Cross-disciplinary Learning: Science and Beyond

Establishing links between science and other core subjects offers a consistent and integrated approach to education, encouraging critical thinking skills among primary school students. In instances where it is both possible and beneficial, you could link science with subjects like maths, history, art, and music to create engaging, multifaceted learning experiences that reinforce scientific concepts. 

Science and Maths

Science and maths are inherently intertwined. Mathematical skills are essential for understanding scientific data, conducting experiments and interpreting results. As a teacher, you’ll probably find it easy to integrate these subjects through activities such as drawing a graph to measure plant growth, timing chemical reactions, or calculating the speed of toy cars in an experiment on friction and forces. For example, an activity where pupils build simple machines using levers and pulleys can illustrate principles of physics while applying mathematical concepts like measurement and geometry.

Science and History

History provides context for scientific discoveries and technological advancements. With your class, you could begin projects that trace the evolution of scientific thought and its impact on society. For instance, a lesson on the history of space exploration can include discussions on the scientific principles behind rocketry, the historical context of the Space Race, and its cultural significance. Your pupils might create timelines, research biographies of key scientists, or re-enact historical experiments, blending historical inquiry with scientific exploration. Many of Developing Experts’ lessons include discussions on key historical figures, such as our Year 6 lesson on Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and our KS3 biology lesson on the scientists who developed the DNA model. Depending on your chosen topic, these would be a good starting point. 

Science and Art

Art and science both require observation, creativity and experimentation. Integrating these subjects can make science more accessible and engaging, especially for younger pupils. You could encourage your pupils to draw detailed observations of plant cells or create models of the solar system using various art materials. A project where pupils design posters about environmental conservation can combine scientific knowledge with artistic expression, helping pupils to convey complex ideas through visual storytelling.

Science and Music

Music can be a powerful tool to reinforce scientific concepts. You can use songs to teach scientific vocabulary, processes and cycles. For example, creating songs about the water cycle, photosynthesis or the periodic table can help pupils remember these concepts more easily. Additionally, exploring the science of sound - how vibrations create sound waves, the properties of different musical instruments and the impact of acoustics - can provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that blend music and physics.

Examples of Interdisciplinary Projects

1. Ecosystem models: Pupils research different ecosystems and create detailed 3D models that include plants, animals and environmental factors. This project combines science (ecology), art (model-making) and writing (research reports).
2. Historical Inventions Fair: Pupils choose a historical invention, research its development and present their findings. They can create models or demonstrations to explain the scientific principles behind the invention, blending history and science with public speaking skills.
3. Maths in Nature: Pupils explore patterns in nature, such as the Fibonacci sequence in flowers or the symmetry of leaves. They can collect specimens, take measurements and create art projects that highlight these mathematical patterns found in the natural world.
4. Musical Instrument Creation: Pupils design and build their own musical instruments using recycled materials. This project involves understanding the science of sound, applying engineering principles and expressing creativity through music and design.

Cross-disciplinary learning breaks down the gaps between subjects, making education more dynamic and interconnected. By integrating science with maths, history, art and music, you can create enriching experiences that captivate your pupils’ imaginations and deepen their understanding of the science curriculum.