Science

In science we aim to nurture the curiosity of our students so that they are scientifically literate and ready to participate in the rich experiences available to them when they finish school. Science is taught by enthusiastic and very knowledgeable subject specialists. We are a vibrant, academic department and encourage all of our learners to achieve their best through an exciting curriculum that builds a body of knowledge of the big ideas in science. The study of science is essential for many careers and we equip our learners with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the future. Over half of all students in the sixth form choose to study at least one science course.

Key Stage 3

In Years 7 and 8 all students follow a programme of study that is based upon the National curriculum. The course is designed to be activity and practical based to make the learning both relevant and fun. Students learn how to conduct practical work safely and methodically whilst investigating scientific principles then forming their own conclusions. Students develop the necessary skills and scientific understanding to prepare them for their Science GCSEs in KS4.

Year 7

· Cells

· Particles

· Energy

· Reproduction

· Acids

· Electricity

· Mixtures

· Variation

· Forces

· Atoms and elements

· Sound

Year 8

· Combustion

· Food and nutrition

· Periodic table

· Fluids

· Breathing / respiration

· Light

· Energy transfers

· Metals and their uses

· Unicellular organisms

· Earth and space

· Plant reproduction

· Rocks

Year 9

In preparation for GCSE in Year 10 all of the topics in Years 7 and 8 are developed further in Year 9. .

Key Stage 4

Most students follow GCSE Combined Science Trilogy which will lead to 2 GCSE qualifications. Students will be taught by 3 staff specialising in Chemistry, Physics and Biology. They build on concepts met during Key Stage 3. The exam board is AQA and students study the units listed below from Year 9 to Year 11. Students will also complete 28 required practical tasks as part of the GCSE course. They will be assessed on practical skills in their GCSE papers.

Biology

· 1. Cell biology

· 2. Organisation

· 3. Infection and response

· 4. Bioenergetics

· 5. Homeostasis and response

· 6. Inheritance, variation and evolution

· 7. Ecology

Chemistry

· 8. Atomic structure and the periodic table

· 9. Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter

· 10. Quantitative chemistry

· 11. Chemical changes

· 12. Energy changes

· 13. The rate and extent of chemical change

· 14. Organic chemistry

· 15. Chemical analysis

· 16. Chemistry of the atmosphere

· 17. Using resources

Physics

· 18. Energy

· 19. Electricity

· 20. Particle model of matter

· 21. Atomic structure

· 22. Forces

· 23. Waves

· 24. Magnetism and electromagnetism

Combined Science GCSE prepares students fully for further study at A level or BTEC Applied Science.

Exam Board:

For further details please visit: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464

Key Stage 5

Students opt to study either combinations of science subjects at A-Level or BTEC Applied Science. For detail of the A-Level subjects please see the relevant science page (biology/chemistry/physics).

We offer BTEC Level 3 National Diploma Applied Science. The course is equivalent to 2 A-Levels. Applied Science deepens students understanding of key concepts in biology, chemistry and physics. It has a strong focus on the applications of these concepts in industry and medicine. The course prepare students for further study and careers in the Applied Science sector.

Exam Board:
For further details please visit:

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-nationals/applied-science-2016.html

For further information about the science curriculum please contact: Mr D Greenslade

Head of Science Department