Good morning - Thursday 23rd February

Science

Science 

As a core subject students study Science in every year at Staindrop.  In Years 7 and 8 students will study Science for a minimum of 3 hours per week.  In Years 9, 10 and 11 students complete 5 hours minimum per week, of Science.

AQA Course 

As part of the AQA Science specification, students will complete a course which covers the main areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

The KS4 course leads to 2 GCSE's.  Some students who exceed targets for the Double Award my be offered a further Science resulting in 3 GCSE's. 

Assessment at KS4 is by

6 modular multiple choice exams 

3 written exams

2 pieces of coursework - based on the students collecting accurate data and then sitting an exam regarding its significance.

In order to attain a 3rd GCSE at Science students must:

  • Complete 3 further written exams
  • Complete 1 further piece of coursework

AQA Applied Science

Some students may study Applied Science which rewards them with 2 GCSE qualifications.   This course consits of 4 modules:

  • Science in the workplace
  • Science for the needs of society
  • Developing scientific skills
  • Using scientific skills for the benefit of society.

Throughout the course students will complete practical assignments and research tasks which can provide up to 65% of the marks.  The remaining 35% comes from an exam.

BTEC First Diploma in Applied Science

The BTEC  First Diploma provides opportunities to acquire technical and employability skills, knowledge and understanding.  The course consists of 4 modules:

  • Science in the workplace
  • Science for the needs of society
  • Developing scientific skills
  • Using scientific skills for the benefit of society.
  • Students will complete 18 assignments with no final exam.

    Mr Marwood is our Head of Science.