GCSE Combined Science
compulsory

Science is a compulsory subject. In an increasingly technological world, everyone needs a working knowledge of science – modern life depends on science. We have worked hard to ensure that the science education that students at Plymstock School receive is personalised, ensuring that students will remain inspired by their learning and will be able to achieve their potential.

Science is a set of ideas about the material world. All the skills a scientist would need are developed, whether it be investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and thinking about them.

The content of the GCSE syllabus will cover topics under the key headings of:

• Biology. Topics include: Cell biology; Organisation; Infection and response, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, variation and evolution; Ecology. Biology has 10% Mathematics content.

• Chemistry. Topics include: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter; Quantitative Chemistry; Chemical changes; Energy changes; the rate and extent of chemical change; Organic chemistry; Chemical analysis; Chemistry of the atmosphere; Using resources. Chemistry has 20% Mathematics content.

• Physics. Topics include: Forces; Energy; Waves; Electricity; Magnetism and electromagnetism; Particle model of matter; Atomic structure. Physics has 30% Mathematics content.

For each subject, Biology, Chemistry and Physics, there are 2 x 70 mark, 1hr 15min exams assessed in the following ways: Multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response. Combined Science results in 2 GCSE grades calculated by adding all 6 examination marks together.

There are 21 required practicals that have to be carried out in class across the 3 subjects.

Questions in the written exams will draw on the knowledge and understanding students have gained by carrying out the practical activities. These questions will count for at least 15% of the overall marks for the qualification. Many of our questions will also focus on investigative skills and how well students can apply what they know to practical situations, often in novel contexts.

Good grades in GCSE Combined Science will allow students to progress to A Levels in: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These Level 3 qualifications prepare students for a variety of further progression routes.