Science GCSE Options Information

What is the main aim of the course?

To continue to develop foundational scientific knowledge, understanding of key concepts and skills in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Our guiding principle is to help build science capital among students, facilitating them on their journey to become future scientists or citizens of science and empowered to scientifically question the world around them.  

What will you learn?

We want you to continue developing a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena, by using existing and new found knowledge to understand and critically analyse them.  
You will learn the skills needed to communicate science using sophisticated scientific vocabulary, articulating your understanding about key concepts and how they link to the world around us. You will continue to learn science as three specialisms - Biology, Chemistry and Physics in addition to scientific thinking, mathematical and practical skills embedded into lessons. 
In Biology you will continue to add depth and breadth to your knowledge and understanding of cell biology, plant and animal transport systems, health and disease, nervous and hormonal coordination, photosynthesis, ecosystems, genetics and evolution. 
In Chemistry you will take the next steps in your learning about atomic structure and the periodic table, chemical structure and bonding, chemical reactions and the energy changes that occur, conducting chemical analysis, industrial chemistry and the earth and our atmosphere. 
In Physics you will continue your learning journey in relation to energy, the nature of matter and radioactivity, forces and motion, waves and the electromagnetic spectrum, magnetism, electricity and its link to electromagnetism, and space physics (separate science only). 
 

How is the course assessed?

We use a multi-faceted approach to assessment in science and includes regular online revision and exam question practice, end of unit tests and formal mock examinations across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. 
The final GCSE examinations make up 100% of the final assessment grades. 
 

How does this course connect to the world of work and allow students to reach ambitious destinations?
 

A key component of the science capital teaching approach, involves clearly signposting how knowledge and concepts learnt in lessons links to topical issues facing society and examples of pathways to careers in these areas. 
Science is a seven year journey at SRWA, with opportunities to participate in high profile research and enrichment projects along the way. This makes the learning of the content more relevant to current advances in science, and develops the ASPIRE attributes that employers and top universities expect from young scientists aiming to embark on a career in a STEM subject.   

Who do you need to contact if you have any further questions about this course?

Mr D Harman, dharman@srwa.woodard.co.uk