Science
Subject Leader - Mrs A Taylor
email: annetaylor@pleckgate.blackburn.sch.uk
Key Stage 3:
Pupils are currently studying yearly topics based around the scientific modules - cells, forces, energy, interdependence and particles. Assessment for learning activities and levelled exams are taken yearly. SATs are taken in Year 9 and Booster classes and intervention materials are used to support pupils in this.
From September 2008, Year 7 will follow the New Science KS3 programme of study. This is based on topic centred science modules to fire their curiosity about phenomena in the world about them. They will develop scientific thinking and explore the application and implications of science around the world. Pupils will develop their key skills such as ICT, literacy, communication and independent learning alongside the scientific content - energy and electricity; forces; chemicals and material behaviour; organisms psychology, behaviour and health; the environment and earth and universe. Pupils will be assessed regularly to measure progress and will sit the KS3 SATs at the end of Year 9.
Key Stage 4:
All courses are newly developed from September 2006 and aim to develop knowledge and understanding of how science works, the skill to apply this to familiar and unfamiliar situations and practical, enquiry and data handling skills.
In Year 10 pupils follow the AQA Science A syllabus which covers the core content of the GCSE Programme of Study. It is externally assessed by 6 structured module tests spread over the year which contribute 75% to the final grade. The remaining 25% is based on internally assessed work in a practical context.
In Year 11pupils work towards their second Science GCSE by following an AQA course in either:
Additional Science - extending the knowledge and skills acquired in Year 10. It is assessed by external examination at the end of year (75%) and by internally assessed work similar to that in Year 10 (25%).
Additional Applied Science - is more vocationally based and studies how scientists contribute in the workplace. Pupils study forensic, sports and food science. 60% of their award is based on internally produced portfolio work. The remainder is assessed by external examination at the end of the year.
Future plans include the opportunity to take separate sciences at GCSE. This may be facilitated by fast tracking some pupils to begin GCSE courses in Year 9.
Curriculum
