S2-S3 Science

Course Outline:

S3 Biology builds on the work pupils studied at Level 3 in S1 and S2, and should encourage pupils to develop a curiosity and understanding of their environment and biological systems, through engagement with topical science and involvement in practical sessions. 

The course has been carefully planned to ensure it prepares pupils for learning in S4 National Biology.  We aim to make the course enjoyable for pupils, to spark a deep interest in biology and encourage pupils to continue with the subject beyond S3. 

The topics to be covered up to Level 4 are:

• Cells and Cellular Processes- we learn about controversial biological procedures, such as the use of stem cells, genetics, and how enzymes are used in brewing, baking and washing detergents.  Practical work features prominently in this unit.

• Body Systems and Behaviour – we learn how our bodies keep warm and cool down, how our kidneys work, how our brain and nervous system work, and how drugs affect our nervous system.  We also learn about why humans and animals behave in certain ways and the benefits of this. 

• Plant Life Cycles – we learn how plants grow from seeds and then reproduce.  We complete practical experiments such as dissecting seeds and flowers.

• Environmental Biology – We explore the idea of biodiversity and how it is affected by pollution.  We also explore food chains and food webs, how animals and plants compete with each other, among several other environmental issues. 

Pupils are tested regularly using examination standard questions. They are made aware of their progress and how they can improve throughout the course, moving towards learning in the senior phase, where they will take SQA examinations. 

Course Outline:

S3 Chemistry builds on the outcomes and experiences already encountered in S1 and S2. Whilst maintaining the principles of a broad science education, it gives a good preparation for further study of science in the senior phase by exposing pupils to level 4 outcomes in chemistry

.

This course aims to show the importance of chemistry in all our lives and help develop an understanding of the nature of the many materials we encounter every day.

The course covers the following topics:

·   Structure of atoms and how they join together

·   Fossil fuels and carbon compounds from oil

·   Metals, batteries, and reactivity

The course uses a variety of teaching styles including whole class, group work and individual study. Most topics will involve written work as well as practical experiments and investigations.

Pupils are tested regularly using examination standard questions. They are made aware of their progress and how they can improve as they move towards learning in the Senior Phase, where they will take SQA examinations. 

Course Outline:

S3 Physics builds on the outcomes and experiences already encountered in S1 and S2, specifically the topics introducing Forces, Energy, Electricity and Waves. It provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for the further study of physics in the senior phase.

Physics is the study of why things happen and is the basis for many other sciences. The course has been carefully planned to demonstrate this, and to prepare pupils for learning in S4 National Physics. 

The topics to be covered up to Level 4 are:

·   Waves

·   Nuclear physics

·   Electricity

·   Energy

·   Dynamics

·   Space

Throughout the course pupils will carry out and write up investigations, use physics relationships to make predictions, and research everyday applications of physics theory.

Pupils are tested regularly using examination standard questions. They are made aware of their progress and how they can improve as they move towards learning in the Senior Phase, where they will take SQA examinations.