| Curriculum Leader of Learning: | Mrs H Hodgeman |
| hodgemanh@christofidelis.org.uk | |
| Course Studied: | AQA GCSE Science |
Why study Science?
Science is the study of how our bodies work, where we fit into the Universe and how we can use the Earth’s resources to improve the quality of life for everyone on Earth. It is about asking questions and then conducting experiments to find out the answers. It is a demanding but interesting subject, which is highly valued by universities and employers.
Course Outline
Route 1: GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics (“Triple Science”).
Students study the three Sciences and gain a full GCSE in each. Students are encouraged to take this option if they have an interest in the Sciences and/or are considering careers using the Sciences.
Route 2: GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
This route provides students with two GCSEs in Science (the traditional “Double Award”). Students study all three Sciences and their grades are combined to produce two overall grades for these GCSEs.
Biology: Cell Biology, Organisation, Infection and Response, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and Response, Inheritance, Variation and Evolution, Ecology.
Chemistry: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table, Chemical Bonds, Quantitative Chemistry, Energy Changes, Rates of Reaction, Organic Chemistry, The Atmosphere and Sustainability.
Physics: Energy, Electricity, Particles and Matter, Nuclear Physics, Forces, Waves, Electromagnetism and Space (Space is only studied as part of Triple Science).
How is the course assessed?
There are four or six examinations at the end of year 11 depending on the course studied.
Triple Science: Six papers, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes
Combined Science Trilogy (higher tier): Six papers , each lasting 1 hour 15 minutes
Combined Science Synergy (foundation tier): Four papers, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes
What do the Science subject ambassadors think?
“I chose Triple Science as I really enjoy the subject and find it very interesting, so I decided I wanted to do more of it. I think that Science will be very useful in my future even if I don’t go on to be a scientist. I love that we get to do lots of different practicals which go from burning crisps to creating circuits. Practicals help me understand what we’re learning about and they’re really fun.”
Where can this course lead?
By studying Science pupils develop a wide range of transferable skills as they learn to analyse and evaluate information, which is useful in careers such as finance, IT, business and engineering.
Career inspiration
From careers you know to opportunities you might never have imagined, discover where studying this subject could lead. Select the career to go to more information:
| Career (Biology) | What could you do? |
| Doctor | Diagnose illnesses and provide medical treatment. |
| Veterinary Surgeon | Treat injuries and illnesses in animals. |
| Marine Biologist | Study marine life and help protect ocean ecosystems. |
| Genetic Counsellor | Help families understand inherited medical conditions. |
| Biomedical Scientist | Analyse samples to help diagnose and monitor diseases. |
| Biotechnology Researcher | Use living organisms and biological processes to develop new technologies and treatments. |
| Career (Chemistry) | What could you do? |
| Pharmacist | Provide medicines and advise patients on their safe use. |
| Chemical Engineer | Develop processes for manufacturing useful products and materials. |
| Forensic Scientist | Analyse scientific evidence to support criminal investigations. |
| Cosmetic Scientist | Develop and test products such as skincare, makeup and fragrances. |
| Materials Scientist | Create and improve materials used in electronics, medicine and engineering. |
| Battery Scientist | Research better ways to store energy for electric vehicles and renewable technologies. |
| Career (Physics) | What could you do? |
| Aerospace Engineer | Design and develop aircraft, satellites and spacecraft. |
| Electrical Engineer | Develop electrical systems and technologies. |
| Physicist | Investigate how the universe works and apply scientific discoveries. |
| Medical Physicist | Use physics to improve medical scanning and cancer treatments. |
| Renewable Energy Engineer | Develop technologies that generate cleaner energy. |
| Acoustics Consultant | Use the science of sound to improve buildings, workplaces and public spaces. |
