Interactive vector addition and resolution

KS4
Pupils are firstly banded according to their predicted targets the bands correspond with the different courses offered (separate sciences, applied GCSE, BTec level 2, core GCSE) and secondly set within these bands according to their achievement. Pupil attendance is also considered when admitting pupils onto a course that requires a high degree of coursework. Pupils usually get either their first or second option choice.

There are higher and foundation papers available to all candidates.

• Regular, consistent Close the Gap Marking every month.
• Effective questioning during lessons
• Regular assessments, with clear close the gap marking, which take place at least every half term.

The science department operate an assessment for learning cycle that is repeated every half term to ensure pupils are aware of the level they are working at, have a good understanding of the skills required for each level and therefore know how to improve to reach their target. This cycle involves regular peer and self assessment; regular close the gap marking, regular modelling of good answers and regular discussions and verbal feedback.

Standardised and simplified level and grade descriptors are used and displayed in all classrooms and in all books.

Pupils at all key stages are assessed regularly, all assessments have been linked to the POS and SOW.

KS3
Extended writing and free response activities internally marked and moderated. At least 1 per half term. Also summative subject tests at end of each term.

KS4
Extended writing and free response activities internally marked and moderated. At least 1 per half term and Summative end of topic tests (approximately 3 per module).

External modular examinations in year 10.

KS5
Summative end of topic tests (approximately 3 per module). Also modular examinations in some subjects and written assignments.

During March 2008, the whole school will be working on projects with the loose theme of "Food".

If you have any ideas for an exciting project or presentation please get in touch with Mr Gilchrist in 141.

Over a number of lessons, the team prepared a scripted presentation , worked out a story board and video taped the "boffins" explaining how stars are born and die.

For more information, see the IOP / SciCast web site:  SciCast

ROOM 241 - Mondays 3:00 - 3:40pm

Our Science Club meets once a week, after school, for 30 - 40 minutes. 

Activiteis include:

• Chemistry/Biology/Physics experiments
• Making silly putty
• Making candles / lip balm
• Growing plants  & seedlings
• Making "science toys" 
• Science competitions 

If you like to make things go bang, produce some horrible smells and set fire to a £20 note -- then Science Club is for you.

Science club is open to all Key Stage 3 (and 4) pupils who demonstrate an interest in science, attend regularly, are considerate to other group members and like to have fun.

See Miss Jones (241) or Mr Gilchrist (141) for more information.

Biology AS and A-Level
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

The course builds on the knowledge and understanding of GCSE double award Science. It is expected that students will have achieved a GCSE grade C or above. During the course students will need to be able to communicate effectively and research information from a variety of sources. During parts of the course students will be expected to handle and interpret data. It would be helpful for students to have GCSE Grade C in Mathematics. Students are taught in groups no larger than 16.

What will I learn on this course?

This course will enable you to:

• develop greater understanding of biological facts together with an appreciation of their significance in new and changing situations
• develop greater expertise in the area of practical work and the link between theory and experimental work
• continue to enjoy and further develop a personal interest in the study of living organisms
• recognise the value and responsible use of biology in society
• develop further the awareness of developments in biology in the changing world.

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

This course will appeal to students who:

• have an interest in the study of living organisms
• enjoy carrying out investigations in the laboratory or as fieldwork
• are interested in the developments of "new" biology topics, such as genetic engineering, and the impact on society.What could I go on to do at the end of my course?
• Follow a degree course in biology, environmental science, medicine, nursing, dentistry, psychology and pharmacy. There are many more courses with direct links and many other degree courses will accept A-level Biology
• Enter a higher national course in biological science and related programmes
• Enter employment in areas such as pharmacy, biotechnology and land management

Physics AS and A-Level
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

Students are expected to have achieved at least a GCSE grade C in Science (double or triple award) and Mathematics. A grade C in GCSE Mathematics is important as numeracy and mathematical skills are key elements of the course. You will need to be able to communicate effectively and be able to research and think critically about problems. Students are taught in groups no larger than 15.What will I learn on this course?

This course aims for students to:

• develop the skills needed for the use of this knowledge and understanding in new and changing situations where appropriate
• develop an understanding of the link between theory and experiment
• appreciate how physics has developed and is used in present day society
• understand how mathematical expressions relate to physical principles
• bring together knowledge of ways in which different areas of physics relate to each other
• study how scientific models develop.

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

Physics A-level is suitable for students who:

• want to find out about how things in the physical world work
• enjoy applying their mind to solving problems
• enjoy carrying out investigations by the application of imaginative, logical thinking.

Physics AS level is also suitable for students who:

• want a grounding in a relevant worthwhile qualification of recognised value
• want to broaden their educational experience before deciding which A-levels to take
• are taking A-levels in the other sciences and/or Mathematics or other relevant courses such as Design and Technology and want to take another course that will support their studies.What could I go on to do at the end of my course?

Physics leads on to a wide range of courses and careers. You could go on to use Physics to support other qualifications or progress on to further studies or employment. This could be:

• courses ranging from physics, the sciences, medicine to engineering
• employment in areas such as radiography, biotechnology and electronic engineering.

Chemistry AS and A-Level
The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and process skills developed in GCSE. It is expected that students will have achieved at least a GCSE grade C in Science (double or triple award). Students are taught in groups no larger than 15.

What will I learn on this course?

The qualification aims to:

• stimulate and sustain your interest and enjoyment of chemistry and show you the value of chemistry to society
• enable you to gain a knowledge and understanding of chemistry that you can use to explain chemical phenomena and develop your practical and investigative skills
• provide you with opportunities to bring together knowledge and understanding of different areas of chemistry (including social, environmental, economic and technological) and to demonstrate how these areas are related.What kind of student is this course suitable for?

The course will appeal to anyone who:

• has an interest in and an enjoyment of Chemistry
• enjoys investigative work, and the application of logical and critical thinking
• wants or needs to use Chemistry to support other A-levels e.g. Biology or Physics
• needs to use Chemistry to progress onto further studies e.g. to study medicine, forensic science or veterinary science.

What could I go on to do at the end of my course?

• Follow a degree course in chemistry, environmental science, medicine, pharmacy, engineering, biological science, nursing and the physical sciences. There are many other degree courses that accept A-level Chemistry
• Enter employment in a science-related area such as pharmacy or a laboratory technician
• Follow a Higher National Diploma in chemistry and related programmes.