GCSE Science24/01/2008 - Verona Tomlin |
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AQA Core science AQA Additional Science AQA Triple Science Description of subject Core science (Year 10): This covers the new Science Programme of Study (the content of this makes up part of the separate Science awards). This has been developed so that students become more ‘scientifically literate’, i.e. they are able to make reasoned judgements about the science issues which may affect them in their everyday. Additional Science (Year 11): The Additional Science route is appropriate for the majority of students who want to study traditional science. If students are considering A-levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics but do not want to select the separate Sciences they must select this option. They also need to perform well in examinations which make up most of the assessment of this course. Students will obtain two (possibly different) grades; one for GCSE Science and one for GCSE Additional Science. This course builds on the knowledge and skills gained from ‘Core science’. We believe that the core and additional science provide a balanced science curriculum. This ensures appropriate knowledge and skills for seamless progression to AS science subjects. Triple Science (Year 10 and 11): Separate Sciences in Biology, Chemistry and Physics: For those students who have proven ability in Science and are considering a university course or career in the Sciences then the separate Science GCSEs are recommended. This will mean that they will obtain three GCSE grades covering Biology, Chemistry and Physics, each of which might be a different grade. What will I learn? Core science: B1a – Human Biology B1b – Evolution and Environment C1a – Products from Rocks C1b – Oils, Earth and Atmosphere P1a – Energy and Electricity P1b – Radiation and the Universe Additional Science: B2 – Biology C2 – Chemistry P2 – Physics Triple Science: Core and Additional Content + B3 – Biology C3 – Chemistry P3 - Physics How will I be assessed? Core Science: Six 30 minutes (tiered) objective tests, two in November, March and June worth 75%. Additional Science: Three 45 minute papers (tiered) containing structured questions worth 75%. Triple Science: Each separate science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) qualification has : Two 30 minute objective tests (tiered) and two 45 minute written papers (tiered). Centre assessed unit: Core, Additional and Triple science all have a centre assessed aspect that is worth 25% of the GCSE. The assessment has two parts: PSA – assesses the students’ ability to work in an organised and safe manner whilst working practically in a laboratory. ISA – assesses the student’s ability to undertake a task and collect, process and evaluate data. Students carry out a practical task set by AQA, under normal laboratory conditions, they the take a written test under controlled conditions. What extras costs may be involved? (this is for field trips, specialist equipment etc) Students may have the opportunity to participate in science trips during the year. Each trip will have its own costs and parents will be informed of these by letters. Future opportunities (ie progression details, Physics leads to Engineering etc) The course prepares students for progression onto A/S level science courses. The development of science in a modern society is essential for economic growth. It increasingly plays a part in our everyday lives. The list of career opportunities is almost endless. They range from the medical profession, ie doctor, nurse, pharmacist, public health and dentistry, to construction engineering, chemical engineering and mechanical engineering. Opportunities also occur in computing, electronics, telecommunications and electrical engineering. Scientists also form an important part of the aerospace industry, industrial chemical manufacturing, textiles and car industry. |
