Science
Curriculum Maps can be found here
Co-Heads of Department: Mrs Worden & Mr Appiah-Gates
Our department Bible verse is: “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” (John 3: 12)
The Science department at Trinity School aspires that every child is able to understand and critically evaluate any scientific problem they may be faced with in an ever changing, modern world. Pupils cover all three disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics in equal weighting. We follow the Activate Programme of Study which is designed to scaffold their learning and provide the stable foundations for building upon at GCSE. Science requires pupils to demonstrate good mathematical, literacy and analytical skills and these are embedded throughout. Science practicals are used to consolidate the theory taught and prepare them for independent work at KS4. Topics taught in Year 7 include; cells, structure and organisation, reproduction, states of matter, elements and compounds, reactions, acids and alkalis, forces, sound, light and space. Topics taught in Year 8 include; Healthy lifestyles, ecosystems, inheritance, the periodic table, separating mixture, reactions of metals and acid, electricity, energy, motion and pressure.
The Science department seeks to provide an inspiring range of experiences both in and outside the classroom. This will give pupils the firm foundations required to succeed at KS4 and beyond whilst igniting a passion for the subject and a love of learning.
The assessment descriptors for this subject are available as follows:
Key Stage 4
All pupils at KS4 study for a combined science GCSE qualification, equivalent to two GCSEs. This incorporates the best features of the three separate sciences and is an excellent springboard for further study at A Level. Pupils who excel in this qualification will be selected to study separate sciences (i.e. a separate GCSE in physics, chemistry and biology). Selection is based on progress during Year 9 and Year 10. Teaching of the GCSE courses begin in Year 9 with each class taught by three teachers, one for each discipline.
AQA Combined Sciences Trilogy GCSE
This qualification has been developed to inspire and challenge students of all abilities and aspirations. Content taught provides the foundations for learning at A level for all disciplines. In the biology strand we study the physiology and anatomy of living things, the environment and the impact of human activity. Chemistry focuses on chemical structure and reactions and their applications in modern life. Physics covers the workings of the universe and its interactions. Data analysis, critical thinking and mathematical skills are also developed. To complement the theory there are 21 required practicals completed in lessons. Understanding and knowledge of these practicals will be assessed in the final examinations. There are six GCSE examinations in total, two for each discipline. Each exam is 1 hour 15 minutes.
The department also offers AQA Separate Sciences GCSE