GCSE Science

You will study three units in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The topics will include: How Science Works -Biology: Keeping Healthy; Evolution and Environment -Chemistry: Fundamental ideas (atoms etc.); Limestone, Metals and Crude Oil; Earth's Atmosphere -Physics: Energy and Electricity; Radiation and the Universe The GCSE involves 3 hours per week class time, and you will need to do 2 - 3 hours of homework each week for coursework, assignments and preparation for examinations. The three 1-hour written examinations are taken in June and July (but may not be on your usual day at College). The exams are tiered with Foundation Tier being aimed at grades C - G and Higher Tier at grades A* - D. Questions for the Higher Tier will be more demanding, requiring higher level skills (evaluation, comparison) allowing candidates to access the higher grades. There is also a Controlled Assessment comprising individual research, a laboratory experiment, and two written tests (under 1 hour each). The Controlled Assessment counts for 25% (one quarter) of your final overall grade and it is marked by your tutor who will be able to set more than one Assessment and send the best mark to the examiners. Practical skills assessment and an externally set investigative skills assessment (45 minutes), which are marked by your teacher and count for 25% of the marks.There will be lectures, presentations and demonstrations, class discussions, practical work, small group work, and individual research and you will be expected to attend all sessions. The lecturer will help you to learn more efficiently and how to produce your work professionally.