Science

Qualifications offered: Edexcel 9–1 GCSE Astronomy (1AS0), 9–1 International GCSE Biology (4BI1), Chemistry (4CH1), Physics (4PH1) and Science (Double Award, 4SD0)

Our Curriculum

Biology, Chemistry and Physics are compulsory in the Lower School. They are taught separately by subject specialists. Each course has been prepared by the Head of Department and is based upon the Separate Science qualification, with modifications to ensure that the curriculum is suitable for all of our pupils. In Science, pupils are set by ability with each year group being organised into four ability bands. Each band is composed of between two to five teaching sets with pupils of similar ability.

In the Remove, interested pupils may optionally elect to study Astronomy alongside Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Astronomy is a demanding subject which offers an additional challenge for pupils already thriving upon their existing scientific diet. Further details are provided below and are available from Mr James, Director of the Blackett Observatory.

The Separate Sciences and Science (Double Award) In Biology, Chemistry and Physics, we offer IGCSEs in a) the three Separate Sciences (also known as ‘Triple Award’) and b) Science (Double Award). Pupils study each of the three Sciences independently whichever route they eventually follow, a) or b). The number of Science examination papers they will eventually sit, and the demand of these papers will, however, differ. In this way we ensure that we are able to offer an appropriate level of challenge for all of our pupils, while also ensuring that they are appropriately qualified should they wish to go on to study Science in the Sixth Form.

There are two lessons per week in each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics regardless of which examination route is finally followed. This means that preparing for the Separate Sciences is especially challenging. There is additional, demanding, content to be assimilated, but no additional lesson time. Clear advice is offered to all pupils at the end of the Remove as to which route they would best be advised to follow.

At the end of the Hundred, Science (Double Award) candidates sit a 120 minute written paper for each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Candidates for the Separate Science subjects will have an additional 75 minute paper in each Science. There is no coursework requirement but an assessment of practical and investigative skills is instead built into each of the examination papers that pupils sit.