Science

We deliver an exciting spiral curriculum, in which skills and knowledge are developed in strands which feed into our GCSE program of study. Students are empowered to develop their memory and recall through frequent links with prior learning, and practical and investigative skills are interweaved with theory in order to promote the development of a sound and thorough understanding of key concepts together with analytical and evaluative skills required for success in science.

Assessment via topic tests at the end of each strand has the twofold aim of developing strong retrieval of core facts as well as the application of knowledge through extended writing, calculation practice and analysis. During the course of each year, students develop their scientific enquiry skills through planning, undertaking and evaluating a full practical investigation.

Biology

• Cells

• Medicine and Disease

• Genetics and Ecology

Chemistry

• Chemical change

• Structure and Bonding

• Environmental and Industrial Chemistry

Physics

• Motion, Forces and Radiation

• Electricity and Waves

• Energy and Matter

Students have already started learning about the key concepts of Biology, Chemistry and Physics during Year 9 and begun to develop their investigative skills. From Year 10 onwards students will follow a learning pathway which is designed to maximise their achievement by the end of Year 11. These pathways allow students to explore and investigate the world of Science and develop a fuller understanding of scientific phenomena, the nature of fundamental theories, and the procedures of scientific investigation.

It is our intention that throughout Key Stage 4:

• All students will receive a balanced scientific education in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

• All students will work towards a minimum of two GCSEs in Science.

• All students will work at a level that is designed both to provide a challenge academically and also stimulate an interest in Science leading to the opportunity for further study in Science at Langley Park School for Girls.

The following pathways are offered:

3 GCSEs: Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Triple Science)

2 GCSEs: Combined Science

The Courses: GCSE (all AQA)

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Combined Science (Trilogy)

All the specifications listed above build upon the Key Stage 3 Curriculum, adding depth and context. There is also a focus on the development of practical skills, and the application of How Science Works: this focuses on the scientific method and the role that science plays in everyday life.

• GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy) consists of 3 distinct units of study: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

• Each GCSE includes required practical and investigative activities.

• Each GCSE is fully assessed by written examinations at the end of the course.

Students will be given the opportunity to select Triple Science (for separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics) as one of their option choices. Places on the Triple Science course are limited and will be allocated on the basis of a formal assessment. (Options code: Triple Sci GCSE 9 – 1 Full Course)

Course Description:

‘A modern, relevant and exciting course that engages students, takes account of the many recent advances in biology and makes use of the most appropriate teaching approaches and technologies to enable students to learn’. Michael Reiss (Director of the Salters-Nuffield Advanced Biology Project)

Skills Required:

• Ability to learn and retain factual information

• Ability to think clearly and interpret information

• Ability to use initiative to research information independently

• Ability to manipulate practical equipment and follow experimental procedures

• Ability to design and carry out investigations

Method of Assessment:

Paper 1: The Natural Environment and Species Survival (2 hours) - 33.33% of total marks.

Paper 2: Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination (2 hours) - 33.33% of total marks.

Paper 3: General and Practical Applications in Biology (2 hours) - 33.33% of total marks.

Practical skills will be assessed throughout the two years

Progression:

The study of Biology and other A-Level Sciences can lead to a variety of careers, not necessarily involving further study of science. Biology would be needed for further study or careers in the fields of Zoology, Botany, Veterinary work, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Environmental Science, Genetics and Medicine.

The course is designed to bring Chemistry to life and provides a stimulating and worthwhile range of experiences which will engage your interest in the study of Chemistry. We will encourage you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other, developing and demonstrating a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods, understanding how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

Chemistry is a practical subject and the development of practical skills is fundamental to understanding the nature of Chemistry. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and they are assessed both through written papers and the Practical Endorsement.

Skills Required:

The main activities in which the students are engaged are:

• Solving problems using concepts.

• Solving problems using mathematical techniques.

• Using practical techniques to investigate the behaviour of materials.

• Looking for and using patterns in the behaviour of substances.

• Studying the applications of chemistry in selected fields, together with their social and economic aspects.

Method of Assessment:

The A-Level is assessed through three written examinations at the end of the two-year course. The examination papers will include multiple choice questions, short answer question styles (structured questions, problem solving, calculations, practical techniques and data analysis) and extended response questions. Stretch and challenge questions will support the awarding of the A* grade at A-Level. All three written examinations contain some synoptic assessment.

Progression:

Chemistry is an essential subject for many degree courses including Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Nutrition, Food Science, Metallurgy, Materials Science, Agriculture and Chemical Engineering. Study of Chemistry at A-Level can also lead to a wide variety of degree courses and careers, not necessarily involving further study of science.

Course Description:

This course is designed to lead on from GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Physics and aims to embed fundamental physical concepts and develop those areas of Physics which are most relevant to the modern world. Teaching is concept-based with an emphasis placed on the solving of problems and the application of knowledge in new and challenging situations. In Year 12, we teach Mechanics, Materials, Electric Circuit, Waves and the Particle Nature of Light. In Year 13, we cover topics such as Particle Physics, Astrophysics, Thermodynamics, Oscillations, and Electromagnetic Machines. We complete 16 core practicals over the two-year course.

Skills Required:

Students need to be curious about the world around them. They will need a strong mathematical ability, be able to think independently and to be able to produce logical written arguments and explanations in clear English.

Method of Assessment:

The examinations at the end of Year 13 will cover topics from all units and these will provide a final grade for the A-Level. There are two 105 minute papers worth 90 marks each, and one paper of 150 minutes worth 120 marks. Students will also gain a practical accreditation when they complete the core practicals.

Progression:

Physics would be required for courses and careers in Physics, Astrophysics, Medical Physics and Engineering. It is also a facilitating subject for many other degrees and careers such as Law, Economics, Medicine and Journalism.

Course Description:

This course consists of units of study which are adapted to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in a variety of sectors including biomedical sciences, nursing, sports science, forensics, lab technical work or research. Learners on the course will study five units. These will include in-depth study of Biology, Chemistry and Physics leading to exams, as well as coursework-based units focusing on experimental and scientific investigative skills and looking at how scientists develop and communicate ideas in modern society. During the course you will visit and gain experience in external science organisations and industry and attend talks.

Skills Required:

An interest in science and associated professions, as well as a commitment to hard work are required. Students will also need to be enthusiastic, able to organise their time effectively and work as part of a team.

Method of Assessment:

Overall there is a roughly 50:50 mix of examined and coursework based content. Coursework tasks may include case studies, information booklets, essays, discussion based exercises and presentations. Two or three of the units will be externally assessed by written exams. This course offers a student-centred approach and provides opportunities for students who lack confidence in examinations to gain important UCAS points through coursework completed throughout the year.

Progression:

This qualification is primarily designed to support progression to applied science and related employment after further study at university. However, it also supports students progressing directly to employment when applying for a range of entry-level industry training programmes and/or Higher Apprenticeships in science and industry, such as engineering or laboratory science technician, the NHS or the education sector. The requirements of the Applied Science qualification will mean that students develop the transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by higher education and employers.

Course Description:

The Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) in Human Biology is a pathway to a career in Health Sciences. It provides learners with a solid foundation for progression into Health and Health Science sectors. Example career options include Medical Sciences, Occupational Therapy, allied Health and Sciences including Life Sciences, Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Physiological Sciences and much more. Through the course’s fundamentally student-centred approach, students are able to gain valuable insights and experience in a range of settings including hospitals, industry, research institutes and community healthcare.

The course gives students a broad understanding of biological principles including cells, tissues and practical microbiology. This course is ideal for students who thrive in an engaging and hands-on style of learning with less reliance on examinations. 

Skills Required:

Enthusiasm and a keen interest in Health Science and associated professions are key to succeeding in this course. A commitment to hard work and the ability to work as part of a team are important skills. Good research and investigative techniques will support you in the completion of coursework, along with the ability to organise your time effectively.

Method of Assessment:

This course offers a student-centred approach and provides opportunities for students who lack confidence in examinations to gain important UCAS points through coursework completed throughout the year. Assessment is an even mix of externally set and marked exams and internally assessed coursework units (including case studies, information booklets, essays, discussion based exercises and presentations).

Progression:

The AAQ in Human Biology carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to admission requirements of many relevant applied Human Biology/Health Science courses. When combined with other qualifications within a two year study programme, such as A-Levels, learners can progress into higher education, such as: Occupational Health, Nursing, Midwifery or Sport Science.