Science

KS3, Years 7, 8 & 9 Science

In Years 7, 8 and 9 students are exposed to a broad range of science concepts that aim to reinforce and extend prior knowledge and to also prepare them for GCSE study which begins in Year 10. We follow the AQA KS3 syllabus. A variety of exciting and innovative teaching methods are used to deliver the curriculum. These aim to engage and ignite an interest in the subject in all students. Where possible, links to science in the real world are used so that students are more aware of the benefits that ‘mastery’ of the subject can bring.

To support their study, all students are registered with Carousel Learning, where they can use the learning modules to enhance their learning and complete online homework materials. To further support all students, including SEND, as a department we focus on effective teaching principles that includes sequencing science topics logically, building on prior knowledge in sequential small steps. All students will experience a high quality curriculum and all students will be expected to complete the same learning journey, but support, scaffolds and challenge will be provided where necessary to allow all students to access the curriculum appropriately for their needs.

KS4, Year 10 & Year 11 GCSE Science

Students begin their GCSE study of science at the start of Year 10 and complete their course in Year 11 through the sitting of the formal public examinations. The Department delivers the AQA Combined Science Trilogy course at both Foundation and Higher level, and the AQA Separate Sciences at Foundation and Higher level.

The AQA linear science programme offers a traditional route through GCSE Science, with no coursework. It is assessed through six examination papers at both levels.

Throughout the duration of the course, students will be closely monitored to assess their progress and ensure that they are moving towards fulfilling and exceeding their potential. Where necessary, additional support will be offered in a format that is most suited to the individual to assist in realising this potential.

To help all learners, including SEND, to access GCSE content we focus on high quality teaching, alongside the use of a wide range of supportive resources including structured written supports for writing at science GCSE levels, visualisers to decode exam questions and model expected answers in real time, and we script explanations carefully to allow all learners to understand the content at GCSE. We will use exemplar material to help support students with extended writing and required practical methodology, and model planning techniques to help students become independent learners. Through carefully planned retrieval questioning, we hope to build student confidence over time and develop meaningful memory connections to allow all students to recall and understand the key content of the science curriculum. Where exam arrangements are required, including readers, scribes and word processing, we work closely with relevant departments to ensure this provision is provided across the science department.

Useful Weblinks 

Further Reading