Science
The science curriculum at Sir John Leman High School is diverse to meet the needs of all students inclusive of ability, interest and future aspirations.
KS3
The intent of the Science Curriculum
The Science Curriculum at Sir John Leman High School is diverse to meet the needs of all students inclusive of ability, interest and future aspirations. At KS3 students follow a context based scheme of work with topics such as Strange Star, Northern Lights, Jurassic Park and Night at the Museum. The scheme of work is designed to develop an inquiring mind and spark and interest in the subject as well as cover all the key concepts of Chemistry, Physics and Biology required to build on at KS4. Our aim is to build the work done at KS2 and prepare students for GCSE Science and living in the ever changing world around them.
How is the Science Curriculum implemented?
In Years 7 and 8 students will study a topic for ten lessons. The first nine lessons will be a blend of Biology, Chemistry and Physics linked to the topic in a contextual way. The tenth lesson will be a written assessment. There are two levels of assessment to allow all pupils to be successful in their own right.
Every 4 lessons they will also complete an assessed learning. This is their opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and improve on it. They are self-assessed and allow students the opportunity to experience exam style questions and develop their skills in answering them.
Curriculum Road Map - Science
Curriculum Sequencing Plan - Science
The impact of the Science Curriculum at the end of Key Stage 3
Interlaced amongst the Science content, we develop an understanding of the world of work, linking our lessons to future career opportunities where we can. We have strong links to local industry and have opportunities for students to visit places like Cefas, Sizewell and UEA and have strong STEM representation at all careers events. We run a birdwatch event every year and have a horticulture club available in the Spring and Summer terms. We also run a STEM fortnight for students every year to encourage them in considering STEM related careers. We have visitors from many local companies including the Energy industry, local hospitals and healthcare providers and local Engineering Companies.
Our aim is to offer all students as many STEM career related opportunities as we can to show students the link between learning and their future.
Career Directions could include:
Science careers include medical jobs such as a Nurse, Doctor, Radiographer to jobs in Meteorology such as a weather man. Students can work in research laboratories such as Cancer Research UK or even local laboratories like CEFAS. Science can open many doors.
How can I help my child?
- Encourage them to do their best with their homework.
- Encourage and help them to revise.
- Communicate with teachers and support their efforts with your child.
- Be aware of deadlines and dates.
- Encourage the use of regular revision using website such as BBC Bitesize and SAM learning.
- Ask them about Science articles in the news and let them tell you what they know.
- Check emails.
Useful Resources:
- Edexcel Website – GCSE Science
- AQA Website – A Level Biology, Chemistry and Physics
- Edexcel Website – BTEC Applied Science
- BBC Bitesize - https://www.bbc.co.uk/education.levels/z98jmp3
KS4
The intent of the Science Curriculum
GCSE Science focuses on the three core elements of science, Chemistry, Physics and Biology. The aim of the course is to develop students wider understanding of the world around them and be able to see it from a scientific perspective. From how plants produce the oxygen we breath to wiring a plug, Science enables students to have a better grasp of how the world works.
How is the Science Curriculum implemented?
Science is a heavily practical subject which both motivates students and enables them to investigate the scientific principles around them. Most lessons will involve practical work, developing exam skills, writing longer factual prose, mathematical skills and developing practical technique. We are also very creative and students will use video camera and ICT to develop their learning.
Curriculum Road Map - Science
The impact of the Science Curriculum at the end of Key Stage 4
How is it examined?
Combined Science - 6 x 1 hour 10 minute exams in year 11
Triple Science - 6 x 1 hour 45 minute exams in year 11
How important is the Non-Examined Assessment (NEA)?
We have no NEA but students will need to complete a series of core practicals that students will be examined on as part of their year 11 exams.
What qualifications will I get? What could it lead to?
GCSE Combined Science (2 GCSEs)
GCSE Triple Science (3 GCSEs)
Career directions could include:
Science careers include medical jobs such as a Nurse, Doctor, Radiographer to jobs in Meteorology such as a weather man. Students can work in research laboratories such as Cancer Research UK or even local laboratories like CEFAS. Forensics is a popular choice with students as is vetinary nursing or surgery. Science can open many doors.
Useful Resources:
Specification from Edexcel - https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/sciences-2016.html
BBC Bitesize - https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zrkw2hv
SAM Learning - www.samlearning.com
Remember you can also check the Exam Board website for past papers.
Applied Science (KS5)
Applied Science – Level 3 Extended Certificate
Examining Body:
Edexcel
Entry Criteria:
Grade 4 / 4 or above in combined science, Grade 4 in at least one separate science or a Pass in L2 BTEC Applied Science
Course Leader:
Miss R Harrison
Why?:
An A level equivalent Science course that allows students to study elements of all three sciences. Traditionally a vocational option, the course is very practical in its structure and students will develop excellent practical skills alongside a sound knowledge of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Two units are assessed by completion of practical based assignments and two units are externally assessed by examination. This course allows students to gain UCAS points for university or enter other aspects of science based industries at apprentice level. It is globally recognised by universities, colleges and professional institutions. Students can gain a pass, merit, distinction or distinction* grade. This course is suitable for all GCSE and BTEC science students, allowing them to work at their own level. A high proportion will achieve an equivalent A Level C grade or higher.
Course Structure:
The BTEC Level 3 Extended certificate is broadly equivalent to one GCE A Level qualification at the following levels:
• Pass = Grade E (16 UCAS Points)
• Merit = Grade C (32 UCAS Points)
• Distinction = Grade A (48 UCAS Points)
• Distinction* = Grade A* (56 UCAS Points) All students must take all four units.
Year 1:
• Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science. Externally assessed by 3 x 40 minute exams.
• Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques. Internally assessed coursework.
Year 2:
• Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills. Externally assessed practical investigation.
• Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems. Internally assessed coursework
Extended Learning:
Students will be expected to research various areas outside normal lesson times and complete coursework, especially if they are aiming to achieve a Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.
Curriculum Road Map - Applied Science
Biology (KS5)
Biology – A-Level Qualification
Examining Body:
AQA
Entry Criteria:
Ideally Grade 6 / 6 GCSE Combined Science or Grade 6 GCSE Biology plus, Grade 5 GCSE Mathematics. Students not meeting these criteria may be accepted after interview
Course Leader:
Mrs A Riley
Why? :
This course is academically rigorous and provides an excellent pathway to undergraduate degrees in medicine, midwifery, radiography, Life Science, Environmental Science, Forensic Science or similar courses. Biology is the study of life, whether it be human, animal or plant. our approach to Biology is very practical and we use an experimental approach to enrich learning as well as to prepare students for university or scientific sector employment. As a department we have a wealth of experience both academically and practically and we believe that this enriches the teaching of the course. Students considering this course should be self-motivated, well organised and extremely hard working.
Course Structure:
Students will study eight topics over the two year course. these are: biological molecules, cells, organisms that exchange substances with their environment, genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms, energy transfers in and between organisms, organisms that respond to changes in their internal and external environments, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression. In addition, students complete twelve required practicals over the two years. These are integrated into the relevant teaching modules and students may be assessed on their knowledge, understanding and application of these practicals in all three written exams.
Assessment:
Paper 1: Any content from topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (91 marks) 35% of A-level
Paper 2: Any content from topics 5–8, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (91 marks) 35% of A-level
Paper 3: Any content from topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (78 marks) 30% of A-level
Extended Learning:
Students will be provided with a booklet at the start of each topic which lays out the learning outcomes of each lesson and includes a selection of past paper exam questions on this topic. The learning outcomes are based on segments of the specification and are written as questions for students to answer. Students should make notes on these outcomes and complete the examination questions. These will then be marked during the final lesson of the topic to develop exam technique as well as consolidate knowledge.
Curriculum Road Map - Biology
Chemistry (KS5)
Chemistry – A-Level Qualification
Examining Body:
AQA
Entry Criteria:
Ideally grade 6 / 6 GCSE Combined Science or Grade 6 GCSE Chemistry plus, ideally, Grade 6 GCSE Mathematics. Students not meeting these criteria may be accepted after interview
Course Leader:
Mrs J Hartnell
Why? :
Chemistry is the study of the materials that make up everything. This ranges from plastics and metals to medicines and living things. It links well with biology, physics, geography and maths but can be studied independent of these. Chemists are involved in the design of everything you use and work in fields vital to the future: climate change, energy, food production and water. Employment prospects include healthcare, finance, communication and security. The scale of chemistry ranges from the study of subatomic particles as small as an electron to designing and operating oil refineries, power stations and space exploration. As well as learning information to understand these areas, studying chemistry will develop highly-sought skills of problem-solving and logic
Course Structure:
Both years of chemistry are split into 3 main topic areas: physical, inorganic and organic.
During Year 1, physical chemistry covers the structure of the atom, bonding, energy changes, measuring amounts, equilibrium reactions and rates of reaction. Inorganic chemistry covers patterns in the Periodic Table, Groups 2 and 7. Organic chemistry is the study of the compounds of carbon including alkanes, alkenes, halogenoalkanes and alcohols
Year 2 builds further on the topics in Year 1 as well as the chemistry of batteries, acids, bases and buffer solutions, the transition metals and many more organic molecules including aromatics, amino acids, proteins, DNA and polymers. Chromatography is also studied in more detail than at GCSE in Year 2 of the course.
Assessment:
Paper 1 - 2 hours (105 marks) worth 35% of A level. This will assess inorganic and physical chemistry including any relevant practicals.
Paper 2 - 2 hours (105 marks) worth 35% of A level. This will assess organic and physical chemistry including any relevant practicals.
Paper 3 - 2 hours (90 marks) worth 30% of A level. This will be synoptic (anything from the course could be covered) including any relevant practicals
Extended Learning:
There will be a set of prescribed tasks to be completed at home. In addition each teacher sets work specific to the lesson and group, this may be extended reading, writing notes, completing end of chapter questions or preparing for practical work. Students also have booklets of past papers with mark-schemes which are used as extended learning during revision periods. Chemistry is hard work but it is also highly rewarding.
Curriculum Road Map - Chemistry
Physics (KS5)
Physics – A-Level Qualification
Examining Body:
AQA
Entry Criteria:
Grade 6 / 6 GCSE Combined Science or Grade 6 GCSE Physics plus, ideally, Grade 6 GCSE Mathematics. Students not meeting these criteria may be accepted after interview
Course Leader:
Miss R Harrison
Why? :
Physics is a broad, creative subject involving experiments, observations, theory and mathematics, computing, technology, materials and information theory. Physics seeks to answer fundamental questions about what, how and why things are as they are. It is concerned with observing, understanding and making predictions about the world around us and man-made systems. Physics drives development in areas such as chemistry, computing, engineering and materials science. The qualification is highly valued and students go on to a wide range of subjects at university or to train for a diverse range of careers.
Course Structure:
Year 1 students will study the following:
Section 1: Measurements and their errors
Section 2: Particles and radiation - including particles, electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena
Section 3: Waves - including progressive and stationary waves, refraction, diffraction and interference
Section 4: Mechanics - including materials, force, energy and momentum
Section 5: Electricity - including current, voltage and resistance
Year 2 students will study the following:
Section 6: Further mechanics and thermal physics - including periodic motion and thermal physics Section 7: Fields and their consequences - including gravitational fields, electric fields, magnetic fields and capacitance
Section 8: Nuclear physics - including radioactivity
Section 9: Astrophysics - including telescopes, classification of stars and cosmology
A-level assessment: three papers, all assessing module 1 to 6 content.
Paper 1 - Includes sections 1-5 and 6.1. This paper is 2 hours, 85 marks and worth 34% of A Level Paper 2 - Includes sections 6.2, 7 and 8. This paper is 2 hours, 85 marks and worth 34% of A Level Paper 3 - Practical skills, data analysis and section 9. This paper is 2 hours, 80 marks and worth 32% of A level Students’ practical skills are teacher assessed but do not affect the overall grade.
Extended Learning:
Homework booklets made of exam questions to be completed by the end of each section to show progress and to identify areas for improvement. Students should spend a significant amount of time on extended learning and support is offered at lunchtime, during study periods and after school.
Curriculum Road Map - Physics