Science

Science is the study of the world around us, how it functions and how it might change in the future. It is a lot more than a collection of facts and figures; it is a process for learning about the natural world, the study of elements of the Earth and beyond, into the observable universe.

We can all have ideas about how the world might work or why something might happen, but Science allows us to make predictions, design experiments and test those ideas. From the motion of particles too tiny to see, to the life and death of giant stars in distant galaxies: the Science department's goal is to start you on a pathway of discovery about the universe that will last a lifetime.

The achievement of your Science qualifications at GCSE, whether that be following the Combined Science Award or the three individual sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, will open doors for you throughout your life. As a student of Science, we will not only increase your knowledge and curiosity of Science... we will make you into a scientist!

Curriculum information:

Year	Autumn	Spring	Summer
7	Working scientifically – practical skills Energy – Energy costs and transfers Organisms – Cells Matter – Particle model and separating mixtures	Forces – Speed and gravity Genes – Variation and human reproduction Earth – Structure of the Earth and the universe Waves – Sound and light	Ecosystems – Interdependence and plant reproduction Reactions – metals and non-metals; acids and alkalis Electromagnets – Voltage, current and resistance
8	Energy – Work; heating and cooling Organisms – Breathing, movement and digestion Matter – Periodic table and elements Forces – Contact forces and pressure	Ecosystems – Respiration and photosynthesis Reactions – Chemical energy and types of reactions Waves – Wave effects and wave properties Genes – Evolution and inheritance	Earth – Climate and Earth’s resources Electromagnets – Magnetism and electromagnets Scientific skills – working scientifically
9	Energy Atomic structure and periodic table Cells – Cell structure, movement, and cell division Electricity – Electrical circuits and electricity in the home Organisation	Structure and bonding Particle model of matter Bioenergetics – Respiration and photosynthesis Chemical analysis Energy changes	Infection and response Chemical change Atomic structure
10	Biology The nervous system Hormonal control Reproduction Chemistry Chemical calculations Chemical analysis Chemical changes Electrolysis Physics Forces in balance Motion Forces in motion	Biology Genetics and evolution Adaptations, interdependence, and competition Chemistry Organic chemistry Polymers Using our resources Physics Force and pressure Waves, electromagnetic waves, and light	Biology Homeostasis in action Organising an ecosystem Biodiversity and ecosystems Chemistry Organic reactions Reviewing required practicals Physics Space Reviewing required practicals
11	Tailored revision in preparation for examinations, to include e.g.: Reaction times Plant responses Review of content and practical skills required for Paper 1 Revision and preparation for mock exams in November	Tailored revision in preparation for examinations, to include e.g.: Microscopy Microbiology Osmosis and cell transport Review of content and practical skills required for Paper 2 Revision and preparation for mock exams in February/March	Tailored revision in preparation for examinations, to cover full GCSE specification, including key content and practical work

I find science a fascinating subject which I always look forward to in my week. It’s mind-blowing to be able to calculate the number of molecules in a droplet of water.

Year 10 student

Science teaches students to safely practice science experiments as soon as you join the school. Sometimes when you leave a classroom your learning leaves your head, but in science, everything is practiced and remembered.

Year 7 student