Key Stage 3
The Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) Science course builds on and extends work done in Junior Science, gradually increasing the conceptual demand of familiar areas as well as introducing completely new topics. Experimental skills are developed through a wide variety of practical activities, while investigative tasks increase pupils’ experience of the planning, analysis and evaluation approaches required for assessed coursework.
The course follows the Exploring Science Scheme, which is based on the QCA Scheme of work for the National Curriculum. Thinking skills in Science are nurtured throughout the Exploring Science Scheme. The department has good ICT facilities, including a class set of laptop computers for datalogging activities, simulations, research and presentation work.
The girls are taught in mixed ability groups for Year 7, giving them the opportunity to work to the highest standard, regardless of their previous attainment in Science. All groups have separate lessons in Biology, Chemistry and Physics throughout the secondary years.
Biology Topics
Cells; reproduction; environment and feeding relationships; variation and classification.
Chemistry Topics
Acids and alkalis; simple chemical reactions; particle model of solids, liquids and gases; solutions.
Physics Topics
Energy resources; electrical circuits; forces and their effects; the solar system and beyond.
Girls are grouped into sets for Year 8 according to their attainment in Year 7 tests, class work, coursework and examinations. Sets are reviewed regularly to ensure that each girl gains the most benefit from the learning experiences offered to her. Activities designed to promote thinking skills in science will be continued in appropriate contexts throughout the year.
Biology Topics
Food and digestion; respiration; microbes and disease; ecological relationships
Chemistry Topics
Atoms and elements; compounds and mixtures; rocks and weathering; the rock cycle
Physics Topics
Heating and cooling; magnets and electromagnets; light; sound and hearing
In Year 9 many earlier topics are re-visited to consolidate and extend pupils’ understanding. Other themes complete the Key Stage 3 Scheme of Work, and more, to give pupils a good grounding for GCSE. Revision is built into the scheme of work and pupils get opportunities to become familiar with the style and content of Key Stage 3 test questions.
Pupils with a consistent record of high achievement and commitment have the opportunity to start the GCSE course early, with a view to taking the three GCSEs in the separate Sciences. Other pupils will go on to take two Science GCSEs, Science and Additional Science, which include the essential components of all three subjects.
Biology Topics
Inheritance and selection; fit and healthy; plants and photosynthesis; plants and food
Chemistry Topics
Metals and metal compounds; patterns of reactivity; environmental chemistry; using chemistry
Physics Topics
Energy and electricity; gravity and space; speeding up; pressure and moments