About the subject
Science is taught in our newly refurbished laboratories by specialist teachers with a passion for their subject. The study of science fires pupils’ curiosity about phenomena in the world around them and offers opportunities to find explanations. It engages learners at many levels, linking direct practical experience with scientific ideas. Experimentation and modelling are used to develop and evaluate explanations, encouraging critical and creative thought. Pupils learn how knowledge and understanding in science are rooted in evidence. They discover how scientific ideas contribute to technological change – affecting industry, business and medicine and improving quality of life. They trace the development of science worldwide and recognise its cultural significance. They learn to question and discuss issues that may affect their own lives, the directions of societies and the future of the world.
GCSE Science
Students begin their GCSE studies in Year 9. After studying all three sciences a decision is taken towards Christmas of Year 11 as to whether students will be entered for each science individually the combined science. Either way students will sit two papers for each science with those taking the individual sciences sitting longer exam papers.
Combined Scientists study Biology, Chemistry and Physics and sit two exams in each Science in the summer of Year 11. We follow the Trilogy specification.
Link to course website where assessment materials can be found
Individual Scientists study Biology, Chemistry and Physics and sit two exams in each Science in the summer of Year 11.
Link to the course website for Biology
Year 8
The Year 8 Science curriculum is instructed to further build and develop scientific enquiry through skill based learning. Students build upon concepts learned to communicate scientific ideas and conceptual understanding. Year 8 Science content includes a balance of Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics and content.
Year 8 topics of study include: magnets and electromagnets, breathing and digestion, respiration and photosynthesis, periodic table and elements, behaviour of waves, chemical energy, forces, as well as heating and cooling.
AQA KS3 syllabus: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/science/specifications/AQA-SCIENCE-KS3-SYLLABUS.PDF
Year 7
The focus of KS3 Science is for students to develop a range of scientific specific skills and ideas in the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics through scientific enquiry and skills based learning. Students build their understanding of planning and carrying out scientific investigations, taking into account factors when collecting, processing and recording data. Students build upon concepts learned to communicate scientific ideas and conceptual understanding.
Year 7 topics of study include: laboratory skills, cells and movement, particle theory, gravity and speed, voltage resistance and current, acids and alkali, human reproduction, plants and interdependence, energy costs and transfer, as well as Earth structure.
AQA KS3 syllabus: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/science/specifications/AQA-SCIENCE-KS3-SYLLABUS.PDF
