Science
“I think the greatest achievements of science is to allow humanity to realise that our world is
comprehensible. Through science, rational thinking, we can understand how the universe works.”
Jim Al-Khalili
What is the aim/vision for this subject?
We want our students to be equipped with a rational and scientific approach, by showing students that Science is not just a body of knowledge, but a way of thinking. Students develop
their scientific literacy to make sense of their interactions and applications with the world around them and to aid them in their future learning and careers. By being able to build up a core body of knowledge and concepts, students are encouraged to recognise the importance of rational explanations and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena.
How is the Key Stage 3 Science Curriculum implemented?
The KS3 Science course organises and develops the big ideas and concepts of the programme of study into clear objectives giving students an enriching, engaging and challenging curriculum across the Key Stage, dovetailing into the Key Stage 4 programme of Study.
KS3 Topics Studied:
The Programme of Study in Science at Alde Valley Academy will give students the opportunities to:
Develop practical competency by working scientifically;
Articulate scientific concepts clearly and precisely;
Achieve their potential and enable them to further their understanding of science through further study;
Remedy misconceptions;
Understanding the nature, processes and methods of science;
Understanding the uses and implications of science today and for the future;
To accurately read and interpret scientific terminology;
To use problem solving skills and numeracy within Scientific concepts.
What is GCSE Science?
In Year 10 all students study a GCSE Science course, with students either following a single or combined course pathway. The Single Science pathway has students study separate Sciences and gain 3 GCSEs. The combined science pathway has students study all sciences but gain 2 GCSEs. Students may follow an entry level pathway which could be accredited with a single or double award. Science staff will decide the most appropriate course for each individual.
Who might enjoy this course?
Skills
developed
developed
Analytical skills, investigative and research skills, organisational skills, problem solving, report writing and understanding statistical data.
What about exams? What will I study?
Students following either a single or double pathway complete a number of required practicals in each subject area throughout the 2 years. Students’ understanding is assessed as part of their final written exam. Students will complete 6 exams: 2 exams for Biology, 2 for Chemistry and 2 for Physics, each worth 16.7% of the final award. There are two tiers of Entry for GCSE Science – Foundation or Higher
Pupils following Entry level pathways will complete 6 subject content areas from Biology, Physics and Chemistry. Students will be assessed using External Set Assignments, which are similar to end of topic tests, and Internally Set Assignments which will be GCSE Required Practicals. This course will be co-taught with GCSE Science and students may gain a single or double Science
What could I do next with GCSE Science?
A grade of at least a 4 in GCSE Science is required for Higher Education. Many apprenticeships starting at age 16 value the skills learned from following a science course. Many university courses in technical subjects require A Level Sciences.