KS3 Science

At Key Stage 3, the science department follows schemes of work devised by us from the National Curriculum. Our aim is to enthuse students with an appreciation of scientific learning across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. We aim to provide a solid grounding in preparation for KS4 as well as an introduction to scientific problem solving, practical skills, and the use of evidence to develop theories, but above all else, to promote a love of learning about the Universe.

Year 7

Students have one lesson a week in each of the three sciences, and study the following modules.

(Click a subject to find out more)

Building Blocks
Inheritance
Nutrition in Plants
Exchange and Transport
Respiration
Energy Flow

Introduction to Chemistry
States of Matter
Elements, Compounds & Mixtures
Chemical Reactions
Acids and Alkalis

Space
Forces
Energy
Light
Electricity

Year 8

Students have one lesson a week in each of the three sciences, and study the following modules.

(Click a subject to find out more)

Building Blocks
Nutrition in Mammals
Exchange and Transport
Respiration
Inheritance
Energy Flow

Atomic Structure
The Periodic Table
Separation Techniques
Earth Science
Material Science

Particles
Forces
Energy
Sound
Electricity

Homework

We believe that homework needs to support the day to day learning in lessons. Every student has their own homework book in which they should complete their weekly task; these are based around a set of ideas/principles that we build on during lesson time by completing practicals as well by discussing and writing about our ideas. The ideas are laid out in 'knowledge organisers' which list specific ideas/keywords alongside their meaning and explanations. Tasks centre around learning these ideas in ways set by class teachers; if you would like to support your child in completing these tasks you may find this website useful http://www.learningscientists.org/.

All homework is set using Google Classroom so both students and parents can easily keep track of what should be completed. We know that students sometimes forget to complete homework and the first time it is missed in a term, we record a strike. If there is a second missing piece of homework in a term, we will issue a classroom teacher after school detention so we can quickly help students get back on top of the persistent missing homework; if a student has simply forgotten their homework that day but has completed it, we aim to allow students to bring it in the next day without receiving a strike. We may pick up on this, however, if it becomes a persistent issue. If there is any other reason why a student may have been unable to complete the homework, please write a note in their planner. Please contact us if you have any queries and/or need help in accessing Google Classroom.

Common Homework Questions

"Can I see what homework my child has missed on Google Classroom?"

Yes. You can request to be added via email as a Guardian to your child's Google Classroom. From there you can view your child's marks for their homework, as well as any missed assignments or upcoming deadlines they may have. You will also be sent regular email notifications by Google on how your child is getting on.

"Where is my homework set?"

All homework is set on Google Classroom. You can find information about the homework, when it's due, and any relevant links or resources on the assignment.

"What if I don't understand my homework?"

The best thing to do is start by asking your friends or family for help. If they can't help you, or you're still stuck, you should email your teacher. "I didn't understand the homework" is not a good enough excuse by secondary school for not doing it.

You can find all science teacher email addresses by clicking here.

"I love science! What extra things can I do?"

Why not join Science Club?

A club exclusively for Year 7 and 8 students, all based around investigations and practical projects.

For more info about Science Club, click here.

Have you thought about entering Science Fair?

The Cooper School runs a Science Fair every term for Year 7, 8 and 9 students. The science fair consists of additional projects students take on in their own time, usually centered on a different theme each term.

These projects are then collected and presented in the last week of every term, and prizes awarded to the best entries by Dr Whannel.

For more information about Science Fair click here.

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