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KS3: Science

Statement of Inquiry

HSW: The relationships between the world and scientific principles, may through carrying out processes create patterns and provide evidence to create solutions through Scientific research.

Matter: How models can show the interactions and patterns, and how changes in energy may lead to an understanding of the world and its particles.

Key Concepts

HSW (Relationships), Matter (Change)

Assessment Criteria

B, C (HSW), A (Matter)

ATLs

  • Write for different purposes
  • Draw reasonable conclusions and generalisations

Links to Prior Learning

Pupils should have covered the following skills for investigations in KS2: planning different types of scientific enquiries to answer questions, including recognising and controlling variables where necessary, taking measurements, using a range of scientific equipment, with increasing accuracy and precision, taking repeat readings when appropriate, recording data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys, tables, scatter graphs, bar and line graphs, using test results to make predictions to set up further comparative and fair tests, reporting and presenting findings from enquiries, including conclusions, causal relationships and explanations of and degree of trust in results, in oral and written forms such as displays and other presentations, identifying scientific evidence that has been used to support or refute ideas or arguments.

Statement of Inquiry

Organisation – Understanding how identities are formed from different systems could lead to an exploration of how lifestyle choices and environmental factors may affect the wellbeing of a person.

Earth: Exploring how Earth changes and understanding the connections between interactions and their consequences may lead to a greater knowledge of the impact of decision making on humankind and the environment.

Key Concepts

Organisms (Systems). Earth (Change)

Assessment Criteria

Earth A, Organism D

ATLs

  • Consider ideas from multiple perspectives
  • Identify trends and forecast possibilities

Links to Prior Learning

Organisms KS2: recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide information about living things that inhabited the Earth millions of years ago recognise that living things produce offspring of the same kind, but normally offspring vary and are not identical to their parents identify how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution.describe the simple functions of the basic parts of the digestive system in humans identify the different types of teeth in humans and their simple functions construct and interpret a variety of food chains, identifying producers, predators and prey

Earth KS2: During KS2 students should have covered the following and be able to: Describe the movement of Earth and other planets, compare and group together different kinds of rocks on the basis of their appearance and simple physical properties, explore different kinds of rocks and soils; classifying rocks according to whether they have grains or crystals and whether they have fossils in them.

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding the relationships between the interaction of objects and their environment could lead to a greater understanding of the world we live in.

Key Concepts

Relationships

Assessment Criteria

D

ATLs

  • Use and interpret a range of discipline-specific terms and symbols
  • Design improvements to existing machines, media and technologies

Links to Prior Learning

KS2 links – Forces (NC): compare how things move on different surfaces, notice that some forces need contact between 2 objects, but magnetic forces can act at a distance, explain that unsupported objects fall towards the Earth because of the force of gravity acting between the Earth and the falling object, identify the effects of air resistance, water resistance and friction, that act between moving surfaces, recognise that some mechanisms, including levers, pulleys and gears, allow a smaller force to have a greater effect

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding the patterns in changes and how changes interact could lead to an understanding of the different consequences on a global scale to provide sustainable solutions in industry.

Key Concepts

Change

Assessment Criteria

B, C

ATLs

  • Access information to be informed and inform others

Links to Prior Learning

Learned about physical changes in term 1- Matter. KS2 links – living things and their habitats (NC), Recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things. KS2 links – states of matter (NC), compare and group materials together, according to whether they are solids, liquids or gases observe that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled, and measure or research the temperature at which this happens in degrees Celsius (°C), KS2 links – properties and changes of materials (NC), demonstrate that dissolving, mixing and changes of state are reversible changes explain that some changes result in the formation of new materials, and that this kind of change is not usually reversible, including changes associated with burning and the action of acid on bicarbonate of soda.

Statement of Inquiry

Students will evidence relationships between the natural world and its laws and by identifying interactions may lead to an exploration of these systems, models and processes present in the world around them.

Key Concepts

Relationships

Assessment Criteria

A

ATLs

  • Collect and analyse data to identify solutions and make informed decisions

Links to Prior Learning

Builds on learning on energy and forces from term 3. KS2 links – Forces (NC), Students should be able to recognise light is needed to see things and that light is reflected from surfaces., Students should be able to describe magnets as having two poles and predict whether magnets will repel or attract, Students should be able to identify common appliances that run on electricity, construct a simple series circuit and identify basic electrical components.

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding how systems and their interactions could provide evidence for the transitions that may affect physical, psychological and social development.

Key Concepts

Systems

Assessment Criteria

A

ATLs

  • Use appropriate strategies for organising complex information

Links to Prior Learning

Recognise that living things have changed over time and that fossils provide, information about living things that inhabited the Earth millions of years ago, recognise that living things produce offspring of the same kind, but normally offspring, vary and are not identical to their parents, identify how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different, ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution.

Statement of Inquiry

The relationship between forms and how this transfers to different systems and models may lead to creative solutions to problems in the natural world.

Key Concepts

Relationships

Assessment Criteria

A

ATLs

  • Interpret data
  • Draw reasonable conclusions and generalisations

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 1 – Matter

Statement of Inquiry

How changing conditions, may lead to evidence to support advances in scientific methods.

Key Concepts

Change

Assessment Criteria

B, C

ATLs

  • Make inferences and draw conclusions

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 4 – Chemical Reactions

Statement of Inquiry

The function of scientific principles and the changes they make; may lead to further developments in engineering.

Key Concepts

Change

Assessment Criteria

D

ATLs

  • Present information in a variety of formats and platforms

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 3 – Forces and Energy

Statement of Inquiry

How the forming ethical and moral judgements may lead to a change in the human body and transform opinions on physical health.

Key Concepts

Change

Assessment Criteria

D

ATLs

  • Formulate factual, topical, conceptual and debatable questions

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 2 – Organisms

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding systems and their functions, may link to further evidence to support advances in communication and technology.

Key Concepts

Systems

Assessment Criteria

A

ATLs

  • Organise and depict information logically

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 5 – Waves and Electromagnetism

Statement of Inquiry

How systems present in the natural environment may lead to a greater understanding of the interactions in the natural world.

Key Concepts

Systems

Assessment Criteria

B, C

ATLs

  • Practise observing carefully in order to recognize problems

Links to Prior Learning

Year 7 Module 2 – Organisms
Year 7 Module 6 – Lifecycles

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding systems and their models and how we interpret the world in which we live and forming opportunities to take responsibility for our environment.

Particles – How relationships and interactions of particles lead to scientific and technical innovations

Key Concepts

Systems

Particles – Change

Assessment Criteria

Criterion D. Analysing pre-release material and planning their resources on worksheets. Reference their work.

ATLs

  • Share ideas with multiple audiences using a variety of digital environments and media
  • Understand and use mathematical notation

Links to Prior Learning

Year 8 Module 4 – Organisms
Year 8 Module 1 – Matter
Year 8 Module 3 – Forces

Statement of Inquiry

Cell transport – How our understanding of movement and functions may lead to relating change to evolution and adaptations.

Atoms- Understanding the key relationships between the systems, models and methods, may lead to recognition of patterns around the world.

Key Concepts

Cell transport – Change

Atoms- Relationships

Assessment Criteria

Cell transport – B inquiring and designing an investigation; C processing and evaluating results

Atoms- 1.describe scientific knowledge, ii. apply scientific knowledge and understanding to solve problems set in familiar and unfamiliar situations. iii. analyse information to make scientifically supported judgments.

ATLs

  • Consider content – What did I learn about today? – What don’t I yet understand? – What questions do I have now?
  • Practise observing carefully in order to recognize problems

Links to Prior Learning

Year 8 Module 1 – Matter
Year 8 Module 2 – Chemical Reactions

Statement of Inquiry

Enzymes – Understanding systems and their functions, using models, may help us make sense of the world in which we live.

Bonding – Understanding change and form and how this may lead to impacts on scientific and technological advances in systems through inquiry into models and products.

Key Concepts

Enzymes – Systems

Bonding – Change

Assessment Criteria

Enzymes – A – Knowledge and understanding

Bonding – Criterion D

 

ATLs

  • Create original works and ideas; use existing works and ideas in new ways
  • Access information to be informed and inform others

Links to Prior Learning

Year 8 Module 4 – Organisms
Year 8 Module 6 – Ecosystems
Year 8 Module 1 – Matter
Year 8 Module 2 – Reactions

Statement of Inquiry

Understanding systems and their functions, using models, may help us make sense of the world in which we live.

Health and Disease – Understanding interactions within systems may lead to recognising the relationship between lifestyle choices and our health and wellbeing.

Circuits – How the relationships and interactions of energy may support planning of urban infrastructure.

Key Concepts

Health and Disease – Systems

Circuits – Relationships

Assessment Criteria

Health and Disease – B inquiring and designing an investigation; C processing and evaluating results

Circuits – Criterion A – Knowledge and understanding

ATLs

  • Identify obstacles and challenges
  • Process data and report results

Links to Prior Learning

Year 8 Module 4 – Organisms
Year 7 Module 5 – Electricity
Year 8 Module 4 – Electromagnetism

Statement of Inquiry

Studying transformations may lead to a deeper development and understanding of existing systems and models.

Key Concepts

Systems

Assessment Criteria

Criterion A – Knowledge and understanding

ATLs

  • Test generalisations and conclusions

Links to Prior Learning

Year 8 Module 6 – Ecosystems

Statement of Inquiry

Key Concepts

Assessment Criteria

ATLs

Links to Prior Learning

KS4: GCSE Triple Science

Vision Statement

In Triple Science pupils receive three GCSE’s, one each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

In Science we have developed a bespoke GCSE course designed to challenge our pupils thinking and expose them to a variety of scientific and real world contexts. Pupils will develop essential scientific skills such as collecting and manipulating data, planning and completing practical investigations, as well as deep thinking and evaluating scientific theories. We expect all pupils to fully apply themselves in class and take a proactive role in lessons. Pupils will build resilience, enabling them to confidently ask for support to make outstanding progress. We want pupils to be as enthusiastic about science as our teachers are, and to pursue further study and careers within this subject.

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

Pupils will be assessed in May and June of Year 11 with two examinations in each of the three Sciences

These examinations consist of short, structured multiple choice and open response questions, which be based around subject knowledge and practical skills

Triple Science: 6 written examinations – 1hr45 each.

Biology

Cell Biology, Organisation, Infections, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis, Inheritance, Variation, Evolution and Ecology

Atomic Structure, Bonding, Properties of Matter, Chemical & Energy Change, Organic Chemistry and the Atmosphere

Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, Magnetism, Particles, Atomic Structure and Space

Linked Sixth Form Courses:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Applied Science
  • Mathematics
  • Sport Studies

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Engineering
  • Medicinal Sciences
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Laboratory supervisor
  • Geology 
  • Botany
  • Physiotherapy

 

Departmental Performance:

2021/22: 9-4 = 97%

2020/21: 9-4 = 95%

2019/20: 9-4 = 100%

KS4: GCSE Combined Science

Vision Statement

The Science department works hard to provide every pupil with the opportunity to be successful in completing their Science GCSE’s. In Combined Science pupils will receive two Science GCSE’s (a combination of Biology, Chemistry and Physics).

In Science we have developed a bespoke GCSE course designed to challenge our pupils thinking and expose them to a variety of scientific and real world contexts. Pupils will develop essential scientific skills such as collecting and manipulating data, planning and completing practical investigations, as well as deep thinking and evaluating scientific theories. We expect all pupils to fully apply themselves in class and take a proactive role in lessons. Pupils will build resilience, enabling them to confidently ask for support to make outstanding progress. We want pupils to be as enthusiastic about science as our teachers are, and to pursue further study and careers within this subject. 

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

Pupils will be assessed in May and June of Year 11 with two examinations in each of the three Sciences

These examinations consist of short, structured multiple choice and open response questions, which be based around subject knowledge and practical skills

Combined Science: 6 written examinations – 1hr45 each.

Biology

Cell Biology, Organisation, Infections, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis, Inheritance, Variation, Evolution and Ecology

Atomic Structure, Bonding, Properties of Matter, Chemical & Energy Change, Organic Chemistry and the Atmosphere

Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, Magnetism, Particles, Atomic Structure and Space

Linked Sixth Form Courses:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Applied Science
  • Mathematics
  • Sport Studies

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Engineering
  • Medicinal Sciences
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Laboratory supervisor
  • Geology 
  • Botany
  • Physiotherapy

 

Departmental Performance:

2021/22: 9-4 = 72%

2020/21: 9-4 = 71%

2019/20: 9-4 = 69%

KS5: BTEC Applied Science

Vision Statement

This course is designed for learners who are interested in progressing into a wide range of courses related to science beyond KS5. The BTEC will build on the foundations of scientific knowledge that were developed in the GCSE course and then progress to an advanced level application.

As a level 3 course the 2 year extended certificate is equal to an A-level science in terms of UCAS points and recognised by a number of large universities. Throughout the course pupils will make clear links between the key concepts that they are learning to the possible career pathways they could choose. It will offer opportunities to develop broader skills while completing practical work in all three sciences. Pupils will gain experimental techniques that are valued in a number of professions in and out of the scientific world.

In a world where infinite information is always at our fingertips, pupils will gain the skills to think critically, evaluate different sources in the media and become more reflective about the overload of information they are exposed to.  Throughout the course pupils will make links between the scientific knowledge and facts and how they relate to global contexts in the world we live in.

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science

The topic areas covered include; animal and plant cells; tissues; atomic structure and bonding; chemical and physical properties of substances related to their uses; waves and their application in communication. Assessed in a 2 hour exam.

This unit introduces standard laboratory equipment and techniques, including titration, colorimetry, calorimetry, concentrations, cooling curves and different methods of chromatography. This unit is assessed through the completion of coursework.

Pupils will develop essential skills underpinning practical scientific investigations, relating the knowledge and skills learned in units 1 and 2 to provide different contexts including enzymes, diffusion and electrical circuits. Assessed in a 2 hour 15 minute exam

Throughout this unit pupils will focus on three main body systems: musculoskeletal, lymphatic and digestive. Pupils will identify the structure and functions of each through experimentation and simulations. This unit is assessed through the completion of coursework.

Skills for Success:

  • Enquiry and problem solving-skills
  • Strong literacy skills in order to develop longer answers to explain scientific concepts in detail
  • Research skills in order to investigate experimental techniques independently

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Healthcare (nursing, midwifery etc.)
  • Forensic science
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Sports science
  • Environmental studies
  • Engineering
  • Scientific journalism

Departmental Performance:

2022/23:  D*- P = 100%

2021/22: D*-M = 86% / D* – P = 100%

2020/21: D*- M = 75% / D* – P = 88%

KS5: A Level Biology

Vision Statement

A-level biology is an academically rigorous course that will engage pupils with an interest in the living world and how organisms function and survive. Pupils will develop their practical skills alongside their scientific knowledge through the completion of required practical. Biology is at the forefront of both exciting and controversial developments in the scientific world and pupils will explore the benefits, risks and implications of a variety of techniques such as genetic engineering.

Throughout the course pupils will develop their literacy, numeracy, critical thinking skills and ability to apply their knowledge to unknown contexts. By completing the A-level Biology course we are enabling students to become more informed and reflective members of society. This course will provide opportunities to continue their studies in a number of university and  career pathways.

Skills for Success:

  • Enquiry and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong literacy skills in order to develop longer answers to explain Scientific concepts in detail.
  • Numeracy skills to complete advanced level calculations including data analysis and algebra

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

The course will cover a broad range of topics separated into six modules/units:

  1. Development of practical skills in biology:  Planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.
  2. Foundations in biology: Cells, membranes, organisation, biological molecules and enzymes.
  3. Exchange and transport: Exchange surfaces, transport in animals and transport in plants.
  4. Biodiversity, evolution and disease: Disease and the immune system, biodiversity, classification and evolution.
  5. Communication, homeostasis and energy: Communication, homeostasis, excretion, hormones, the nervous system, plant and animal responses, photosynthesis and respiration.
  6. Genetics, evolution and ecosystems: Cellular control, inheritance, genetic engineering, biotechnology, cloning, ecosystems and sustainability.

Three exams will be sat at the end of year 13:

  • Paper 1 – 37%
    Biological Processes (modules 1, 2, 3 and 5)
    Exam length: 2 hours 15 mins
  • Paper 2 – 37%
    Biological Diversity (modules 1, 2, 4 and 6)
    Exam length: 2 hours 15 mins
  • Paper 3 – 26%
    Unified Biology (all modules)
    Exam length: 1 hour 30 mins

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Medicine
  • Veterinary Sciences
  • Sports Science
  • Biomedical Science
  • Marine Biology
  • Zoology
  • Environmental Science

Departmental Performance:

No results for 2020/21 or 2021/22.

2019/20: A*- E = 100%

2018/19: A*-E = 100%

KS5: A Level Chemistry

Vision Statement

This course covers a wide range of chemical concepts separated into three main topics of study: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry. Knowledge, understanding and application of key concepts will be assessed in examinations at the end of year 13. Throughout both years of the course pupils will complete a number of required practicals where they will be assessed on their ability to plan, carry out experimental techniques safely and complete the relevant analysis of their data to come to conclusions about the world around them.

A-level Chemistry is a rigorous course that demonstrates good numeracy, literacy, problem-solving and practical skills. Pupils will develop their scientific understanding as well as critical and evaluative skills. Completing this course will lead to opportunities to pursue a wide range of University courses and possible career paths.

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

Three exams will be sat at the end of the second year of the course:

Paper 1 - 35% (105 Marks)

2-hour exam comprising short and long answer questions

Physical Chemistry: atomic structure, chemical calculations, bonding, energetics, chemical equilibria, oxidation and reduction reactions, thermodynamics, equilibrium constants, electrochemical cells, acids and bases, relevant practical skills.

Inorganic Chemistry: periodicity, group 2, group 7, properties of period 3 and their oxides, transition metals and reactions of ions in aqueous solutions, relevant practical skills.

2-hour exam comprising short and long answer questions

Physical Chemistry: chemical calculations, bonding, energetics, kinetics, chemical equilibria, rate equations, relevant practical skills.

Organic Chemistry: alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes, alcohols, organic analysis, optical isomerism, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, aromatic chemistry, amines, polymers, amino acids, proteins and DNA, organic synthesis, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, chromatograph, relevant practical skills.

2-hour exam comprising:

  • 40 marks of questions – practical techniques and data analysis
  • 20 marks of short/long answer questions – any content from paper 1 or 2
  • 30 marks of multiple choice questions – any content from paper 1 or 2

Skills for Success:

  • Enquiry and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong literacy skills in order to develop longer answers to explain scientific concepts in detail.
  • Numeracy skills to complete advanced level calculations including data analysis and algebra

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Medicine
  • Forensic Science
  • Pharmacy
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Biomedical Science

Departmental Performance:

No results for 2020 through until 2023.

2019/20: A*-A = 100%

2018/19: A*-D = 100%

KS5: A Level Physics

Vision Statement

A-level Physics is the study of the fundamental laws of the universe that we live in. From understanding the tiny quarks that make up matter, to the vast expanse of planetary interactions throughout the galaxy. From the simple laws of motion of everyday objects, to the mind bending quantum mechanical nature of waves and particles. A-level physics will challenge you to see the world differently and develop a curious and enquiring mind.

Over the 2 years you will apply this understanding to applications of the everyday world. You will be able to describe the physics in medicine, music, sport and design of structures. You will develop adept skills in critical thinking, mathematics and communication. Through the required practical’s, you will cultivate your investigative technique, preparing you for further study at university or in the world of work.

An A-level in Physics demonstrates an academically accomplished, hardworking and highly skilled student. These will make you more desirable when considering university applications or when moving into the world of work.

Course Outline/Assessment Methods

Paper 1 - 34%

Written examination, 2 hours

  • Measurements and their errors
  • Particles and radiation
  • Waves
  • Mechanics, further mechanics and materials
  • Electricity

Written examination, 2 hours

  • Thermal physics
  • Fields and their consequences
  • Nuclear physics

Written examination, 2 hours

  • Practical skills and data analysis
  • Medical physics

This is assessed throughout the 2 years when completing the required practical’s by the class teacher. This is submitted by the school as a non-examined component. The practical endorsement does not affect a pupils grading.

Skills for Success:

  • Enquiry and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong literacy skills in order to develop longer answers to explain Scientific concepts in detail.
  • Apply understanding to unfamiliar contexts and use numeracy skills to answer data and graph questions.

Future Course/ Career Opportunities:

  • Physics
  • Engineering
  • Computer science
  • Mathematics
  • Medical physics
  • Programming
  • Finance
  • Aerospace

Departmental Performance:

2022/23: A*-C = 25%

No results for 2020/21 or 2021/22

2018/19: A*-D = 83%

2017/18: A*-D = 100%