KS4 CURRICULUM BOOKLET

Science

Combined Science: Trilogy

2 GCSE’s level 1/2 Grades 9-1 Curriculum Leader: Mr D. Moth Examination Board: AQA Assessment Requirements 100% examination

There are six papers: two biology, chemistry and physics. Each of the papers will assess knowledge and understanding from distinct topic areas. Each paper is 1 hour and 15 minutes long, and makes up 16.7% of the total GCSE.  Biology paper 1- topics 1–4: Cell Biology; Organisation; Infection and response and Bioenergetics.  Biology paper 2 - topics 5–7: Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation and evolution and Ecology.  Chemistry paper 1 - topics 8–12: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter; Quantitative chemistry; Chemical changes; and Energy changes.  Chemistry paper 2 - topics 13–17: The rate and extent of chemical change; Organic chemistry; Chemical analysis; Chemistry of the atmosphere; and using resources.  Physics paper 1 - topics 18–21: Energy; Electricity; Particle model of matter; and Atomic structure.  Physics paper 2 - topics 22–24: Forces; Waves; and Magnetism and electromagnetism

The papers are a mix of multiple choices, structured, closed short answer and open response questions.

Course Outline GCSE specifications in combined award science should enable students to:

 Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics  Develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them  Develop and learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the field and in other learning environments  Develop their ability to evaluate claims based on science through critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Expectations

Students are expected to be prepared for all lessons and ensure that they take part in all aspects of the course to the best of their ability. There is also a strong emphasis on independent out of class study in order to consolidate and extend understanding of the course.

Career Opportunities

Science is a core subject along with English and Maths and it provides an excellent preparation for further studies in college. A successful Science GCSE grade can lead to sought after careers such as medicine, engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, as well as laboratory work, research and a whole host of other pathways.