Science
Intent:
The purpose of our Key Stage 3 scheme is to provide robust foundations to allow students to develop into analytical, methodical, and innately inquisitive scientists. The three disciplines are split into topics which are introduced in Year 7 and built upon in Year 8, covering the Big Ideas of Science (as outlined by ASE). Students are encouraged to examine the consequences of scientific discoveries, and develop opinions based upon fact, with the intent of developing informed and scientifically confident citizens of the world.
The aim of Year 9 is to bridge the gap between Key Stage 3 and GCSE, further developing students’ knowledge and investigative abilities. The chosen topics allow students to dive deeper into the 10 Big Ideas, first introduced in Key Stage 3. The sequence of topics allows students to connect knowledge from all three disciplines of science, whilst the time dedicated to independently led investigative approaches promotes curiosity and resilience when discovering answers to posed questions.
Teaching is focused on the scientific method and students are given opportunities within lessons to build the necessary skills to suggest a hypothesis, collate valid data and make logical conclusions, using knowledge imparted to them. Students are assessed both on ability to recall knowledge and apply this knowledge to both ‘real world’ and investigative science. Good habits are re-enforced at every possible opportunity: scientific language is used, maths skills are modelled, recall of key knowledge is reinforced and students are given opportunities to both ask and answer questions using experimental approaches.
Our Key Stage 4 students follow the AQA GCSE specification. Throughout Year 10, knowledge from previous years is built upon as new content is introduced in line with the Trilogy or Separate science specifications. Students are encouraged to interleave new knowledge with revision from previous years through cross-curricular links. This instils aspiration, resilience and empowerment in all students, allowing them to take ownership of their learning outside the classroom and develop the necessary study skills that will aid them, not only in other subjects, but also as they continue into the next stages of their education, thus improving life chances for students.
Teaching is blocked into the three disciplines, which are taught in sequences to allow interleaving and opportunities for revision and making links between topics wherever possible. Scientific skills are further developed from Key Stage 3 and are taught wherever possible along with the AQA required practicals. Students are given regular formative assessments to monitor progress with skills and topics and allow for early intervention where necessary.
