Science GCSE courses changed in September 2006 introducing a greater focus on how scientists work and how scientific ideas develop. In line with these changes the school offers a choice of two routes to GCSE science qualifications.
1 Core GCSE Science plus GCSE Additional Science (leading to the award of two separate GCSEs but with a study of Biology, Chemistry and Physics).
2 GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics (leading to the award of three separate GCSEs).
Students wishing to study the three separate sciences will have to opt to do so as one of their option choices. The government wishes to encourage more students who achieve level 6 in the science SATs to take separate sciences, there is some statistical evidence that students who study separate science GCSEs achieve higher grades at A level. Students not wishing to study the three separate sciences will automatically follow the Core and Additional Science GCSEs.
GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics (Course Code PBC)
This option can be thought of as analogous to studying the ‘separate sciences’ and students will obtain three GCSEs, one in each science. The core of the course is the same as the Science/Additional Science course but students will also have to study extra ‘extension’ material in each of the three sciences. The extra material extends the breadth of the subject but maintains the same depth as the Science/Additional Science course and provides an additional challenge to those with an interest and ability in science.
The course will be assessed by a combination of practical tasks and modular written papers, throughout years 9 and 10.
This option will prove to be motivating and challenging for those with an interest in the sciences as well as providing excellent basis for study at AS level and beyond. This option should be considered by those with a natural interest in sciences, and those thinking about a future career in science or engineering.
CORE GCSE Science, GCSE Additional Science
This option can be thought of as analogous to studying ‘double science’ and students will obtain a GCSE in Science and a GCSE in Additional Science. The new specifications place an emphasis on ‘how science works’, teaching science through contemporary issues and communication of scientific ideas.
The course will be assessed by a combination of practical tasks and modular written papers. The core GCSE will be examined in Year 9 and the GCSE additional science in Year 10.
Science/Additional Science courses are an interesting and motivating course for students of all abilities. The course should be a worthwhile experience for all students, whether or not they go on to study beyond GCSE level. It will provide a sound basis from which to proceed to AS level study in any of the sciences.
