Science
Subject introduction
Head of Department: Mr Amrit Aujla
The department has eight teaching staff and three technicians:
- Mrs Afoma Mbanefo – Head of Biology
- Ms Kamini Lakshmikanthan – Head of Chemistry
- Dr Lola Llledo - Science Teacher/ Head of KS3 Science
- Dr Sam Hughes - Science Teacher
- Mr Laurence Handy - Science Teacher
- Mr Laurence Hartnett – Head of Physics KS5
- Mr Daniele Gasparro – Senior Science Technician
- Ms Rupal Kukadia – Science Technician
‘Good teaching and learning’ - that has been the Science department’s focus in the last 10 years. We have achieved this – reflected in our consistently high attainment in Double and Separate Award Science. We are continuing to attain our goal of ‘outstanding teaching and learning’.
We are the largest department in the School as Science is a CORE subject (with effectively 3 subjects combined – Biology, Chemistry and Physics). We have a Head of Department (overall responsibility) and now have heads of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. We have six experienced teachers (5 full time, 1 part time). We all have vast experience (and success) at delivering the GCSE Curriculum with three Biologists, two Chemists and one Physics specialist.
There are 7 large laboratories, which have Fume Cupboards and the standard equipment necessary for delivering Science to a GCSE Level, as a practical subject.
At Key Stage 3 we deliver Science with the support of the Activate scheme which is specifically designed to feed into the study of GCSEs with the AQA exam board. Students study 5 hours of Science over the fortnight and we aim to ensure that KS3 classes have a single teacher for science, where this is not possible students will have a maximum of two Science teachers.
Curriculum Intent
The study of KS3 and KS4 Science enables students to learn about the fundamental scientific concepts. Through this study we hope to give students the ability to explain the material world around them and a variety of natural phenomena. E.g. studying the states of matter allows students to understand why ice melts in drinks and also why the global ice caps may melt due to global warming.
Through studying the ‘working scientifically’ content students gain practical experience of learning science through investigation, using practical equipment and testing scientific ideas. This also develops their understanding that scientific theories can develop or change.
THE CURRICULUM
Key Stage 3
Students have access to the online Activate textbooks that correspond to their in class learning and we encourage the use of these for independent study.
These are particularly useful in preparing for the assessments that take place once per term. Students will be assessed on the content that they have most recently covered as well as 'throwback content' to assess their retention of knowledge.
Topics covered
Year 7:
- Biology - Cells, Structure & Function of Body Systems, Reproduction
- Chemistry - Particles and their behaviour, Elements, atoms and compounds, Reactions, Acids & Alkalis
- Physics - Forces, Sound, Light, Space
Year 8:
- Biology - Healthy & Lifestyle, Ecosystem Processes, Adaptation & Inheritance
- Chemistry - The Periodic Table, Separation Techniques, Metals and Acids, The Earth
- Physics - Electricity & magnetism, Energy, Motion & pressure
Year 9:
Due to the amount of hours allocated to Science in Y9, Y10 and Y11 we begin the study of the GCSE Science course in Y9 and at the end of Y9 students opt to continue with their study of Combined Science (old name - Double Science) or to take the Separate Science course (old name - Triple Science) which involves extra lessons of Science in Y10 and Y11.
Students are placed into sets for groups 1 and 2, the remaining 3 classes are mixed ability groups Y, Z and W.
The content we cover in Year 9 is as follows:
- Biology - Ecology, The digestive system, organising animals
- Chemistry - Atomic structure, States of matter, Chemical analysis, The Earth's Atmosphere, The Earth's resources
- Physics - Energy, Energy Resources, Molecules and matter
To find out more about homework requirements, please visit the Homework section of this website.
Key Stage 4 - GCSE
Combined Science Trilogy (old name - double science)
Lessons - 9 per fortnight
Teachers - 3 specialist teachers, one focussing on each science
GCSE Assessment - 6 exams at the end of Y11, 1 hour 15 minutes in length each, totalling 7.5 hours of assessment, no coursework.
GCSEs attained - 2 GCSEs titled 'Combined Science' covering aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Separate Sciences, Biology, Chemistry and Physics (old name - triple science)
Lessons - 9 per fortnight + 5 additional lessons totalling 14 lessons per fortnight.
Teachers - 3 specialist teachers, one focussing on each science
GCSE Assessment - 6 exams at the end of Y11, 1 hour 45 minutes in length each, totalling 10.5 hours of assessment, no coursework.
GCSEs attained - 3 GCSEs titled Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
In year assessment - 3 formal assessments per year, students will be assessed on the content that they have most recently covered as well as 'throwback content' to assess their retention of knowledge.
Students are placed into sets for groups 1, 2 and 3, the remaining 3 classes are mixed ability groups Y, Z and W.
Topics Covered
The content we cover in Year 10 is as follows:
- Biology - Cell structure and transport, communicable disease, biological responses, plants and photosynthesis.
- Chemistry - The periodic table, structure and bonding, chemical changes, electrolysis, energy changes, acids and alkalis.
- Physics - Eneregy transfers by heating, forces in balance, motion, forces and motion, wave properties, electromagnetic waves.
The content we cover in Year 11 is as follows:
- Biology - Respiration, cell division, variation and evolution.
- Chemistry - Chemical Calculations, rates of reaction and equilibrium
- Physics - Electric circuits, electricity in the home, radioactivity
In Y11 we also deliver a structured revision plan upon completion of the subject content.
To find out more about KS4 homework requirements, please visit the Homework section of this website.
Key Stage 5 / Sixth Form - A Level
A Level Biology
To study A level Biology is to embark on a journey of discovery!! Students learn about the basics of life, of organs and organ systems that can determine health, or sickness and disease. Best of all, students look deeper into the nucleus of cells and discover the amazing molecule called DNA. It controls almost everything that makes you, you.
Students will study the principles of electron microscopy, ultrastructure of cells, biological molecules, enzyme technology, transport and exchange mechanisms in plants and animals, classification, diversity and speciation.
In the second year, biotechnology and genetic engineering are key features, and the range and limits of homeostatic control systems, nervous and hormonal coordination. Many physiological and biochemical processes including respiration and photosynthesis are also explored.
Practical work is at the heart of biology and will be examined in the written exams. Field work is a compulsory element of the course, usually undertaken at Juniper Hall in Dorking.
AS: two written examinations each 1 hour and 30 minutes long. This is now a stand-alone qualification and will not contribute to A-level.
A-Level: three written examinations each 2 hours long, at end of two years.
There are 9 lessons over the two week timetable taught by 2 Biology specialist teachers.
A level Chemistry
Chemistry is about everything. It is the central science that explains how the world around us works. It enables us to see patterns in the myriads of chemical reactions that occur in nature. In this course students will see how the laws of chemistry and the skills of today’s chemists have been used to achieve our present high standards of living. AS Chemistry is an exciting course that places emphasis on the application of knowledge and the usefulness of laboratory research.
Progress will be checked via Independent Study packs and end of unit tests.
Students will study the basic laws and principles of chemistry and learn how to predict the properties and the atomic structure of elements from their positions in the periodic table. Topics will also include organic chemistry, carbon compounds including fossil fuels, plastics and recycling. Students learn how to control chemical reactions and the importance of chemistry in manufacturing processes. Students are introduced to modern analytical techniques such as mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance.
A-Level: three written examinations each 2 hours long, at end of two years.
There are 9 lessons over the two week timetable taught by 2 Chemistry specialist teachers.
Students’ practical skills will be developed throughout the course and assessed in the written examinations.
A level Physics
Physics is about how things work, from the nano-scale to the cosmic - super massive black holes and galaxies within the universe. Students will learn about forces in mechanics, waves, electrons and protons, gravitational, electrical and magnetic fields. Students will investigate nuclear energy and apply the fundamental principles learnt to solve real problems. Practical investigations will be conducted in the Physics laboratory in addition to learning theoretical Physics.
Progress is checked via homework and testing, each week.
Students are expected to bring together the principles and concepts from different areas of physics and apply them in a particular context which may be unfamiliar to them. High standards of work are essential. Students are expected to express their ideas clearly and logically using specialist vocabulary.
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AS: two written examinations plus one practical examination.
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A2: two written examinations plus practical based coursework
There are 9 lessons over the two week timetable taught by 2 Physics specialist teachers.
This course may provide opportunities for day trips and visit from external providers.
ENRICHMENT & EXTRA-CURRICULAr
Recently the department held a successful ‘Science Week’ that involved all year groups, with our Year 12 and 13 students helping with the implementation and planning. This included a series of lessons that explored Forensic Science.
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Science permeates through ALL aspects of our society, from the recycling bins that our department funded to the understanding of ‘reproduction’ – with social, moral and ethical issues. It would be impossible to list specific relevance as it is an ‘over-reaching’ subject
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We have a KS3 Year 7 Science Club. This term the students have been designing and making models of Formula One cars.
Careers
Biology: The possibilities range from medicine to agriculture, forensics to zoology. Almost any degree will accept A-level biology.
Chemistry: All manufacturing industries, pharmaceuticals, food processing, cosmetics and metal works. Chemistry is essential for medicine, dentistry, chemical engineering and a whole host of health and environmental courses.
Physics: Essential for any engineering course or degree and is highly sought after for other scientific or technical careers. Physics is an advantageous subject for courses ranging from medicine to careers involving business and finance.
Exam board
KS4
Combined Science (Trilogy)
Exam Board: AQA http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464
Course Code: 8464
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/science/specifications/AQA-8464-SP-2016.PDF
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464/assessment-resources
Separate Sciences
Biology
Exam Board: AQA http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/biology-8461
Course Code: 8461
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/biology/specifications/AQA-8461-SP-2016.PDF
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/biology-8461/assessment-resources
Chemistry
Exam Board: AQA http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/chemistry-8462
Course Code: 8462
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/chemistry/specifications/AQA-8462-SP-2016.PDF
Past papers: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/chemistry-8462
Physics
Exam Board: AQA http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/physics-8463
Course Code: 8463
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/physics/specifications/AQA-8463-SP-2016.PDF
Past papers: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/physics-8463/assessment-resources
KS5
Biology
Exam Board: AQA A level Biology https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402
Course Code: 7402
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/biology/specifications/AQA-7401-7402-SP-2015.PDF
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402/assessment-resources
Chemistry
Exam Board: AQA A level Chemistry http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405
Course Code: 7405
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/chemistry/specifications/AQA-7404-7405-SP-2015.PDF
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405/assessment-resources
Physics
Exam Board: AQA A level Physics http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/physics-7407-7408
Course Code: 7408
Specification: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/physics/specifications/AQA-7407-7408-SP-2015.PDF
Past papers:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/physics-7407-7408/assessment-resources
Textbooks and revision RESOURCES
KS3
Text books - ‘How Science Works’ schemes which are with resources from ‘Exploring Science’ - Pearson and Longman.
Resources – Kerboodle ‘online’ available to ALL students
KS4
Text books – Combined Science Trilogy
AQA Science – Oxford
Biology for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
ISBN: 9780198359265
AQA Science – Oxford
Chemistry for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
ISBN: 9780198359272
AQA Science – Oxford
Physics for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy 3rd Edition - J Breithaupt et al (Oxford Press)
ISBN: 9780198359289
Text books – Separate Sciences
AQA Science – Oxford - Biology Third Edition
ISBN: 9780198359371
AQA Science – Oxford - Chemistry Third Edition
ISBN: 9780198359
AQA Science – Oxford - Physics Third Edition
ISBN: 9780198359395
Psychics for GCSE (Oxford Press)
Resources
We issue ALL students with a ‘MyGCSE’ Login that is useful as an ‘online teacher’ with video-clips for most topics.
We encourage ALL students to purchase Revision Guides, linked to the AQA course, with accompanying Workbooks.
KS5
Text books - Biology
Main student textbook: AQA Biology (2nd edition) for Year 1 and Year 2 A- level Biology ISBN 978 019 835770 4 Glenn Toole and Susan Toole, Oxford University Press
Text books - Chemistry
Text books: Year 1 and Year 2 A-level Chemistry, Hodder
Reading List: Students will be given a list of books and articles
Resources: https://chemrevise.org/revision-guides/
https://www.youtube.com/user/MaChemGuy
https://www.youtube.com/user/MrERintoul
Text books - Physics
A level Physics for OCR Pub: Oxford University Press ISBN: 9780198 352181
We recommend that the students should have a copy, but it is available free of charge on our science website www.kerboodle.com
Advanced Physics for You Pub: Oxford University Press ISBN:9780748752966
This is available in school for students who would like a copy.
Revision Material
Online tutorials
https://www.alevelphysicsonline.com/
Free to use for Y12, but requires payment for Y13.
Resources
BBC Bitesize is a good source of information, however ‘the World’ is Science – you cannot miss it!
