Science

Outline Of Course:

Content:

AQA Core Science A. There are 6 Modules divided evenly between Biological, Chemical and Physical topics. All the modules are tested by Multiple?choice Module test (75% of marks). The Modules are: B1a Human Biology, B1b Evolution and Environment, C1a Products from Rocks, C1b Oils, Earth and Atmosphere, P1a Energy and Energy Resources, P1b Radiation and the Universe. They lead to a Single GCSE in Core Science.

Homework Activities / Revision Advice:

At least 1 written homework per week plus 1 revision homework. Usually in the form of research, note taking or answering questions. Pupils should begin revision almost immediately as the first Module tests (set by the examination board AQA) occur at the end of November and the majority of pupils will be sitting two or three of these. Pupils are recommended to purchase the relatively inexpensive revision guides.

Assessed Coursework:

The assessed coursework is the Investigative Skills Assessment (ISA) which counts 25% of the marks. Pupils will do a number of these during the year, related to the subject material being covered at the time, and their best mark will be entered to the exam board. These assessments are almost exclusively based on the "How Science Works" section of the textbook (as are a proportion of the Module test questions) so students are therefore strongly advised to ensure they are fully familiar with this and in particular the vocabulary.

Examination Entry Requirements;

Module tests on three occasions during Year 10 (November / December, March and June) consisting of multiple choice questions.

Pupils are automatically entered for Module tests, as and when they have covered the modules in class. Whilst the Year 10 Core Science course is not differentiated into Foundation and Higher material, the Module tests do have Foundation and Higher sections. The Level of Module to be taken will be governed by staff advice but students con also make their own decision on the day.

Teacher Expectations:

Every pupil to give of his/her best. All homework to be fully completed and handed in on time. All Module tests and exams to be fully revised for. Pupils to read the relevant sections of their textbooks as they cover each section. All pupils to come fully equipped for lessons e.g. books, pens, etc.

Parental Contribution.

Monitor work set in Homework planner to ensure completion. Take note of dates of module tests to encourage thorough revision and avoid pupils missing tests. Encourage students to watch Science based programmes. (Horizon etc). whenever this is convenient to the family as a whole and does not interfere with Homework.

Useful Resources And Equipment:

Calculators are always helpful (but pupils should be able to do the calculations in their head/on paper before they use them purely to save time). The department recommends a specific CGP revision guide as an optional extra, but others ore available to purchase commercially. (The Letts series is useful).