SCIENCE

Separate AQA 8461H, 8462H,8463H

Combined AQA 8464 F/H

The AQA specification is followed at GCSE level This encourages learning through practical activities and gives pupils the opportunity to discuss current science issues, including science-based articles presented by the media The science studied is often relevant to our everyday lives and the emphasis in the teaching is on “how we know” rather than “what we know”

Biology, Chemistry and Physics will be studied by all pupils and the curriculum will be delivered by experienced subject specialists Pupils will study interesting and diverse topics such as Genetics, Ecology, Atomic Structure, Rates of Reaction, the Big Bang and Radioactivity

GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy) is studied by the majority of pupils in the Middle Fifth and Upper Fifth, leading to the award of two GCSEs Assessment is through external examinations, comprising structured questions, which will be taken in May and June of the Upper Fifth year These exams will assess both the theory and practical elements of the course There is no coursework element Pupils can be entered for Higher or Foundation papers for GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy) Higher tier pupils can be awarded a Grade 9-9 to Grade 4-4. Foundation tier pupils can be awarded a Grade 5-5 to a Grade 1-1.

Set One pupils will study a more extensive curriculum which will lead to the award of a separate GCSE in each of the three science subjects Assessment