Science

Substantive Knowledge

1. All material in the universe is made of very small particles
2. Objects can affect other objects at a distance
3. Changing the movement of an object requires a net force to be acting on it
4. The total amount of energy in the universe is always the same but energy can be transformed when things change or are made to happen
5. The composition of the Earth and its atmosphere and the processes occurring within them shape the Earth’s surface and its climate
6. The solar system is a very small part of one of millions of galaxies in the Universe
7. Organisms are organised on a cellular basis
8. Organisms require a supply of energy and materials for which they are often dependent on or in competition with other organisms
9. Genetic information is passed down from one generation of organisms to another
10. The diversity of organisms, living and extinct, is the result of evolution.

Disciplinary Knowledge           

11. Designing Experiments (Variables, Methods, Apparatus, Hazards)
12. Data Analysis (Constructing Tables, Means, Significant Figures, Plotting Graphs)
13. Evaluations (Errors, Anomalies, Uncertainty)
14. Data Interpretation (Conclusions from Tables and Graphs)

Our team of experienced, specialist science teachers have designed an inspiring programme of study to deliver the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum to enthuse and challenge pupils to learn and achieve in their first three years; mastering the fundamental knowledge, understanding and skills needed for GCSE-level success and beyond. Careers are actively taught throughout KS3 allowing pupils to learn understand where their knowledge could lead them in the future.

ASSESSMENT

Pupils in year 7, 8 and 9 are formally assessed twice in each topic allowing teachers to identify gaps in knowledge and misconceptions effectively, and adapt teaching to meet the needs of pupils. All assessments include knowledge from prior topics, so constant review allows pupils to remember more.

Pupils will follow one of two pathways through GCSE: Combined (Trilogy) Science leading to 2 GCSE qualifications or Single Sciences in Biology, Chemistry and Physics leading to 3 GCSE qualifications. Pupils wishing to study single sciences opt at the end of year 9 and receive an additional 5 hours of teaching time to cover the content in greater depth.

ASSESSMENT

Each qualification is terminally assessed meaning all exams are taken at the end of Year 11.  Science qualifications are assessed via 100% examination; there is no coursework element.  Pupils over 2 years of GCSE study will complete a series of required practical tasks and these will be assessed within the examination papers.

In year 10 and 11 pupils as assessed via cumulative assessments throughout the year in each science discipline.  Performance on these is compared against target grades to assess if a pupil is making appropriate progress. All assessments include knowledge from prior topics, so constant review allows pupils to remember more.

All students will sit 6 science exams at the end of year 11: two biology exams, two chemistry exams and two physics exams covering all the content of the GCSE course.  Combined science pupils sit 6 x 1 hour 15 minute papers; single science pupils sit 6 x 1 hour 45 minutes.

The science department offers students the chance to study A level Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, as well as BTEC Level 3 qualifications in AAQ Medical Science, and NQF Applied Science (Year 13 Only).

ASSESSMENT

A level Science – Each qualification is terminally assessed meaning all exams are taken at the end of Year 13. This is done through 3 x 2 hour exams.  Pupils will also complete a series of required practicals during their course of study and their skills be assessed to allow them to gain an extra qualification in practical skills.

BTEC Applied Science and BTEC Medical Science is assessed in a range of ways throughout the course, combining results from exams, written course work and practical skills assessments.