Our GCSE courses cover the National Curriculum for Key Stage 4 Science and include topics from Biology, Chemistry and Physics for all pupils.
Pupils either study Combined Science (worth two GCSEs) or can choose Triple Science (in order to gain full GCSEs in each subject) as an option subject. Entry Level Certificates are also offered to pupils for whom this is more appropriate.
AQA GCSE (9-1) Combined Science (Trilogy)
This course provides pupils with the opportunity to learn about key topics across the sciences, including cells, the human body, ecology, plant biology, genetics, the Periodic Table, bonding, chemical reactions, energy changes, the atmosphere, organic chemistry, energy, electricity, the atomic model, forces, waves and magnetism. Pupils receive two GCSE grades upon passing this course.
We strive to make all lessons relevant and interesting in order to spark scientific curiosity. This includes regular practical lab work, beyond that required in the specification, multimedia, modelling and debating activities. We are passionate about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and continue to look for new ways to enthuse pupils in this area within lessons and beyond.
AQA GCSE (9-1) Biology, Chemistry and Physics (also known as “Triple Science”)
We offer Triple Science (full GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics) as an option subject. We have been delighted with the success of pupils taking this course which allows them to study the topics in greater detail as a more thorough preparation for further studies at A Level or in other college courses such as BTEC Level 3s and T Levels.
AQA Entry Level Certificates in Science
Occasionally, pupils may not be suited to taking their GCSE examinations in Year 11. We continue to support those pupils with the AQA Entry Level Certificate which provides an externally recognised qualification at a Key Stage 3 level but linked to GCSE content.
We strive to ensure that every pupil is supported throughout their time at NSG. We offer regular revision sessions and teachers are always happy to support pupils needing extra help at other times too! Homework is a combination of Educake’s online revision homework, additional research for lessons and regular revision resource making.
For all options the modules are taught as follows:
| Term | Year 10 | Year 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | Fundamental ideas in Science Moving and changing Structure and bonding Quantitative chemistry Particle model of matter | Genetics Variation and Evolution Chemical Analysis Forces |
| Spring | Chemical changes Energy changes Atomic structure Electricity | Ecology Sustainable Rates of Reactions Development Electromagnetism Space (Triple only) |
| Summer | Paper 1 Revision and Mock GCSE examinations Coordination and control Hydrocarbons Waves | Revision and GCSE examinations |
