Science

Teachers & Roles in Department

Linda Borrill - Laboratory Technician (Chemistry)
Linda Drury - Laboratory Technician (Biology)
Alan Stew- Laboratory Technician (Physics)

About Science

The Science department strives to ensure that all pupils achieve their best and that they have sufficient knowledge and understanding to become confident citizens in the increasingly scientific world. We encourage them to question the scientific method and nurture their interest such that they pursue further study. There is a significant level of uptake of science subjects in the sixth form and beyond.

Science is taught by biology, chemistry and physics specialists from Y8 upwards in one of our 10 laboratories. Y7 are taught in mixed ability groups, with setting from Y8 onwards. We have ever increasing opportunities to use ICT in lessons and aim to involve pupils in practical work whenever possible. Learning and Teaching approaches are varied in order to engage and challenge all students.

Curriculum

KS3

A new ‘in-house’ Scheme of Work has been devised for KS3 in response to national changes and is being delivered from September 2008.

The ‘Absolute Science’ package of resources supports our programme and ‘How Science Works’ skills are integrated throughout KS3.  "Exploring Science" resources have been incorporated since September 2010.  Y7 classes are taught 'Science' but from Y8 they have dedicated Biology, Chemistry and Physics lessons. 

Calendars of topics taught are available here as a guide: Y8_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc , Y9_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc ,

KS4

All students follow AQA GCSE "Core" Science (Specification A) in year 10, 25% of this award is for assessed work that is completed during lessons (ISA's).

In year 11, students follow the the AQA Additional Science course (25% school assessed) or AQA Additional Applied Science course (60% portfolio work). Both routes lead to the award of a second GCSE qualification.

As of September 2008, some teaching groups are following an alternative course during Y10 and Y11 that leads to GCSEs in the three separate science subjects (AQA GCSE Separate Sciences).

Calendars of topics taught are available here as a guide: Y10_triple_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc , Y10_NON_triple_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc , Y11_NON_triple_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc , Y11_triple_Teaching_Order_of_Science_Topics.doc

KS5

Science courses are very popular at KS5. All science courses have a coursework component. January and June examinations are taken in both Y12 and Y13. All KS5 science subjects require the equivalent of Additional GCSE Science at grade B. Chemistry and Physics also require Mathematics GCSE grade B. Further details of specifications can be found at aqa.org.uk.

New AS specifications were introduced with Y12 students in September 2008 and the new A2 courses commenced in September 2009 for Y13 students. AQA courses are followed in all three science subjects.

Homework

Homework is set and marked regularly for all year groups, in line with school policy. The nature of this work can be expected to vary widely, to include activities such as research, revision or creative tasks as well as formal written pieces.

Students should see their teacher at the earliest opportunity if the task is unclear or they cannot complete it. Extra help will be available if sought before the deadline. Where students fail to complete homework on time, the following sanctions will be applied :

1. Formal warning/10 minutes detention.
2. Letter home from subject teacher or message in Planner.
3. Whole school detention (1 hour).

Extra-Curricular Activities

• Y7 Science Club
• Y8 students take part in a Salter’s Chemistry competition each year.
• Y8 students are able to enjoy a day of Biology fieldwork in the Peak District.
• Y12 Biologists enjoy a three day residential fieldtrip to North Wales.
• Y12 Chemists are chosen to compete in a local and national competition hosted by Sheffield Hallam University.
• Informal ‘drop in’ sessions are available for any student requiring extra help.
• We have a thriving programme of activities for National Science Week that aims to provide something for everyone.
• Y7 students have the chance to take part in fieldwork as part of a combined trip with Geography.
• 'Break-out spaces' are available at lunchtimes for students wanting to use PCs for homework or research. 
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Club runs for all year groups after school every week. 
• Occasional competitions and events are organised or promoted where appropriate.