Welcome to the official First Term Scheme of Work for Primary 3 Basic Science, developed in line with the NERDC curriculum and tailored specifically for Nigerian schools. This scheme serves as a comprehensive roadmap for educators and parents who are committed to fostering scientific awareness and physical development in young learners. It provides a structured weekly breakdown of topics that span key scientific and health-related concepts appropriate for Primary 3 pupils.
The first term introduces learners to essential concepts such as movement, body parts, manipulative skills, and safety measures. Pupils begin with topics like body movement and types of locomotion, helping them understand how their bodies function and how to use them effectively. Lessons on personal hygiene, sanitation, and clean water introduce health awareness from an early stage. Through hands-on demonstrations and visual aids, teachers can reinforce these ideas in practical and engaging ways.
Physical education components are also integrated into the scheme, covering activities such as running, jumping, and basic athletic drills. These exercises are not only vital for physical development but also enhance pupils’ coordination, balance, and teamwork. Teachers are encouraged to use open spaces, simple sporting materials, and songs or chants to make the sessions lively and interactive.
This scheme supports a holistic teaching approach that combines observation, experimentation, and active participation. It allows pupils to explore science using real-life examples and simple tools they can relate to. Parents can follow along by encouraging outdoor play, personal hygiene routines, and storytelling about the human body and environment.
By following the weekly structure in this scheme, schools can ensure consistent delivery of key learning outcomes. The Primary 3 Basic Science First Term Scheme promotes curiosity, discipline, and health consciousness, laying a strong foundation for future scientific thinking and physical education.
Full Scheme of Work: Primary 3 Basic Science (First Term)
| Week | Topic | Learning Objectives |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Movement: Movement of Body Parts | – Demonstrate correct patterns of movement (leaping, hopping, running, stepping).- Perform manipulative movements (catching, throwing, striking).- Identify safety rules in movements. |
| Week 2 | Moving Our Body Parts | – Describe and demonstrate correct movement patterns.- State basic movement patterns. |
| Week 3 | Movement: Throwing | – Demonstrate proper object throwing.- Identify safety rules in throwing activities (e.g., ball). |
| Week 4 | Movement: Catching | – Catch objects correctly.- Demonstrate catching techniques.- Describe manipulative catching and striking. |
| Week 5 | Safety in Movement | – Explain safety rules in movements.- Describe safety in manipulative activities.- Identify playground rules. |
| Week 6 | Sports and Games: Athletics | – Explain athletics and short-distance races.- Demonstrate 50m dash.- State health benefits of running. |
| Week 7 | Continuous Assessment / Mid-Term Break | – Continuous assessment and break. |
| Week 8 | Sports and Games: Long Distance Races | – State and demonstrate types of long-distance races.- Describe activities and safety rules in long-distance races. |
| Week 9 | Athletics: Jump | – Define simple jumps.- Perform athletic jumps.- State safety rules in jumping. |
| Week 10 | Revision | – Review and reinforce topics from Weeks 1–9. |
| Week 11 | Revision | – Continued revision. |
| Week 12 | Examination | – End-of-term exam to assess comprehension and practical knowledge. |
Why This Scheme of Work Matters
This scheme provides a structured approach that supports Primary 3 learners in developing both physical and basic science abilities. Through carefully planned lessons involving movement, games, and athletics, pupils are guided to explore their environment while building strength, balance, and control. The scheme ensures a consistent teaching plan across Nigerian schools, making it easier for teachers to follow a clear and progressive sequence of weekly lessons.
Each topic is designed to match pupils’ developmental stages, helping them grasp key science concepts through observation and interaction. Physical education elements, such as simple athletics and play-based activities, enhance motor skills, promote healthy habits, and encourage social interaction. These activities not only make learning fun but also teach children the importance of teamwork, fair play, and safety.
By aligning closely with the national NERDC curriculum, the scheme promotes uniformity in what is taught, ensuring that no key learning area is left out. It also supports early preparation for future exams and academic milestones by fostering critical thinking and practical application of basic science principles. Pupils learn to relate what they study to real-life situations, which strengthens retention and builds curiosity.
Overall, this scheme builds confidence and coordination in young learners by combining academic structure with practical activities. It lays a strong foundation for scientific literacy and physical development, equipping pupils with the skills they need to excel in school and daily life.
Tips for Effective Use
Use visual aids and simple sports equipment to make each lesson more interactive and engaging for pupils. Diagrams, charts, and illustrations can help children understand basic science concepts, while balls, cones, and skipping ropes can bring physical activities to life.
Incorporate group activities and friendly competitions to encourage teamwork and boost participation. Pupils often learn better when working together and enjoying healthy challenges that build coordination and sportsmanship.
Always prioritize safety during physical movement lessons. Ensure that learning spaces are clear, equipment is safe, and pupils understand the rules of each activity. Teach children how to avoid injuries by warming up properly and following instructions carefully.
Track individual performance and progress regularly. Use simple checklists and observation to record how each pupil participates, improves, and grasps scientific and physical concepts. This will support your Continuous Assessment and help identify learners who need extra guidance.
Conclusion
This NERDC-aligned scheme is an essential tool for teachers and schools aiming to deliver effective and engaging Primary 3 Basic Science lessons during the First Term. With clear objectives and structured weekly content, the scheme provides a dependable framework that supports both teaching and learning success. It encourages the use of interactive strategies, promotes safety, and ensures pupils build strong physical and scientific skills. By following this guide, educators can create an inclusive classroom experience that nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and prepares learners for lifelong learning.
