Students in Key stage 3 begin by studying an opening topic, framed around Alton Towers, that introduces them to basic scientific methodology & the equipment commonly used.
The students then study a range of topics based on the Big Ideas of Science Education. These ideas distil down scientific knowledge into ten guiding principles that can be used to explain a diversity of scientific phenomena. The big ideas are lenses by which we can make sense of the world – an important goal for science education.
Key stage 4 students have access to the AQA GCSE Biology 8461 specification.
All students undertake purposeful practical work using standard scientific protocols to encourage their innate scientific understanding and inclination to question how things work.
Students’ success in science is measured against predetermined criteria which builds upon their strengths, challenges misconceptions and enables them to apply their learning to novel situations.
In order to increase their confidence for tackling exams, GCSE students also undertake regular assessments using past examination questions to familiarise them with exam format, language and question structure.
Ultimately, the study of science is intended to promote scientific literacy and give students the confidence to use their knowledge to make informed choices about actions which may affect their personal health and well-being in the future.