Science

View subject: Biology | Chemistry | Physics

Key Stage3

Stage 3 a new course based on the Longmans Exploring Science How Science Works series is being phased in.

Each topic is built around real-world themes and issues in order to highlight the relevance of science to our everyday lives. The scheme has a uses a wide of multimedia resources and activities which allows lessons to be tailored to meet the range of learning styles and abilities of each class of pupils. The scheme incorporates PeLTS (Personal Learning Thinking Skills) throughout the course.     

Year 7 are taught in mixed ability form groups. Years 8 and 9 are taught in sets based on their ability.

Topics are taught on a rota basis with tests usually at the end of each rotation of 3-4 topics. The results of these tests form the basis of achievement levels given in reports to parents and they are used for setting purposes from Year 8 onwards.

Key Stage 4

Students may follow several different pathways within Science during Years 10 and 11 leading to either 2 or 3 science GCSEs.

As part of the core curriculum students study for 2 GCSEs in Science. Students who enjoy Science can opt for Separate Sciences during the Year 9 Options Process. Uptake for the separate sciences has been strong since its introduction to Christleton in September 2008. Currently there are 2 groups in Year 11 and 3 groups in Year 10. Please note that students who study Core and Additional Science GCSEs may still progress to A level Biology, Chemistry or Physics in the Sixth Form, provided they meet the entry requirements.

Students are set according to ability for their GCSE courses.

Examinations

The Science GCSEs are all modular in nature. Modules for all GCSE Sciences are taken throughout Years 10 and 11. Although re-sits are possible we encourage students to prepare adequately for their examinations first time round to avoid extra workload. Modules for the Year 10 GCSE Science take place in November, March and June. GCSE Additional Applied Science examinations are in January of Year 11; those for GCSE Additional Science are in June of Year 11; and  separate science examinations take place in June of Year 10 and both January and June in Year 11.

All courses contain a centre assessed component.

For information about A Level Biology, Chemistry & Physics, please use the links at the top of this page.