SEPARATE SCIENCE TRIPLE AWARD GCSE

Exam Board: AQA

Course Overview / Introduction

Scientists studying separate science at Brakenhale will cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics in depth to obtain three individual GCSE grades. 

Science is the study of how things work and the world around us. Our lessons focus on real-world examples and applications of specialist subject knowledge to demonstrate the relevance of science to the lives of our young scientists. Through practical work and analysis of data sources we give you the tools you need to make informed decisions.  

What will you study?

During each of the separate science courses we will cover all of the same content as combined science but will also have the chance to investigate some things further. Some of these additional sections include: 

Additional biology content: 

• How to grow bacteria in the lab

• How to use monoclonal antibodies to detect and treat disease

• How the eye focuses light

• How we investigate structure and function of the brain 

• How to clone an adult organism

Additional chemistry content: 

• How to use nanoparticles

• How to increase the yield of chemical reactions in industry

• How batteries and fuel cells work

• How organic compound behave and react together 

• How to test for different chemical using analytical techniques 

Additional physics content: 

• How static electricity works

• How we could use nuclear fusion to create electricity

• How waves cause earthquakes

• How we perceive colour 

• How to build a generator

How many exams are there?

In the separate science courses grades are awarded separately for each science, this means you will have a final biology grade, chemistry grade and physics grade for a total of three GCSE awards. Scientists working through the higher tier can achieve grades from a 9 to a 4 and those working through foundation can be awarded a 5 to a 1. 

Each of the separate sciences are assessed using two exams with each exam making up 50% of your final grade for that discipline. The exams are 100 marks each to be completed within 1 hour 45 minutes. Just like in combined science the papers will contain a mix of questions on subject content and those based on the practical work you have completed during your course.  

What will you gain from this course?

We work with our young scientists to bring science to life, providing a context for what we are learning in lessons and a better awareness of the impact of science in our daily lives. We work to give you the tools to process and understand scientific information and theories in a real world context, allowing you to make informed decisions.

What does this lead to?

A good science GCSE gives you an understanding of the world around you and your place in it. You will finish this course with a broad body of knowledge but, much more importantly, a way of thinking that takes you from being a student to being a scientist.    

The jobs that you will end up working in might not even exist yet but the ability to be able to process information and make informed decisions will be useful anywhere and at any time. 

Of course you could also decide that you haven’t finished learning about the world yet and continue your studies at A-Level in a sixth form college, or right here at Brakenhale! Opening another path to higher education at university. 

Staff Contact:

Mr D Woods,
Head of Science