Science is one of the compulsory subjects on the Key Stage 2 national curriculum. As a hands-on subject, many children enjoy learning about science by interacting with the world around them.
In this article, we’ll help you understand what your child will learn in Key Stage 2 science. Keep reading to find out:
Which topics are on the KS2 science curriculum
How to help your child build science skills at home
What is the national curriculum?
The national curriculum is a programme of study for primary and secondary schools in England. State schools teach the same subjects and standards so that children across the country all learn the same things.
The national curriculum is organised into ‘key stages’, which span different age groups. Tests at the end of each key stage assess your child’s performance and understanding of what they have learnt.
Early years: ages 3–5 (nursery and reception)
Key Stage 1: ages 5–7 (years 1–2)
Key Stage 2: ages 7–11 (years 3–6)
Key Stage 3: ages 11–14 (years 7–9)
Key Stage 4: ages 14–16 (years 10–11)
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What’s on the KS2 science curriculum?
Here’s a breakdown of the topics your child will learn on KS2 science national curriculum.
Year 3 science curriculum
Describe the functions of parts of flowering plants
Understand how the requirements for life and growth vary between plants
Investigate how water is transported within plants
Understand the role of flowers, including pollination, seed formation and seed dispersal
Here’s an example of a Year 3 science question on Atom – the online learning platform for ages 7–11.
Year 4 science curriculum
Recognise and use classification to group, identify and name living things in the environment
Understand that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things
Take a look at an example Year 4 science question on Atom.
Year 5 science curriculum
Describe the life cycles of mammals, amphibians, insects and birds
Describe the life process of reproduction in some plants and animals
Here’s a science question appropriate for Year 5 on Atom.
Year 6 science curriculum
Classify microorganisms, plants and animals based on similarities and differences
Give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics
Take a look at a Year 6 science question on Atom below.
Year 3 & Year 4 science worksheets
Download free English, maths and science worksheets to support your child's learning! Includes Year 3 and 4 science worksheets covering:
Plants
Animals including humans
How is KS2 science tested?
Key Stage 2 science is no longer formally tested. Only English and maths are tested in Year 6 SATs.
Instead, your child’s scientific knowledge and skills will be assessed by their class teacher. They will look at whether your child is working at the expected standard in each topic. This information is usually available in your child’s school report.
KS2 science experiments to try at home
Here are some practical activities you and your child can try at home!
1. Plants: experimenting with flowers
In this activity, your child will need to identify and describe the functions of different parts of flowering plants. They will see how the relationship works between structure and function. They will observe the way that water is transported in plants.
White flowers (white carnations work well)
Food colouring (a variety of colours)
Drinking glasses
Water
A spoon
A pair of scissors
A kitchen knife
2. Changing materials: make bath bombs
In this activity, your child will learn how some changes are irreversible and result in the formation of new materials. They will observe what a chemical change looks like.
Food colouring
Flower petals or biodegradable body glitter
Sweet almond oil
A scented oil of your choice (e.g. lavender)
A small glass jar
A muffin tin
Bicarbonate of soda
Citric acid
Two large bowls
Rubber gloves
A tablespoon
3. Gravity-defying magnets
In this experiment, your child will learn how magnetic forces can act at a distance and how they attract or repel each other.
A stick
String
Paperclips
A pair of scissors
Tale
Strong magnets
A metal ruler
A few books
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