Science Summer Term

Learners will continue with the rota they started last term of relationships, chemical reactions and circuits & magnets. Please be aware that due to the class changes after Easter, learners might not be following the rota they started. 

Relationships; In this unit learners will explore how plants and animals interact and the importance of these relationships in maintaining our planet. They will learn about how both plants and animals reproduce and how genes are passed on from one generation to the next as well as exploring how species have evolved over time. Learners will have the opportunity to have a go at sampling our school ecosystem and learn more about how humans are impacting on the world around them.

Chemical reactions; This unit is about understanding how different substances react with each other. Learners will be introduced by learning that new substances are made during chemical reactions. They will cover the two categories of reactions; exothermic and endothermic. They will cover in depth the following reactions; combustion, thermal decomposition, oxidation, displacement and neutralisation, including making salt crystals. They will then move onto how we can speed up chemical reactions. Learners will look to develop their scientific maths skills throughout this unit such as using reaction profile diagrams and calculating how much energy is transferred during a chemical reaction. They will finish the unit on balancing symbol equations. 

Circuits and magnets; During this study period, learners will be introduced to the fundamentals of electrical circuits, current and voltage. Learners will learn about the different components used in constructing electrical circuits and their functions. Learners will explore the phenomena of potential difference, current, resistance, power and learn how they interact with each other. Learners should be able to compare the properties of series and parallel circuits and evaluate their uses as well as discuss the role of magnets and electromagnets. Learners will apply their understanding of the properties and behaviour of electrical components to consider their uses in the technological world and the home. Learners will consider where our electricity comes from and will evaluate the ethical considerations of different energy sources. 

Learners will develop their practical skills throughout the study period and are introduced to one of the GCSE required practicals. Learners will also have the opportunity to develop the mathematical skills that will be required in their GCSE exams through calculations and the use of equations.

Relationships, chemical reactions, circuits & magnets 

End of unit assessment will consist of a 40 mark test

Midway assessment set by class teacher which could be an exam question

Learners will receive guidance in a variety of ways.  These include marked assessments, reports, feedback in books, 1:1 interaction, Google Classroom.