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Separate Science
3 GCSEs Level 1/2 grades 1-9
GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Curriculum Leader: Mr D. Moth
Examination Board:
Assessment Requirements
The separate science pathway allows students to achieve three individual GCSEs in
Science: Physics, Biology and Chemistry. Students are required to study and be examined
in all 3 Sciences. Each GCSE is examined by two written exam papers; the papers are
worth 50% of the GCSE each. The papers are 1 hour and 45 minutes long.
- 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; Topics 1–5: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Bonding, structure, and
the properties of matter; Quantitative chemistry, Chemical changes; and Energy changes.
- Chemistry paper 2; Topics 6–10: The rate and extent of chemical change; Organic chemistry;
Chemical analysis, Chemistry of the atmosphere; and Using resources.
- Physics paper 1; Topics 1–4: Energy; Electricity; Particle model of matter; and Atomic
structure.
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Physics paper 2; Topics 5–8: Forces; Waves; Magnetism and electromagnetism; and Space
physics. Questions in Paper 2 may draw on an understanding of energy changes and transfers
due to heating, mechanical and electrical work and the concept of energy conservation from
Energy and Electricity.
The papers are a mix of multiple choices, structured, closed short answer and open
response questions.
Course Outline
The aims of these three GCSE specifications are to encourage candidates 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 courses 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
courses. All Triple Science students will be aiming to complete the higher tier exams and
to gain a higher grade pass.
Career Opportunities
:
Triple Sciences provide a preparation for further study in science, leading to degree level
study or careers such as medicine, engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, as well as
laboratory work, research and many others.