Science (Triple Award

2021-2023 Specification: Edexcel GCSE 1BI0 (Biology) 1CH0 (Chemistry) 1PH0 (Physics)

Why Study Science Triple Award?

Those pupils particular aptitude for Science and have shown that they are able to work well independently are encouraged to pursue the Science Triple Award. This requires the study of extension material, in addition to the specification for GCSE Combined Science. Pupils are thereby able to gain three GCSEs grades. This is particularly useful for those students wishing to take the sciences at A Level.

Course Overview

The opportunity to study Science Triple Award is for highly able pupils who have a real interest in all three sciences. The Triple Award involves studying all three separate sciences and thereby gaining three science GCSEs.

The decision to take this option would be made at the end of Year 9, under the guidance and recommendation of the relevant teaching staff. It would mean choosing a science in one of the GCSE option columns.

Assessment Details

All exam papers are taken in the June of Year 11. Each science has two, 1 hour 45 minute papers composed of some multiple choice questions but mainly structured answer questions. Each paper counts as 50% of the overall mark in each GCSE. There is no formal practical assessment but it is expected that a set number of core practicals will be carried out during the two year course.

The papers will be available at Foundation Tier (grades 5-1) and at Higher Tier (grades 9-4).

Additional Opportunities

There is a trip for the Triple Award set, to the ‘Oxford Science Live’ event in Oxford. This is a series of lectures given by leading scientists in their field, many of whom are household names such as Robert Winston or Richard Dawkins.