The Science department currently runs three courses, of which only one is compulsory.

CORE

Taken in year 10 by all pupils and it is worth one GCSE. This comprises 6 Modules, 2 each from Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

B1a – Human Biology

B1b – Environment and Evolution

C1a – Products from Rocks

C1b – Oils, Earth and Atmosphere

P1a – Energy and Electricity

P1b – Universe and Radiation

These are examined by 30 minute long multiple choice question papers, pupils will sit two papers at three times throughout the year – in November, March and June. Pupils will also need to sit an Investigative Skills Assessment (ISA) paper. This replaces the old style coursework, and pupils collect results which they then analyse and evaluate during a 45 minute exam.

ADDITIONAL

Taken in year 11 by approx 70-75% of pupils and is worth one GCSE. This comprises 3 Modules (Biology2, Chemistry2 and Physics2), and is assessed by structured answers papers of 45 minute duration. Pupils can sit exams in January or June. They will also need to sit an Additional ISA.

SEPARATE

This is taken across both years by the more able pupils and those wishing to study science post 16. In order to opt for it pupils should have achieved a Level 6 in their Key Stage Three Science. It is comprised of three modules (Biology3, Chemistry3 and Physics3) and acts to top up work that pupils have completed for their CORE and ADDITIONAL Science so that they can be awarded GCSE's in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. They will also need to have a Biology ISA, a Chemistry ISA and a Physics ISA to complement their examined work (they can use ISA’s from their CORE and ADDITIONAL work so they may only need to complete one extra ISA).

Contact member of staff: Mr R Carter