Why should I study this subject?

Science is compulsory for all pupils in Years 10 and 11. The course is designed so that you develop an appreciation of the world around you and also the work that scientists do. In Biology, Chemistry and Physics you will study the ways in which science affects you as an individual and also how it affects society as a whole. You will have the opportunity to make scientific measurements during investigations and as a result you will develop your ability to evaluate scientific information. You will also develop your language and mathematical skills.

What is the content of the course?

In Year 10 the pupils who follow Science study a module in each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The first Biology module looks at cells, respiratory and digestion systems and ecosystems. Atomic structure and the periodic table, the ever-changing earth and rates of reactions are studied in Chemistry and you will be studying electrical circuits, energy and waves in Physics. Together with a further four modules in Year 11 the course will give you a Double Award GCSE in Science. Pupils studying the separate sciences will complete units with extended areas of study to gain three separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

If selected to follow Applied Science (Double Award) you will complete two units in Year 10 titled:-

1. Energy, Resources and the Environment

2. Space, Health and Life Together with a further three units in Year 11 the course will give you a Double Award GCSE in Applied Science.

GCSE Applied Science (Double Award) provides a context led framework for developing learners’ knowledge, understanding and skills.

Will I be taught in a particular set?

There will be sets in Year 10. The set you are placed in will depend on the pathway most suitable for you. There are three pathways available which are:-

• GCSE Separate Sciences (GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry & GCSE Physics)

• GCSE Science (Double Award)

• GCSE Applied Science (Double Award)