Key Stage 4

External Examination Courses

SATs

All students take part in the Science National Curriculum Tests at the end of year 9. They will undergo a period of intensive revision just before the exams.

GCSE - OCR’s Twenty First Century Science

In Years 9, 10 and 11 preparation for GCSE is undertaken following OCR’s Twenty First Century Science. Homework sheets are provided which allow the students to consolidate their understanding, all of which are linked to specific lessons.

Year 9  (2007 – 2008)

Science + Biology or Chemistry or Physics

OR

Biology and Chemistry and Physics

Year 10  (2007 – 2008)

Science (Year 10) + Additional Science (Year 11)

OR

Science (Year 10 and 11)

Science: scientific literacy for all

This is a Science course suitable for all Key Stage 4 students (age 13 to 16), taking 10% of their curriculum time and leading to one GCSE grade. All students need this whether or not they continue with science unless they do BTEC or do all the separate Sciences.

Additional Science (Year 10 and 11only)

Alongside Science, young people will be able to opt for one of two Additional Science courses, also taking 10% of curriculum time and leading to one GCSE grade. Because the courses are independent, the GCSE grades may differ.

Separate Sciences

Students of proven commitment can choose to study for three GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

BTEC – Edexcell First Certificate in Applied Science

Features

• QCA accredited NQF Level 2 work-related qualification
• Mapped to QCA’s guidelines on work-related learning at Key Stage 4
• BTEC First Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSEs grades A*-C

Advantages

• Provides opportunities for students who may wish to be employed in the applied science industry or organisations that use science
• Provides technical and employability skills, knowledge and understanding which are transferable and will enable individuals to meet changing circumstances, whether these arise from a shift in their own status or in employment
• Motivates students via applied learning and continuous assessment – no external examinations
• BTEC qualifications are recognised by employers and education institutions
• Provides a good progression route to more advanced qualifications e.g. BTEC Nationals and possibly IB standard level in Science but not directly to GCE Advanced Level or IB higher levels.
• On completion of a BTEC National, students can progress to a BTEC Higher National or BTEC Foundation Degree programme.

Course content:

Unit 3: Chemistry Applications

The unit develops the student’s technical skills and knowledge of techniques through carrying out chemistry practical investigations. The knowledge and skills developed are essential for science technicians/assistant practitioners (or employees carrying out other related roles) working in a number of chemistry related industries and laboratory services.

Unit 4: Physical Science Applications

This unit will enable students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of physical science and apply these principles to a range of practical situations.

Unit 5: Biological Systems

This unit enable students to develop their biology practical skills, underpinning knowledge and understanding of biology, to include applications in the workplace and the effects on the environment and society.

• OCR Examination Board

• 21st century science

• Edexcel

Biology – AQA Biology B

Chemistry – OCR Salters Advanced Chemistry

Physics – AQA Physics A

This may well change in 2008.