Science

KS3

 Subject: Science

Head of faculty: Mr T Szmaglik

Staff: Mrs B Bridgford, Mr B Carbuccia, Mr M Commander, Mr T Franks, Miss J Hodges, Dr S Newbon, Miss K Oakley, Mr J Selwyn, Miss S Thomas, Miss R Travis, Mr B Wheatley

The above shows the United Learning Curriculum followed by Years 7, 8 and 9 up to and including April of Year 9. 

Our curriculum is based on the United Curriculum, as shown above; however we have lessons and some content is adapted to suit our context to ensure it is broad and balanced for our students. Our curriculum is knowledge-rich (we want our students to be exceptionally knowledgeable) and it covers the key elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics to enable students to flourish at GCSE and beyond. A good example of this is where we have added additional content on the phases of the moon and communicable diseases at KS3 to allow students to better understand the world around them. There has also been careful consideration to developing key scientific skills such as experimental planning, data analysis and evaluation which are applicable across all three domains. 

At KS3 all students have 6 lessons per fortnight and their lessons follow a Teach, Check, Practice format. This format provides the highest possible standard of explicit instruction, ensures students firmly grasp the new material and allows them time to consolidate new ideas through practice in order to develop them from novice to expert.

At Key Stage 3, students are assessed most terms through end of topic tests which are reviewed using a whole class feedback approach. All students are assessed formatively in lessons through ‘check’ tasks (such as miniwhiteboard activities, cold calling or turn and talks), regular verbal feedback during practice activities to provide timely, effective next steps and which recognises excellent progress