Subject Title: Science

Lead Teacher: Mr J M Harker

Examining Body: OCR

Level: GCSE J631 Additional Science
                       J630 Core Science
                       J632 Applied Science

Why should I study this subject?
Everyone studies GCSE Science in Year 10. It features many of the major theories of science in a way that encourages students to appreciate their importance to everyday life. The course also explores how scientific information is obtained, how reliable it is, what its limitations are and how this information helps society to make important decisions. Students are prepared to deal with issues involving science which they may meet, for example, mobile phone safety, decisions about childhood vaccinations and sustainable use of resources.
In Year 11 there are two options available: GCSE Additional Science – this course explores scientific concepts in more depth and develops students’ understanding of how scientists work. GCSE Additional Applied Science – a vocational, work related science course.

What use will a qualification in this subject be to me when I leave school?
GCSE Additional Science – appropriate for students who may wish to progress to A levels in science subjects.
GCSE Additional Applied Science – appropriate for students who wish to progress to more vocational, work-related courses post 16. Students may also progress to some A levels in Science subjects and A level Applied Science.

How will this subject be taught and what will be expected from me?
Year 10
In GCSE Science students complete NINE modules: You and your genes, Keeping healthy, Life on earth, Air quality, Material choices, Food matters, The Earth in the universe, Radiation and life and Radioactive materials.
Year 11
GCSE Additional Science – students complete NINE modules that build on the GCSE Science course in Year 10: Homeostasis, Growth and development, Brain and mind, Chemical patterns, Chemicals of the natural environment, Chemical synthesis, Explaining motion, Electric circuits and the Wave model of radiation.
OR GCSE Additional Applied – students are taught THREE modules from a choice of six: Life care, Agriculture and food, Scientific detection, Harnessing chemicals, Communications and Materials and performance.

How will the work be marked and assessed?
Year 10
GCSE Science – Examination 66.6% (three written papers each of 40 minutes length and one ‘Ideas in Context’ paper of 45minutes in length). Coursework 33.3% consisting of a case study (20%) and a data analysis task (13.3%).
Year 11
GCSE Additional Science – Examination 66.6% (four written papers each of 40 minutes length). Coursework 33.3% consisting of an open-ended practical investigation.
OR GCSE Additional Applied – Examination 50% (three written papers each of 45 minutes length). Coursework 50% consisting of a work-related portfolio.
Internal end of module tests will be used to assess students’ performance and progress towards their target GCSE grade in all Science courses over the two years.