Science
Head of Department/Faculty
Mr Andrew Pearson
Head of Science
apearson@commonweal.co.uk
Overview
At Commonweal, we study Science to…
- Understand the world around us and our impact on it, so that students are equipped to reshape the world for the benefit of all.
- Gain the knowledge to make informed, healthy choices by understanding the human body and the impact of lifestyle choices.
- Ensure students achieve high-value qualifications and learn the skills necessary to access exciting and rewarding career pathways.
- Learn to think critically, evaluate evidence and make informed decisions.
- Learn how to assess risk and keep ourselves and each other safe.
- Learn how to use technical vocabulary to be able to communicate effectively.
Tops Tips to do well in Science
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Learn the key words and their meanings.
There will be regular key word meaning tests!
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Learn the physics equations and how to rearrange them.
There is a list of 19 physics equations to be memorised in every science room.
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Use the revision guide and workbook.
The CGP guides are available from the science department at half their retail price.
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Consolidate your learning after every Science lesson by reading back through your exercise book and referring to your revision guide.
If you are not sure about anything ask your teacher for help.
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Respond to the Even Better If/red dot comments in your exercise book.
Students who read and respond to teacher feedback progress faster in science. The Green pen of power is useful for student comments!
The Curriculum
KS3 – Year 7, 8 and the first half of year 9:
The KS3 Science curriculum is based on a study of the key models that underpin scientific understanding, such as cells, particles, forces and energy. Alongside this, students will be taught the skills they need to work scientifically. They will learn to use equipment with accuracy and precision, to work as a team, to plan their time and resources effectively and about the wide variety of ways in which results can be presented.
In year 7, students will be introduced them to the laboratory environment and to some of the skills needed when working scientifically. They will cover the three sciences – Biology, Chemistry and Physics – on a rota, with topics centred around key models.
Year 7 topics:
- Cell systems, movement and organs
- Energy in ecosystems
- Separating substances
- Chemical reactions
- Energy
- Forces
In years 8 and the first half of year 9 students study topics that look at ways in which the 4 key models interrelate. These are:
- Reproduction and health
- Genetics and evolution
- Physical and chemical changes
- Atoms and the periodic table
- Physical model and machines
- Waves and fields
Throughout KS3 and 4 students’ will be assessed continually. They will receive regular feedback about their progress and given next steps for improvement. Students can expect to complete two formal assessments each year, as well as one piece of work each term that is formally marked, assessed and given feedback.
KS4 – Second half of year 9, year 10 and 11:
At KS4 students’ study for the Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9–1) Science GCSEs:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/sciences-2016.html
Up until the end of year 10 all students are taught the full breadth of the Science curriculum. At this point, in consultation with students and parents/carers, a decision is made about which pathway gives each individual student the best chance of success:
Pathway 1: Separate Science GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Pathway 2: Higher Tier Combined Science GCSEs
Pathway 3: Foundation Tier Combined Science GCSEs
Pathway 4: Foundation Tier Combined Science GCSEs and Entry Level Science
Students’ learning goes beyond the Science examination specification by:
- A focus on literacy: Everybody Reads and Talk for Writing.
- Global learning through Values and Skills.
- Careers link to topics being taught.
Assessment overview
All students sit their GCSE exams at the end of year 11. Every student completes a total of 6 exams: 2 Biology, 2 Chemistry and 2 Physics.
- Combined Science exams are 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Separate Science exams are 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Details can be found on the Edexcel website:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/sciences-2016.html
Independent learning
Homework is used for retrieval practice. Student should be regularly revisiting content from their Science lessons so that they don’t forget what they have learnt! Homework can be set via online platforms such as Seneca or Carousel, using revision guides or workbooks, or worksheets/past papers. As students get older they are encouraged to become independent learners and set themselves revision tasks.
Enrichment and trip possibilities
- STEM club
- British Science Week events
- Big Bang trip
- RIAT trip
- Marwell Zoo trip
- Big Cat Sanctuary trip (C6 Biology)
