GCSE SCIENCES (SEPARATE) – BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS - RED PATHWAY


(Core Subject & Option A – if you choose not to study separate sciences then you will be entered for the double science course)

Exam Board: AQA

At Key Stage 4, pupils following separate Science courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics will cover the recommendations of the GCSE Core Syllabus in Science, where there is an emphasis on everyday science and ‘How Science Works’.

Each of the Science awards is split into 3 sections. The first section is assessed through 2 end of unit tests. These are 30 minute, multiple choice papers, and represent 25% of the award. For sections 2 and 3, assessment is by 45 minute written papers with short answer questions. Each of these also represents 25% of the award.

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.
e.g. for a GCSE in Biology, the pattern of assessment would be:


Unit    

            Time

Percentage of the final grade

Total number of marks

Biology 1a    
Objective Test  

30 minutes

12.5%

36

Biology 1b  
Objective Test    

30 minutes

12.5%

36

Biology 2
Written Paper

45 minutes

25%

45

Biology 3
Written Paper

45 minutes

25%

45

Biology Centre-Assessed Unit

 

25%

40

The same pattern would exist for separate GCSE’s in Chemistry and Physics. Thus, at the end of Year 11 pupils will have three separate Science GCSE grades.
Each of these three GCSE’s would provide an excellent basis for studying the corresponding GCE A-level Science (e.g. The chances of getting an A or B at A level chemistry are increased by 76 per cent for pupils who take three separate science GCSE’s compared to those who take ‘double’ science).  Separate Sciences provide an opportunity for those who may be thinking of pursuing a Science based degree at University, such as medicine, pharmacology etc.

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.