During KS3 pupils build on their prior scientific knowledge and understanding and make connections between different areas of science. They use scientific ideas and models to explain phenomena and events and to understand a range of familiar applications of science. They think about the positive and negative effects of scientific and technological developments on the environment. They take into account other pupils views and understand why opinions may differ. They carry out investigations, evaluating their own work. They learn how scientists work together on present day scientific developments and about the importance of experimental evidence in supporting scientific ideas.
The course is divided into 5 key concepts that are taught across the key stage through numerous topics. The 5 key concepts are:
At KS3 each pupil has 6 lessons of science a fortnight. They cover approximately 4 topics a term and are tested at the end of each topic.
The Science department are very proud of our very good success rate with 79% of the 2012 cohort achieving 2 GCSE's or more in science.
All KS4 pupils cover at least 2 GCSE’s. Most pupils will be assigned to either Core Science GCSE or BTEC Principles of Science. In year 11 they progress to study Additional Science GCSE or BTEC Applications of Science. Pupils that obtain a level 6 or above in year 9 can opt to study the three Seperate Sciences, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Core Science
This course encourages pupils to have access to a range of scientific knowledge and skills to stimulate interest and critical thinking. Pupils will be given the opportunity to analyse scientific evidence, develop arguments and draw conclusions to help solve problems. The course requires pupils to master a variety of skills and knowledge and be aware of the impact of Science on today’s society. The course is designed for pupils of all abilities.
It is examined by 3 longer answer 1 hour written exams that take place in March and June of year 10 and a piece of coursework called an Controlled Assessment task (CAT) that takes place in January during lesson times. This is a practical investigation with a 1 hour written test at the end. The written exams account for 75% of the final grade and the CAT for 25%. The pupils will gain their actual GCSE Grade for Core Science in the summer when they are in year 10, before they commence year 11.
Additional Science
This course builds on prior knowledge and skills developed through studying Core Science in year 10. However there is a greater emphasis on explaining phenomena, theorising and using models to explain. Pupils will develop further insight into understanding “How Science Works” and its essential role in society as well as increasing their scientific knowledge and skills. The course is designed for pupils of all abilities.
It is examined by 3, written exams that take place in January and June and a controlled assessment, similar to the one undertaken in year 10.
At the end of year 10 some pupils are selected to take a vocational Science option however this does not allow them to progress to A levels.
Triple Science
Pupils who achieve a level 6, or above in Science are entitled to study the 3 separate Sciences. They will obtain three GCSE’s by completing the Core and Additional GCSE and a further extension module for each discipline. This course is specifically designed for pupils who wish to proceed with Science at higher education. Separate sciences have a very good pass rate for the last 3 years and pupils often achieve a full grade higher than their target grade.
BTEC
This course is 75% coursework and incorporates a 1 hour exam in June worth 25%. Pupils can achieve a pass, merit or distinction. BTEC Science follows the new qualification framework and is therefore equivalent to GCSE Science.
For Core and Additional Science, pupils they are taught 10 lessons a fortnight by 2 teachers. For separate Science pupils are taught 15 times a fortnight by three teachers.
The department is housed on the second floor and is made up of 6 labs and an ICT suite. Lab 6 has interactive equipment to allow remote access for students unable to access the science department directly. All labs have basic scientific equipment and more specialised equipment is housed in the 3 prep rooms.
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