In light of the changes to the Key Stage 4 National Curriculum, September 2006
saw the introduction of a new and exciting programme of study for KS4 Science.
The new GCSE Science specification will encourage you to:
- develop your interest in, and enthusiasm for, science
- develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods
- acquire and apply skill, knowledge and understanding of how science works and its essential role in society
- acquire scientific skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for progression to further learning
- The GCSE Science course comprises of three specifications:
- GCSE Core Science
- GCSE Additional Science
- GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Triple)
Both the Core and Additional Science lead to the traditional Double Award
qualification, i.e. 2 GCSEs.
All the courses are taught by specialist teachers allowing you to achieve a firm grounding in each Science subject.
You will initially receive a grade for Core Science and will later achieve a separate grade for Additional Science leading to the traditional Double Award qualification, e.g. AB or AA, which is equivalent to two GCSE grades.
There is also the option of Triple Award Science (3 separate GCSE qualifications) for students recommended by the Head of Department. This will add further studies to the Core and Additional units, which will result in a separate award being given for each science studied.
Assessment Models
GCSE Science Coursework makes up 25% of the course and is needed for
each award. Core Science has multiple choice Module Tests and the other
awards have questions requiring a more structured written response.
The Examination Group and Specification number
DOUBLE AWARD:
AQA Core Science A (4461) and AQA Additional Science (4463)
TRIPLE AWARD:
AQA Science: Biology (4411) AQA Science: Chemistry (4421)
AQA Science: Physics (4451)
Syllabus Content
Double Award [Core (1) & Additional (2)]
BIOLOGY 1 & 2 CHEMISTRY 1 & 2 PHYSICS 1 & 2
In addition, Triple Award [Separate Science (3)] pupils study the following extension material:
Science BTEC
This course is for those students who prefer a more practically based Science course with the emphasis on scientific knowledge and application in the modern workplace.
There are two courses available:-
4 GCSE equivalent to Grade C and above
2 GCSE equivalent to Grade C and above
All students following this route will start the 4 GCSE course. There are aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and other sciences. The course is wholly internally assessed; there are no examinations.
Year One
- Unit 3 – Chemistry Applications (60 GLH)
- Unit 4 – Physical Science Applications (60 GLH)
- Unit 5 – Biological Systems (60 GLH)
Year Two
- Unit 1 – Scientific Principles (60 GLH)
- Unit 2 – Science and the World of Work (60 GLH)
- Unit 10 –Option choice (60 GLH)
For more information, please see Mr Evans in the science department