Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Science
Head of Department: Mrs Kate Hopkinson B. Ed.
The subject of science continues to occupy a key position in the National Curriculum. It is a subject under scrutiny and review to ensure that it still retains it's relevance in the modern world.
With the evolution of new technologies the subject of science has become increasingly important in the every day lives of citizens of this country. An understanding of modern science is essential in order to understand the issues facing the modern world. 90% of all known substances have been created by science, and it contributes hugely to the economic success of this country.
Key Stage Three.
Here all pupils are taught in mixed ability tutor groups. One teacher will cover all three science subject areas. Throughout Key Stage three we follow the national curriculum in order to provide the best preparation for GCSE. Pupils build on their knowledge and understanding form Key Stage 2 to try and explain scientific ideas and events.
A variety of learning styles are used but central to the curriculum is practical work. All pupils are encouraged to carry out investigations of many different types, on their own and in groups, drawing conclusions from the work and evaluating their results.
Key Stage Four.
Here we follow the OCR 21st century science specification. During Year 10 all pupils complete the Core Science specification, and during Year 11 the Additional Science specification. In addition to this all pupils have the option of taking "Extra Science" at the end of year 9 so that they will achieve 3 science GCSEs over the two years, one in each of Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
The Core Science curriculum emphasises scientific literacy- the knowledge and understanding which candidates need to engage, as informed citizens, with science-based issues.
Additional science is a concept based course developed to meet the needs of candidates seeking a deeper understanding of basic scientific issues.
If the individual sciences are studied, these provide an opportunity for further developing an understanding of science explanations, how science works and the study of elements of applied science, with particular relevance to professional scientists.
A Level
Pupils are able to study A levels in all the three individual sciences of Biology Chemistry and Physics. The small class groups enable a variety of learning techniques to be employed and some excellent results have been obtained. Sixth form is an area of focus within the department and we are extremely keen here to encourage pupils to continue science to A level and beyond.
Biology
Biology is an exciting subject! To learn how your own body works, or how and why we should protect our environment and develop a respect for all living things should stimulate everyone. Our courses aim to embrace such contemporary issues while delivering the requirements for key stage 3, GCSE and A level. In particular we aim to:
- Enable pupils/students to acquire a systemic body of knowledge, and the skills to apply this in an ever changing world.
- To plan and carry out scientific investigations developing skills to consider and evaluate critically their own data and that obtained from other sources.
- To view data critically from own investigations and where gathered from research.
- How to use sources to research various topics and to plan an investigation.
- To select, organise and present information clearly and logically using scientific terms, units and conventions.
- To recognise the value and responsible use of biology in society;
- To sustain and develop their enjoyment of, and interest in, biology.
Syllabuses Taught:
- Year 7-9 Biology delivered within KS3 course
- GCSE: OCR Biology Syllabus A
- OCR Science Syllabus A
- A level: AQA Biology
GCSE Biology:
In Years 7-9 biology is taught within a combined course leading to the key stage examinations at the end of Year 9. After this, pupils will have the opportunity to opt for the Double Award Science or separate GCSE grades in biology, chemistry and physics. Pupils following the separate sciences will receive 7 extra lessons per fortnight to study the extra topics. Pupils will be entered in the Spring Term of Year 11 for either Foundation or Higher tier papers. The higher tier paper assesses pupils working within grade A* to D, and the Foundation paper within grades C to G. Coursework comprises 33.3% of the course, and is usually carried out in the Summer Term of Year 10 or Autumn Term of Year 11.
GCSE Topics:
Year 10: You and your genes; Keeping healthy; Life on Earth.
Year 11: Homeostasis, Growth and development; Brain and mind.
Pupils studying for Biology (and not Double Science) learn the following topics across Year 10 and 11: Interdependence between living organisms; Photosynthesis; New technologies; Respiration; Circulation and skeletal system.
AS level Biology Course Structure:
Unit 1 Biology and Disease 33% of the course; 16% of the full A level
Unit 2 The Variety of Living Organisms 46% of the course; 23% of the full A level
Unit 3 Practical & Investigative Skills 20% of the course;10% of the full A level
AS course work and module scores 50% of the course
Unit 4 Populations and Environment 16% of the course
Unit 5 Control in Cells & in Organisms 23% of the course
Unit 6 Practical & Investigative Skills 10% of the course
Physics at The Park
Whether you want to be an astronaut or automotive engineer, a doctor or a digibox designer then studying physics is the first step towards a career in any technical or engineering field. At the Park School you will receive the personal care and attention you need to stretch your horizons and achieve at the highest level. Physics remains an integral part of the modern key stage 3 science curriculum and forms part of the OCR 21st Century Science Suite.
GCSE Physics.
Should you choose extra science in your GCSE options then you will be on the path to a separate GCSE in physics. In parallel to your core and additional science studies you will explore module 7 – A window on the stars. This extra GCSE physics module will introduce classical astronomy, optics, telescopes and the life of stars!
The Physics GCSE also comprises 33.3% coursework, completed in two formats. An investigation and data exercise, and a detailed research report into a topical scientific issue.
A Level Physics
Syllabus: GCE level: AQA Physics Specification A
At A level, pupils are challenged to expand their understanding of the physical world form Quasars to Quantum Particles. Following this brand new and up to the minute syllabus, students will study all the classical physics needed for careers such as engineering, architecture and medicine. At both AS and A2 level students develop their practical and experimental skills through selected experiments and coursework assignments.
AS Physics course structure:
Unit 1 Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity 40% of the AS; 20% of the A level
Unit 2 Mechanics, Materials and Waves 40% of the AS; 23% of the A level
Unit 3 Practical & Investigative Skills 20% of the AS; 10% of the A level
A2 Physics Course Structure:
Unit 4 Fields and Further Mechanics 20% of the A level
Unit 5 Option unit, Applied Physics or Astrophysics. 20% of the A level
Unit 6 Practical & Investigative Skills 10% of the A level
Study Physics at 'The Park' and see your horizons grow!
