KS3 Science
Science
Description
The science curriculum taught at Biddenham follows the whole school connected curriculum design and covers all of the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum. Our curriculum intends to provide the foundations for understanding key processes and concepts through the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In science lessons, pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Students are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. Lastly, our students are encouraged to think about how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
How will I be assessed?
Students will have summative assessments assessed termly, by completing a test paper which will assess them on their understanding of topics covered in each term. Formative assessments will be completed regularly, and this may include practice questions, individual or group projects, and through the marking of their books and homework tasks.
What books will be studied?
There are no set texts to be covered in science, but we strongly recommend the use of science encyclopaedias at home, to encourage scientific curiosity.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Our students will be involved in regular practical activities where they will be expected to assess risks and plan for the dangers of doing experimental work. There will be a small amount of practical work completed in other areas of the site, such as the school pond and on the school field. As part of our curriculum we cover the topic of reproduction, where the students learn about the female and male reproductive systems, the menstrual cycle, birth and puberty.
How does this subject prepare students for GCSE option choice in year 9?
By the end of Key Stage 3, pupils are expected to know, apply and understand the matters, skills and processes specified in the relevant programme of study. They will have studied general Science but also learned about some of the differences between the three separate disciplines: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This should enable our students to make an informed choice about whether they choose to take combined science, or separate science as their GCSE option.
What extra-curricular opportunities are available for this subject and what can I do at home to challenge myself?
At school we offer a weekly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) club, which gives our enthusiastic students the chance to experiment with different scientific equipment in a more relaxed and exciting way than done in the classroom. We also run a year 7 Science day in the summer term, and are also hoping to take our students to the National Space Centre in year 8. We would encourage parents to take their children to science museums and for students to try simple at home experiments.
Who should I contact for extra information?
Course contact: Mrs Squair suzanne.squair@biddenham.beds.sch.uk
