GCSE SCIENCE – BLUE PATHWAY
(Core Subject)

Exam Board: AQA

In year 10 all students will follow the recommendations of the GCSE Core Syllabus in Science, these are 2 units from: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

The course is based on everyday science. There is less content and more emphasis on ‘How Science Works’, for example: How do human bodies respond to change and their environment, how the earth provides metals, energy and electricity.

GSCE Core Science is assessed through six end of unit exams, each representing 12.5% of the final award. These are 30 minute, multiple choice papers.
In addition to this, pupils are assessed in their science skills through a centre assessed unit, which represents 25% of the final grade. This unit includes an Investigative Skills Assessment and a Practical Skills Assessment. 

In year 11 you will be offered Additional Applied Science – This is a VOCATIONAL science and is based on every day science.  This can lead to:

  • AS Applied Science
  • OCR Nationals in Science
  • BTEC National Science

 

GCSE Additional Applied Science is assessed through a one hour, tiered paper (‘Science at Work’ – 40%). In addition to this there are two portfolio units – ‘Science in the Workplace’ (20%) and ‘Using Scientific Skills’ (40%). 

This makes up your double Science GCSE

For further information speak to Mr Hoskins or your Science teacher.

 

Examples of Jobs and Careers for Science: - Food Technologist, Laboratory Assistant, Nurse, Physiotherapist, Doctor, Radiographer, Pharmacist, Optometrist, Dentist, Veterinary Nurse/Surgeon, Zoologist, Physicist, Health& Safety Inspector, Environmental Health Officer.