SUBJECT OVERVIEW
Science attempts to explain the world in which we live. It provides technologies that have had a great impact on our society and the environment. Scientists try to explain phenomena and solve problems using evidence.
A scientifically literate person should, amongst other things, be equipped to question and engage in debate on the evidence used in decision-making.
Here at The Academy of St Nicholas we aim to ensure all students are aware of their impact on society. We encourage students to appreciate their environment, not only looking at how science helps us to explain how things work, but also the moral and ethical issues that often arise.
SCHEMES OF WORK
KEY STAGE 3
At key stage 3 we deliver the “Activate” scheme which breaks down the content into structured modules based around key areas of biology, chemistry and physics. There is also a strong emphasis on practical work and investigation, which equips the students with skills that will enhance their attainment at key stage 4.
The main focus at key stage 3 is to engage students with thought provoking, enjoyable lessons and this is why so many of our students look forward to science lessons and choose it as an option for GCSE.
Autumn term
Spring term
Summer term
Year 7
Cells
Particles and their behaviour
Forces
Structure and function of the body
Element, atoms and compounds
Sound
Reproduction
Reactions
Light
Space
Year 8
Health and lifestyle
The Periodic Table
Electricity and magnetism
Ecosystem processes Separation techniques Energy
Adaptation and inheritance
Metals and acids
Motion and pressure
Year 9
Cells and organisation
Atoms, bonding and moles
Energy and resources
Cells and organisation
Atoms, bonding and moles
Energy and resources
Disease and bioenergetics
Chemical reactions
Particles at work
| Autumn term | Spring term | Summer term | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7 | Cells Particles and their behaviour Forces | Structure and function of the body Element, atoms and compounds Sound | Reproduction Reactions Light Space |
| Year 8 | Health and lifestyle The Periodic Table Electricity and magnetism | Ecosystem processes Separation techniques Energy | Adaptation and inheritance Metals and acids Motion and pressure |
| Year 9 | Cells and organisation Atoms, bonding and moles Energy and resources | Cells and organisation Atoms, bonding and moles Energy and resources | Disease and bioenergetics Chemical reactions Particles at work |
KEY STAGE 4
AQA Separate Sciences can be taken as part of the option process in year 9. We offer AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These subjects prepare student for further study of science.
AQA Combined Science – a basic overview of all three science subjects. This is a combined qualification which will provide 2 grades at GCSE.
Autumn term
Spring term
Summer term
Year 10
Disease and bioenergetics
Chemical reactions
Particles at work
Biological responses
Rates and organic chemistry
Waves
Biological responses
Rates and organic chemistry
Waves
Year 11
Ecology
Earth’s resources
Space
Ecology
Earth’s resources
Space
Revision
| Autumn term | Spring term | Summer term | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 10 | Disease and bioenergetics Chemical reactions Particles at work | Biological responses Rates and organic chemistry Waves | Biological responses Rates and organic chemistry Waves |
| Year 11 | Ecology Earth’s resources Space | Ecology Earth’s resources Space | Revision |
KEY STAGE 5
- AQA Biology AS/A2
- AQA Chemistry AS/A2
- AQA Physics AS/A2
These subjects are a spring board to study medicine, dentistry, engineering or pure science at University.
You can find more information about the curriculum the school is following by contacting Mr Lloyd by email or calling 0151 230 2570.