Science

KS4

 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

At Key Stage 4 we follow AQA GCSE Science Specifications for both separate Sciences and a combined option (AQA Trilogy). Both curriculum routes are broad and balanced and cover the key elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics to enable students to flourish at GCSE and beyond. The scientific skills acquired during KS3 are built upon in the context of the required practicals covered in each Science, as well as the various other practical activities that both routes offer.

Combined Science (Trilogy) students have 9 lessons a fortnight split across the three sciences and delivered by subject specialists. Triple Science students are supplemented by an additional 5 hours of curriculum time (to cover additional Triple-only content) leading to a total of 14 hours, split across the three sciences and delivered by subject specialists. All lessons follow a Teach, Check, Practice format to provide the highest possible standard of explicit instruction, ensure students firmly grasp the new material and allow them time to consolidate new ideas through practice in order to develop them from novice to expert.

At Key Stage 4, 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.