Curriculum

SCIENCE

The principal focus of our science teaching in science is to develop pupils’ deeper understanding of a range of scientific ideas in the subject disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Pupils are encouraged to make the connections between these subject areas and to become aware of some of the big ideas underpinning scientific knowledge and understanding.

We encourage them to relate scientific explanations to phenomena in the world around them and to apply modelling and abstract ideas to develop and evaluate explanations. We develop pupils’ understanding that science is about working objectively, modifying explanations to take account of new evidence and ideas and subjecting results to peer review. Pupils learn to decide on the appropriate type of scientific enquiry to undertake to answer their own questions and to develop a deeper understanding of factors to be considered when collecting, recording and processing data. They learn to evaluate their results and identify further questions arising from them.

‘Working scientifically’ is taught through and clearly related to substantive science content throughout the curriculum. Teachers choose examples that serve a variety of purposes, from showing how scientific ideas have developed historically to reflecting modern developments in science. Through this teaching, pupils develop their use of scientific vocabulary, including the use of scientific nomenclature and units and mathematical representations.

Working scientifically

Through the content across all three disciplines, pupils are taught to:

Scientific attitudes:

  • Pay attention to objectivity and concern for accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility
  • Understand that scientific methods and theories develop as earlier explanations are modified to take account of new evidence and ideas, together with the importance of publishing results and peer review
  • Evaluate risks

Experimental skills and investigations:

  • Ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
  • Make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding
  • Select, plan and carry out the most appropriate types of scientific enquiries to test predictions, including identifying independent, dependent and control variables
  • Use appropriate techniques, apparatus, and materials during fieldwork and laboratory work, paying attention to health and safety
  • Make and record observations and measurements using a range of methods for different investigations; and evaluate the reliability of methods and suggest possible improvements
  • Apply sampling techniques

Analysis and Evaluation:

  • Apply mathematical concepts and calculate results
  • Present observations and data using appropriate methods, including tables and graphs
  • Interpret observations and data, including identifying patterns and using observations, measurements and data to draw conclusions
  • Present reasoned explanations, including explaining data in relation to predictions and hypotheses
  • Evaluate data, showing awareness of potential sources of random and systematic error
  • Identify further questions arising from their results

Measurement:

  • Understand and use SI units and IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) chemical nomenclature
  • Use and derive simple equations and carry out appropriate calculations
  • Undertake basic data analysis including simple statistical techniques
Curriculum Overview
Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11
Biology 
  • Cells
  • Body systems
  • Reproduction
  • Health and Lifestyle
  • Ecosystems
  • Adaptations and inheritance
  • Key concepts
  • Cells and controls
  • Genetics
  • Natural and selection genetic modification
  • Health, disease and development of medicines
  • Plant structure and function
  • Animal co-ordination
  • Exchange and Transport
  • Ecosystems and material cycles
Chemistry
  • Atoms, elements and compounds
  • Chemical reactions
  • Acids and Alkalis
  • Separation techniques
  • Periodic table
  • Metals and acids
  • The Earth
  • Key concepts
  • States of matter
  • Methods of purifying substances
  • Atomic structure
  • Periodic table
  • Ionic bonding
  • Covalent bonding
  • Types of substances
  • Acids and alkalis
  • Chemical calculations
  • Electrolytic processes
  • Obtaining and using metals
  • Reversible reactions
  • Groups in the periodic table
  • Rates of reaction
  • Heat energy changes
  • Fuels
  • Earth and atmospheric science
Physics 
  • Forces
  • Sound
  • Light
  • Electricity and magnetism
  • Space
  • Energy
  • Motion and pressure
  • Key concepts
  • Forces motion
  • Conservation of energy
  • Waves
  • Light
  • EM spectrum
  • Radioactivity
  • Magnetism and the motor effect
  • Electromagnetic induction
  • Particle model
  • Forces and matter

 

Assessment

Pupils’ work is assessed regularly on both a formative and a summative basis.

Key Stage 4 Exam Board Specification (Combined Science): Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE ((9-1) in Combined Science (1SC0)

Enrichment Offer

The Department offers subject-specific enrichment clubs and organises a range of educational visits throughout the year. Pupils are able to take part in school-wide competitions, as well as representing the Academy in local and national competitions designed to increase their engagement and enhance their subject knowledge. Intervention sessions to consolidate prior learning and ensure maximum progress are at the heart of our delivery model. During British Science week we offer a programme including talks and workshops from local and national STEM ambassadors.