C Curriculum Explorer
Science·Scientific Inquiry·procedural

Simple tests and experiments

Perform simple tests and use observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions

Suggested ages 5–7

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Learning journey

Your child is learning to be a young scientist — asking questions, making careful observations, recording what they see in simple charts and drawings, and testing ideas to find answers.

Evidence of understanding

  • Carry out a simple test with one thing changing at a time
  • Observe what happens and describe the result
  • Use the result to suggest an answer to the original question

Assessment prompt

Can Simple tests and experiments do a simple experiment — like testing which paper towel absorbs the most water — and use what they find out to answer the question?

Standards alignment

KS1.Sci.WS.3GB · uk-nc-2013

Performing simple tests

The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 1

KS1.Sci.WS.5GB · uk-nc-2013

Suggesting answers to questions

The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 1