Children develop inquiry skills almost independently from birth, as they begin to make sense of the world around them (Roden et al 2007). At school, during the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1, this natural curiosity can be harnessed through scientific research. Giving students explicit exposure to real-world experiences and phenomena can help conceptualize children's scientific understanding of the world (Harlen & Qualter 2009). These important considerations were taken into account when planning a science inquiry suitable for a key stage 1 context. In this assignment I will analyze a lesson I planned, integrating science teaching with interdisciplinary links with English and mathematics as well. I will examine this inquiry's pedagogical approaches, possible benefits or tensions with interdisciplinary planning and teaching, and their potential impact on learning and teaching. Working in a small group, we planned a scientific investigation into floating and sinking materials, focusing on a mixed methods approach. 1st and 2nd year class setting. The planning objectives were taken from the current National Curriculum (DfEE 1999) and were based on Key Stage 1 Science Unit 1C – Choosing materials for a specific purpose and Unit 2D – Grouping materials. This is defined by the new curriculum as “Everyday Materials; ; year 1 – describe the simple physical properties of a variety of everyday materials” and “year 2 – identify and compare the uses of a variety of everyday materials” (DfE 2013 p.141 & p.146). The lesson plan (see appendix 1) aimed to capitalize on the work that students will have started in reception or in 1st year on flotation and sinking. The progression now would be to consider this in relation to specific materials to solve a problem. I suggested...... middle of paper ......wden1967-1.html#15. [Accessed December 28, 2013]. Raiker, A. (2010). Spoken language and mathematics. Cambridge Journal of Education. [Online] 32 (1), 45-60. Available at: http://www.tandfonline.com.atlas.worc.ac.uk/doi/pdf/10.1080/03057640220116427 [Accessed January 5, 2014]. Roden, J., Ward, H. & Ritchie, H. (2007) Extension of knowledge in practice - Primary sciences. Exeter, Learning Matters Ltd. Rose, J. (2009) Independent Review of the Primary Curriculum: Final Report. [Online] Available at: http://www.educationengland.org.uk/documents/pdfs/2009-IRPC-final-report.pdf. [Accessed December 29, 2013].Waks, L. (2013). John Dewey and the Challenge of Progressive Education. International Journal of Progressive Education. [Online] 9 (1), 73-83. Available at: http://www.tandfonline.com.atlas.worc.ac.uk/doi/pdf/10.1080/03004279.2013.819618 [Accessed 27 December 2013].