Science

In Key Stage 3 students follow the Cambridge Lower Secondary Science curriculum.

In the Cambridge Lower Secondary Science curriculum there are three strands all of which support learners in understanding and investigating natural phenomena and providing a foundation for developing future scientific skills, knowledge, and attitudes:

Thinking and Working Scientifically encompasses three essential scientific approaches that are integral to their understanding of science:

• Models and Representations – Scientists utilize models and representations to depict objects, systems, and processes, particularly those that are abstract or invisible. These tools help in explaining and conceptualising scientific ideas, enabling predictions and observations’ interpretation.
• Scientific Enquiry – Learners need to cultivate scientific enquiry skills, encompassing the planning of experiments, evidence gathering, analysis, drawing conclusions, and evaluations.
• Practical Work – Practical skills such as observation, measurement, and equipment handling are essential for obtaining accurate and reliable data during investigations.

Content:

• Biology: Focuses on the study of living organisms, life processes, cell structure, and ecosystems.
• Chemistry: Concentrates on the properties of matter, including atoms, elements, compounds, and substance interactions.
• Physics: Explores the interaction between matter and energy, encompassing energy, forces, light, sound, and electromagnetism.
• Earth and Space: Investigates the Earth’s structure, atmosphere, climate, and extends to understanding the Solar System and beyond.

Science in Context bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. It helps students connect scientific concepts to practical situations, scientists’ work, relevant phenomena, and global-scale issues. It encourages learners to explore the broader impact and role of science at regional, national, international, and global levels, fostering a holistic understanding of the subject.

In Key Stage 4 students follow Cambridge IGCSE Sciences. Students either opt to take the three separate sciences IGCSE Biology (0610), Chemistry (0620) and Physics (0625) or Co-ordinated Sciences (0654).

The science curriculum is designed to enable students to:

• acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of scientific theories and practice;
• develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely;
• use scientific data and evidence to solve problems and discuss the limitations of scientific methods;
• communicate effectively and clearly, using scientific terminology, notation and conventions;
• understand that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment;
• enjoy science and develop an informed interest in scientific matters which support further study.

Content:

• Biology: Characteristics of living organisms, cells, movement in and out of cells, biological molecules, enzymes, animal and plant nutrition, animal and plant transport, disease and immunity, gas exchange, respiration, coordination and response, drugs, reproduction, inheritance, variation and selection, organisms and their environment, and human influences on their ecosystems.
• Chemistry: States of matter, atoms, elements and compounds, stoichiometry, electrochemistry, chemical energetics, chemical reactions, acids and bases, the periodic table, metals, chemistry of the environment, organic chemistry, and chemical analysis.
• Physics: Motion, forces and energy, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, nuclear physics, and space physics.