Science
Science is by far one of the most fascinating and rewarding subjects that can be studied. We aim to inspire, challenge, and enthuse pupils by empowering them with knowledge about How Science Works to assist them in applying this to the world around them.
At St. Gregory’s, we have 9 scientists on staff supported by a team of 3 laboratory technicians and an administrative assistant. We have 9 science laboratories, each fitted with their own Interactive Whiteboard and own computer.
Our Key Stage 3 students cover the National Curriculum. They explore topics such as cells, life processes, acids, simple chemical reactions, geology, forces, energy, and electricity to name but a few. Students build upon their knowledge from primary school but also gain from a highly practical approach to learning about Science. Each student is taught in a banded class in Year 7, 8, and 9, supported by a range of textbooks and differentiated worksheets. All students are taught Science for 6 hours across the two-week timetable. Assessment takes place through a variety of means including levelled assessments and end of topic tests.
In 2023 – 2024 at Key Stage 4, Year 10 and 11 students either study Edexcel Separate Science (3 GCSE’s in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) or Edexcel Combined Science (2 GCSE’s covering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics topics). Each classroom has class sets of a range of textbooks to assist our learners and each student is issued with their own syllabus specific revision guide and workbook. Pupils are taught in banded groups according to their exam entry and we offer an extensive intervention programme (before and after school revision drop-in clinics as well as some Saturdays) to facilitate pupil learning.
Courses in AQA Biology and Chemistry and EDEXCEL Physics are taught by specialist teachers at Key Stage 5. These are very popular courses and year-on-year our results are excellent with many students progressing to Science related degrees at some of the country’s top universities.
As a department, we offer several extra-curricular activities throughout the year including workshops and trips to the Science Museum. There are also a number of opportunities for our Gifted and Talented scientists, one of which is attending the Brent Science and Technology Day where St Gregory’s traditionally place highly. We celebrate National Science Week in style – a whole month of science based activities and trips across all year groups.
We have a strong partnership with our Primary Partner schools. Year 6 students receive workshops on circuits and forces and also have access to our pond in the school’s Eco garden.
KEY STAGE 3 OVERVIEW
Year 7
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Term 1 |
Chapter 1 Cells – the Building Blocks of Life Required Practical: Microscopes |
Chapter 5 Forces and their Effects Required Practical: Hooke’s Law |
End of Term Exam
|
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Term 2 |
Chapter 3 Mixing, Dissolving, and Separating Required Practical: Chromatography |
Chapter 2 Eating, Drinking, and Breathing Required Practical: Enzymes |
End of Term Exam |
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Term 3 |
Chapter 4 Elements, Compounds, and Reactions Required Practical: Burning Candles |
Chapter 6 Energy Transfers and Sound Required Practical: Ball and Ramp |
End of Year Exam
|
Year 8
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Term 1 |
Chapter 1 Getting the Energy Your Body Needs Required Practical: Respiration |
Chapter 5 Exploring Contact and Non-Contact Forces Required Practical: Density |
End of Term Exam |
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Term 2 |
Chapter 3 Explaining Physical Changes Required Practical: Temperature-time graph |
Chapter 6 Magnetism and Electricity Required Practical: Resistance in a Wire |
End of Term Exam |
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Term 3 |
Chapter 4 Explaining Chemical Changes Required Practical: Metal + Acid |
Chapter 2 Looking at Plants and Ecosystems Required Practical: Photosynthesis |
End of Year Exam
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Year 9
|
Term 1 |
Chapter 1 Variation for Survival |
Chapter 3 Obtaining Useful Materials |
Chapter 5 Motion on Earth and In Space |
End of Term Exam (Mock SATS Paper) |
|
Term 2 |
Chapter 2 Our Health and the Effects of Drugs |
Chapter 4 Using our Earth Sustainably |
Chapter 6 Waves and Energy Transfer |
(Mock SATS Paper) |
|
Term 3 |
KS3 Revision |
KS3 Science Tests In May |
GCSE B1 Topic 1 and C1 Topic 1 |
KS3 Science Exams |
YEAR 7
In Year 7 students will be developing their science knowledge and learning how to use scientific apparatus. They will cover a variety of biology, chemistry & physics topics throughout the year.
Topics covered
Term 1: Cells-The building blocks of life; Mixing; Forces & their Effects
Term 2: Dissolving & Separating; Eating, Drinking & Breathing
Term 3: Elements, Compounds & Reactions; Energy Transfers & Sound
Specification
At St Gregory’s Year 7 follow the new National Curriculum programme of study. To access the entire new programme of study follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/335174/SECONDARY_national_curriculum_-_Science_220714.pdf
Text books used
Each pupil will be issued with a workbook: CGP Key stage 3 Science Book 1. This may be used in class or for homework tasks. In class students will use the Collins Key stage 3 Science Student Book 1.
Assessment
During the year students will be assessed both formally and informally. There will be assessments at the end of each topic, as well as 2 formal exams: At the end of term 1 & the end of the year.
Each term there will be a particular practical element that students will focus on: Term 1 will focus on Scientific Attitudes, Term 2 will look closely at Experimental skills, and Term 3 will go over both of these skills.
Useful websites
Here are a few websites recommended for science revision in year 7:
BBC Bitesize KS3: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zng4d2p
Skoool.co.uk, Intel STEM resources for KS3: http://inteleducationresources.intel.co.uk/keystage3.aspx?id=80
Doc Brown’s quizzes: http://www.docbrown.info/ks3science.htm
YEAR 8
In Year 8 students will be developing their science knowledge and learning how to use scientific apparatus. They will cover a variety of biology, chemistry & physics topics throughout the year.
Topics covered
Term 1: Getting the Energy Your Body Needs; Exploring Contact and Non-Contact Forces
Term 2: Magnetism and Electricity; Explaining Physical Changes
Term 3: Looking at Plants and Ecosystems; Explaining Chemical Changes
Specification
At St Gregory’s Year 8 follow the new National Curriculum programme of study. To access the entire new programme of study follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/335174/SECONDARY_national_curriculum_-_Science_220714.pdf
Text books used
Each pupil will be issued with a workbook: CGP Key stage 3 Science Book 2. This may be used in class or for homework tasks. In class students will use the Collins Key stage 3 Science Student Book 2.
Assessment
During the year students will be assessed both formally and informally. There will be assessments at the end of each topic, as well as 2 formal exams: At the end of term 1 & the end of the year.
Each term there will be a particular practical element that students will focus on: Planning & measuring; Analysing & Evaluating. This is to ensure students learn key experimental skills.
Useful websites
Here are a few websites recommended for science revision in Year 8:
BBC Bitesize KS3: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zng4d2p
Skoool.co.uk, Intel STEM resources for KS3: http://inteleducationresources.intel.co.uk/keystage3.aspx?id=80
Doc Brown’s quizzes: http://www.docbrown.info/ks3science.htm
YEAR 9
In Year 9 students will be developing their science knowledge and learning how to use scientific apparatus. They will cover a variety of biology, chemistry & physics topics throughout the year.
Topics covered
Term 1: Variation for Survival; Obtaining Useful Materials; Motion on Earth and Space
Term 2: Our Health and the Effects of Drugs; Using our Earth Sustainably; Waves and Energy Transfer
Term 3: Revision of KS3, KS3 Science Test, and GCSE B1 topic 1 and C1 topic 1
Specification
At St Gregory’s Year 9 follow the new National Curriculum programme of study. To access the entire new programme of study follow this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/335174/SECONDARY_national_curriculum_-_Science_220714.pdf
Text books used
Each pupil will be issued with a workbook: CGP Key stage 3 Science Book 3. This may be used in class or for homework tasks. In class students will use the Collins Key stage 3 Science Student Book 3.
Assessment
During the year students will be assessed both formally and informally. There will be assessments at the end of each topic, as well as 2 formal exams: At the end of term 1 & the KS3 science Test written in April.
Each term there will be a particular practical element that students will focus on: Planning & measuring; Analysing & Evaluating. This is to ensure students learn key experimental skills required for GCSE.
Useful websites
Here are a few websites recommended for science revision in year 9:
BBC Bitesize KS3: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zng4d2p
Skoool.co.uk, Intel STEM resources for KS3: http://inteleducationresources.intel.co.uk/keystage3.aspx?id=80
Doc Brown’s quizzes: http://www.docbrown.info/ks3science.htm
YEAR 10
GCSE Edexcel Combined
Most students in Year 10 will follow GCSE (Edexcel) 9-1 in Combined Science. Each exam is of equal weighting and will be sat at the end of Year 11. Exams will cover knowledge, application, analysis, evaluation, alongside practical skills.
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Combined Science
Each paper is 1 hour and 10 minutes and worth 60 marks (16 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1: Biology 1 (B1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 2 – Cells and control
- Topic 3 – Genetics
- Topic 4 – Natural selection and genetic modification
- Topic 5 – Health, disease, and the development of medicine
Paper 2: Biology 2 (B2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions
- Topic 7 – Animal co-ordination, control, and homeostasis
- Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in animals
- Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles
Paper 3: Chemistry 1 (C1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures
- Topic 3 – Chemical changes
- Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria
Paper 4: Chemistry 2 (C2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 6 – Groups in the Periodic Table
- Topic 7 – Rates of reaction and energy changes
- Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science
Paper 5: Physics 1 (P1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 2 – Motion and forces
- Topic 3 – Conservation of energy
- Topic 4 – Waves
- Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum
- Topic 6 – Radioactivity
Paper 6: Physics 2 (P2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 8 – Energy – Forces doing work
- Topic 9 – Forces and their effects
- Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits
- Topic 12 – Magnetism and the motor effect
- Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction
- Topic 14 – Particle model
- Topic 15 – Forces and matter
GCSE Edexcel Separate
Some students in Year 10 will follow GCSE (Edexcel) Separate Sciences in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. All examinations are to be sat at the end of Year 11 and will be worth 50% each of the overall GCSE. Exams will cover knowledge, application, analysis, evaluation, alongside practical skills.
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Biology
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 2 – Cells and control
- Topic 3 – Genetics
- Topic 4 – Natural selection and genetic modification
- Topic 5 – Health, disease, and the development of medicine
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions
- Topic 7 – Animal co-ordination, control, and homeostasis
- Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in animals
- Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Chemistry
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures
- Topic 3 – Chemical changes
- Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria
- Topic 5 – Separate Chemistry 1
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 6 – Groups in the Periodic Table
- Topic 7 – Rates of reaction and energy changes
- Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science
- Topic 9 – Separate Chemistry 2
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Physics
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 2 – Motion and forces
- Topic 3 – Conservation of energy
- Topic 4 – Waves
- Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum
- Topic 6 – Radioactivity
- Topic 7 – Astronomy
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 8 – Energy – Forces doing work
- Topic 9 – Forces and their effects
- Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits
- Topic 11 – Static electricity
- Topic 12 – Magnetism and the motor effect
- Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction
- Topic 14 – Particle model
- Topic 15 – Forces and matter
YEAR 11
GCSE Edexcel Combined
Most students in Year 11 will continue to follow GCSE (Edexcel) 9-1 in Combined Science. Each exam is of equal weighting and will be sat at the end of Year 11. Exams will cover knowledge, application, analysis, evaluation, alongside practical skills.
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Combined Science
Each paper is 1 hour and 10 minutes and worth 60 marks (16 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1: Biology 1 (B1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 2 – Cells and control
- Topic 3 – Genetics
- Topic 4 – Natural selection and genetic modification
- Topic 5 – Health, disease, and the development of medicine
Paper 2: Biology 2 (B2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions
- Topic 7 – Animal co-ordination, control, and homeostasis
- Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in animals
- Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles
Paper 3: Chemistry 1 (C1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures
- Topic 3 – Chemical changes
- Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria
Paper 4: Chemistry 2 (C2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 6 – Groups in the Periodic Table
- Topic 7 – Rates of reaction and energy changes
- Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science
Paper 5: Physics 1 (P1)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 2 – Motion and forces
- Topic 3 – Conservation of energy
- Topic 4 – Waves
- Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum
- Topic 6 – Radioactivity
Paper 6: Physics 2 (P2)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 8 – Energy – Forces doing work
- Topic 9 – Forces and their effects
- Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits
- Topic 12 – Magnetism and the motor effect
- Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction
- Topic 14 – Particle model
- Topic 15 – Forces and matter
GCSE Edexcel Separate
Some students in Year 11 will continue to follow GCSE (Edexcel) Separate Sciences in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. All examinations are to be sat at the end of Year 11 and will be worth 50% each of the overall GCSE. Exams will cover knowledge, application, analysis, evaluation, alongside practical skills.
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Biology
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 2 – Cells and control
- Topic 3 – Genetics
- Topic 4 – Natural selection and genetic modification
- Topic 5 – Health, disease, and the development of medicine
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Biology
- Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions
- Topic 7 – Animal co-ordination, control, and homeostasis
- Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in animals
- Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Chemistry
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures
- Topic 3 – Chemical changes
- Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria
- Topic 5 – Separate Chemistry 1
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Chemistry
- Topic 6 – Groups in the Periodic Table
- Topic 7 – Rates of reaction and energy changes
- Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science
- Topic 9 – Separate Chemistry 2
GCSE Edexcel (9-1) in Physics
Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 100 marks (27 marks will be common to both Higher and Foundation)
Paper 1
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 2 – Motion and forces
- Topic 3 – Conservation of energy
- Topic 4 – Waves
- Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum
- Topic 6 – Radioactivity
- Topic 7 – Astronomy
Paper 2
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in Physics
- Topic 8 – Energy – Forces doing work
- Topic 9 – Forces and their effects
- Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits
- Topic 11 – Static electricity
- Topic 12 – Magnetism and the motor effect
- Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction
- Topic 14 – Particle model
- Topic 15 – Forces and matter
BIOLOGY YEAR 12
AS level Biology (AQA)
MINIMUM PREFERRED ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for AS level
Grade 77 at GCSE Combined Science (Pearson)
or 677 at GCSE Biology Chemistry and Physics (must be Grade 7 for Biology)
Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics
Grade 6 in GCSE English language
COURSE AIMS
During the course you will have opportunities to:
- Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the practical skills associated with Biology.
- Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other
- Develop interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology including developing an interest in further study and careers in the subject.
- Appreciate how society makes decisions about biology related issues and how biology contributes to the success of the economy and society.
COURSE CONTENT Year 1
Biological molecules
Cells
Organisms exchanging substances with their environment
Genetic information, variation and relationship between organisms
ASSESSMENT
Students studying AS Biology will sit an assessment in June.
WHY BIOLOGY?
In recent years many of our students have studied biology simply because of their interest in living things. Other students want to go on and study at University or enter a related career such as:
|
MEDICINE |
PHYSIOTHERAPY |
VETERINARY SURGEON |
|
DENTISTRY |
NURSING |
ZOOLOGY |
|
PHARMACY |
AGRICULTURE |
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY |
|
BIOCHEMISTRY |
RADIOGRAPHY |
TEACHING |
We attempt to provide a relaxed and informal atmosphere in which students can develop a mature and questioning approach to the subject. There is a collection of reference books, in addition to the course text books, available for student loan so that essential reading around the subject can take place. We expect students to spend a minimum of four hours on private study in addition to timetabled lessons.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL BIOLOGY SHOULD BE REFERRED TO DR HUI
Useful weblinks
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402
BIOLOGY YEAR 13
A level Biology (AQA)
ENTRY REQUIREMENT for A level
Grade C at AS level in the end of year examination
COURSE AIMS
During the course you will have opportunities to:
- Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the practical skills associated with Biology.
- Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other
- Develop interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology including developing an interest in further study and careers in the subject.
- Appreciate how society makes decisions about biology related issues and how biology contributes to the success of the economy and society.
COURSE CONTENT A level
Year 1 topics plus the following:
Energy transfers in and between organisms
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
The control of gene expression
ASSESSMENT
Students studying A level Biology will sit paper 1 (Year 1 content), paper 2 (Year 2 content) and paper 3 (synoptic content) at the end of year 13. In addition, all students will have to complete a list of required practical activities.
WHY BIOLOGY?
In recent years many of our students have studied biology simply because of their interest in living things. Other students want to go on and study at University or enter a related career such as:
|
MEDICINE |
PHYSIOTHERAPY |
VETERINARY SURGEON |
|
DENTISTRY |
NURSING |
ZOOLOGY |
|
PHARMACY |
AGRICULTURE |
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY |
|
BIOCHEMISTRY |
RADIOGRAPHY |
TEACHING |
We attempt to provide a relaxed and informal atmosphere in which students can develop a mature and questioning approach to the subject. There is a collection of reference books, in addition to the course text books, available for student loan so that essential reading around the subject can take place. We expect students to spend a minimum of four hours on private study in addition to timetabled lessons.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL BIOLOGY SHOULD BE REFFERED TO DR HUI
Useful weblinks
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402
CHEMISTRY YEAR 12
AS Level Chemistry (AQA)
MINIMUM PREFERRED ENTRY REQUIREMENT:-
Combined Science (Pearson) 77 (Higher)
or Biology, Chemistry and Physics 677(7 in chemistry)
GCSE English Language grade 6 and GCSE Maths grade 7 (Higher)
Concurrent enrolment with A Level maths is strongly recommended.
COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Some the aims of the AQA AS Level GCE in Chemistry are to develop;
- essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- an understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
COURSE CONTENT
YEAR 1 AS LEVEL
Topics covered include:- Atomic structure, Amount of substance, Bonding, Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibria, Redox, Periodicity, Group 2, Group 7, Alkanes, Alkenes, Halogeoalkanes, Alcohols and Organic analysis.
YEAR 1 AS ASSESSMENT
Assessment in June;
Paper 1 Inorganic and some physical chemistry 50% of the AS grade.
Paper 2 Organic and some physical chemistry 50% of the AS grade.
WHY CHEMISTRY?
Chemistry is an exciting, relevant albeit challenging science, which provides answers to everyday questions through a practical and problem solving approach.
A qualification in chemistry can lead to a wide variety of careers. It is a must if you are thinking of studying dentistry, medicine or chemistry at University and is advantageous for the study of any science or engineering degree. A qualification in chemistry is highly valued and respected by both employers and Universities. It can help you gain entry into the top Universities.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL CHEMISTRY SHOULD BE REFERRED TO MRS WOODHOUSE
Useful weblinks:-
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce15/chemistry/Pages/default.aspx
http://www.knockhardy.org.uk/sci.htm
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405
CHEMISTRY YEAR 13
A Level CHEMISTRY (AQA)
ENTRY REQUIREMENT:-
To complete the A level course a minimum C grade at the end of year 12 (AS) is required.
COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Some of the aims of the AQA Advanced Level GCE in Chemistry are to develop;
- essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- an understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
COURSE CONTENT
Year 1 topics covered plus the following topics:-
Thermodynamics, Rate equations, Period 3, Transition metals, Aldehydes and ketones, Optical Isomerism, Carboxylic acids and their derivatives, Aromatic chemistry, Amino acids, proteins and DNA, Polymers, Amines, Organic synthesis, NMR and Chromatography.
A LEVEL ASSESSMENT
External assessment in June;
Paper 1:- Inorganic chemistry, practical skills, some physical chemistry and Year 1 topics 35% of the A level
Paper 2:-Organic chemistry, practical skills and some physical chemistry and Year 1 topics 35% of the A level.
Paper 1 & 2 have short and long answer questions worth 105 marks.
Paper 3:- all topics and practical questions 30% of the A level. 40 marks will be on questions on practical techniques and data analysis, 20 marks questions across the specification and 30 marks will be multiple choice questions.
Practical assessment A level only
Practical competency will be assessed separately internally and students will be awarded a practical endorsement
WHY CHEMISTRY?
Chemistry is an exciting, relevant albeit challenging science, which provides answers to everyday questions through a practical and problem solving approach.
A qualification in chemistry can lead to a wide variety of careers. It is a must if you are thinking of studying medicine or chemistry at University and is advantageous for the study of any science or engineering degree. A qualification in chemistry is highly valued and respected by both employers and Universities. It can help you gain entry into the top Universities.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL CHEMISTRY SHOULD BE REFERRED TO MRS WOODHOUSE
Useful weblinks
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405
PHYSICS YEAR 12
AS Level Physics (EDEXCEL)
MINIMUM PREFERRED ENTRYREQUIREMENTS
Minimum 7 7 in Combined Science (Pearson)
(7 7 6 in GSCE Physics, Chemistry and Biology with a 7 in GCSE Physics)
7 in GCSE Maths (Higher Paper)
6 in GCSE English Language
Concurrent enrolement in A level Maths is preferred
Grade C or higher in AS Physics is required to progress to A2.
AIMS
During the course you will have opportunities to:
- Essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- Competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- Their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- An understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society
COURSE CONTENT
AS – Theories and practical applications of the following:
Paper 1: Core Physics I- Mechanics and Electricity
Paper 2: Core Physics II- Materials, Waves and Particles Nature of Light
ASSESSMENT
AS - 2 written papers each worth 50% of AS
WHY PHYSICS?
Physics is both a theoretical and practical subject which will provide you with a sound basis for any career path that you may choose.
It is a highly respected subject and is held in high esteem by employers.
It is a must if you want to study a physical science or engineering at university and is advantageous for other subjects such as medicine or finance.
It is a challenging A level which you will find both simulating and exhilarating as it will answer many questions about how the world works and provide you with many useful skills.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL PHYSICS SHOULD BE REFERRED TO MRS NORTHAM
PHYSICS YEAR 13
A Level Physics (EDEXCEL)
REQUIREMENTS
Grade C or higher in AS Physics is required to progress to A2.
AIMS
During the course you will have opportunities to:
- Essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- Competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
- Their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- An understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society
COURSE CONTENT
A level – Theories and practical applications of the following:
Paper 1: Advanced Physics I- Mechanics, Electric Circuits, Further Mechanics, Electric and Magnetic Fields, Nuclear and Particle Physics
Paper 2: Advanced Physics II- Materials, Waves and Particles Nature of Light, Thermodynamics, Space, Nuclear Radiation, Gravitational Fields, Oscillations
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Physics
ASSESSMENT
A level - 3 external written papers, 2 worth 30% each and 1 worth 40% of the A level
WHY PHYSICS?
Physics is both a theoretical and practical subject which will provide you with a sound basis for any career path that you may choose.
It is a highly respected subject and is held in high esteem by employers.
It is a must if you want to study a physical science or engineering at university and is advantageous for other subjects such as medicine or finance.
It is a challenging A level which you will find both simulating and exhilarating as it will answer many questions about how the world works and provide you with many useful skills.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A-LEVEL PHYSICS SHOULD BE REFERRED TO MRS NORTHAM