slockett@plymstockschool.org.uk
Students who are really curious about how the world works will be interested in studying separate sciences. The course goes into more depth in Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics and develops understanding in areas that are not covered in Combined Science.
Lessons will develop practical skills and extend students' understanding to be able to interpret and succeed in a fast paced technological age that relies ever more heavily on science.
Please note that due to the amount of curriculum time and level of demand of the course a student’s suitability for the course will be determined by the Science department.
The content of the GCSE syllabus will cover topics under the key headings below. These are very similar to the Combined Science but go into more detail to give better understanding.
Biology: Topics include: cell biology; organisation; infection and response; bioenergetics; homeostasis and response; inheritance variation and evolution; ecology. GCSE 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. GCSE Chemistry has 20% Mathematics content.
Physics: Topics include: forces; energy; waves; electricity; magnetism and electromagnetism; particle model of matter; atomic structure; space physics. GCSE Physics has 30% Mathematics content.
For each subject, Biology, Chemistry and Physics: There are 2 x 100 mark, 1hr 45min exams assessed in the following ways; multiple choice; structured; closed short answer and open response. Each of the papers will assess knowledge and understanding from distinct topic areas. Triple Science results in 3 entirely independent GCSE grades; one for each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
There are a total of 28 required practicals across the 3 subjects that have to be carried out in class: 10 for Biology; 8 for Chemistry and 10 for Physics.
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 the three separate sciences 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.