GCSEs in Science help us to understand the world around us, and teach us to ask questions, solve problems and think critically. Studying Science opens up many future education and career opportunities.
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mr P Marshall
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
LEVEL:
GCSE (9-1)
WEBSITE:
Combined SCience
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Course outline
GCSE Science is linear with all exams sat at the end of Year 11 (May/June 2023).
The Combined Science GCSE course covers Biology, Physics and Chemistry over the course of Key Stage 4. The course is examined as one unit, but the awarded grade counts twice as the content is so extensive. Students will be awarded two GCSE grades at the end of the course.
The Triple Science GCSEs offer separate qualifications in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These will be awarded as individual grades for each subject.
GCSE Science provides insight into how science works, stimulating students’ curiosity and encouraging them to engage with science in their everyday lives and to make informed choices about future study and career choices.
The decision about whether students will follow the Combined or Triple pathway will be taken after discussion between students and their teachers.
Assessment method
| Unit | % of Final Grade | Type of Assessment | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology | 33.30% | Exam | Each subject will have 2 x 75 minutes exams |
| Chemistry | 33.30% | Exam | See above |
| Physics | 33.30% | Exam | See above |
| Unit | % of Final Grade | Type of Assessment | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Triple Science | 100% Biology/Chemistry/Physics each | Exam | Each subject will have 2 x 105 minutes exams. Each exam is worth 50% of the total qualification |
Questions will be a variety of multiple choice, structured, short closed answer and open response. Higher (grades 9 – 4) and Foundation (grades 5 – 1) tiers are available. There is no coursework element to the new Combined Science GCSE, instead there is a significant practical component which will be tested within the exams.
The future
Students who are successful at Combined Science GCSE can progress onto further qualifications, such as A-level Biology, Chemistry and Physics; BTEC Level 3 Applied Science qualifications, apprenticeships and employment. It opens up a rich world of career pathways in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.
