CORE

Please note that staff will select students for GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Separate Sciences, according to their suitability.

GCSE Combined Science results in the award of two GCSE grades. It covers three subject areas: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

The course is a linear course and will be assessed at the end of Year 11 through six examinations, two for each subject area and all equally weighted. These will comprise a mixture of multiple choice, structured questions and open response questions. Controlled assessment is no longer a part of the course, however the students will have opportunities to develop their practical skills through the completion of a number of set practical tasks as prescribed by the exam board. These practical tasks may also feature in the final exams.

GCSE Separate Sciences equates to three separate GCSEs: GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics. It follows the same pathway as GCSE Combined Science; however, some of the topics are covered in more depth. The exams for Separate Sciences are also longer to give students the opportunity to demonstrate and apply this deeper knowledge.

The courses are linear and each GCSE will be assessed at the end of Year 11 through two examinations, both equally weighted. These will comprise a mixture of multiple choice, structured questions and open response questions. There is no more controlled assessment; however the practical skills of the students will be developed through the completion of a number of set practical tasks as prescribed by the exam board. These practical tasks may also feature in the final exams.

WEBSITE http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/sciences-

Edexcel GCSE Sciences

GCSE Combined Science

Six written examinations at the end of Year 11.

Each paper is 1hr 10mins.

GCSE Separate Sciences

Two written examinations for each of the three subject areas (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) at the end of Year 11.

Each paper is 1hr 45mins.

Students wishing to study Biology, Chemistry or Physics at A Level will need to achieve a grade 6 or above in Biology, Chemistry or Physics or a grade 6-6 or above in Combined Science in the higher papers.

This provides a clear route to further studies at Universities and Colleges in a variety of science-based courses leading to a wide range of professional careers. The course is suitable for students wishing to follow careers in architecture, biomedical science, botany, dentistry, engineering, farming, forensics, medicine, nursing, nutrition, animal care (veterinary nursing) etc.

Mrs Hickox

Options 2023-2025

POSSIBLE CAREERS AND FURTHER INFORMATION

Core Physical Education encourages a positive attitude to lifelong physical activity and to a healthy, balanced lifestyle. The physical, social and personal skills learnt in individual and team sports lay a foundation for life and provide key skills that employers are looking for.