TRIPLE SCIENCE

Biology

The complex and diverse phenomena of the natural world can be described in terms of a small number of key ideas in biology.

The GCSE Biology course broadly divides into these key areas; Cell biology, Organisation of organisms, Immunity and disease, Photosynthesis and respiration, Physiology and response to stimuli, Inheritance and evolution, and Ecology. Students also analyse and discuss the development of biology in the context of moral and ethical attitudes in society.

Practical work is taught as an integral part of the course, and the skills and methods learned will also be assessed in the final exams.

Chemistry

The course begins with fundamental ideas of atomic structure and hence how atoms join to form bonds in compounds.

This bonding then underlies two strands - ‘patterns of behaviour’, including a study of the periodic table and rates of reaction; and ‘changing materials’, containing the extraction of metals, industrial processes and a study of oil refining, leading to organic chemistry. Chemical calculations and consideration of the earth’s atmosphere and the rock cycle are also included. Where relevant, teaching of ideas and evidence in science is included.

Physics

The GCSE Physics course is divided into eight topics: Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, Magnetism and Electromagnetism, Particle Models of Matter, Atomic Structure, and Space Physics.

External assessment takes place at the end of Year 11 and consists of two written exams worth 50% each.

Practical work is taught as an integral part of the course, and the skills and methods learned in the laboratory will also be assessed in both of the final exams.

GCSE Physics will be particularly useful for those going on to study sciences at A-Level, or considering a career in engineering, computer science, mathematics or medicine.