Examining Board
We follow the AQA syllabus in Science. At KS4, students study GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics
All the GCSE courses have the same basic structure which is comprised of 100% terminal examination and required practicals that will be examined in the written papers.
All qualifications will be linear meaning that students will sit their examinations at the end of courses.
Written assessments
All written assessments will consist of multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response questions. All papers will assess knowledge and understanding from a distinct topic area.
Working Scientifically and Practical Assessment
All Science courses include investigating, observing, experimenting, testing out and thinking about ideas. They also include required practicals that must be carried out by all students with a record that they have done this. Questions in the written assessment will relate to these practicals. Here at Newstead we will include many more practical exercises that will enhance student learning.
How can you help your daughter with Science?
- Encourage her to use scientific vocabulary and display key words around the house.
- Test her regularly on topics covered.
- Check her homework.
- Get her to discuss what she has done in science lessons and get her to teach you some science every week.
- Watch relevant television programmes. Check the TV guide at the weekend and suggest programmes to watch during the week.
- Discuss scientific articles in the Newspaper. Ask your daughter to suggest reasons, or expand on points raised.
Useful Websites and Books
SharePoint contains a wealth of resources to support learning provided by the Science Department. Revision summaries for every topic are there which can be printed, annotated and used to aid learning.
Depending on your daughter's interests, magazines such as How it Works, New Scientist or National Geographic are all available which will help broaden your daughters understanding and appreciation of Science.
Past papers, mark schemes and examiners reports should be used as the exams approach as they are one of the best ways to practice exam questions. These are accessible from the AQA website link below:
Recommended Websites:
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/science/
www.kerboodle.com/