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Science
Practical Experiments in Science
Firestarter!
Science is fun at Barnwell
Biology Practical
Genetics with Sweets!
The Science Department at Barnwell:
- is well resourced in a suite of six purpose built laboratories on each of the two sites
- in addition to dedicated preparation rooms; stock rooms and staff work areas
- has the latest ICT technology to maximise Teaching and Learning
- two dedicated ICT suites located within the Science Department
- has twelve well qualified staff who are enthusiastic about their teaching
- has excellent technical support from four qualified technicians
We aim to ensure that our students:
- understand the relevance of science in their everyday lives
- develop skills of investigation, observation, and problem-solving
- become confident citizens who will continue with their interest in science after leaving school
- enjoy their practical work which is an integral part of the learning experience
- become confident citizens in an ever increasing technological world
- have After School clubs to inspire students and extend the work they have done in lessons
What courses are followed?
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9)
Science at Key Stage 3 places an emphasis on the process of scientific enquiry as well as the accumulation of knowledge. The course is divided into topics or modules covering different aspects of science, and is based upon a variety of published schemes adapted to our own requirements. The students receive 3 hours of science per week and are taught in ability bands.
All students in Years 7 & 8 study a condensed Key Stage 3 course which covers aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Environmental Science. The course itself is practically based and prepares students for GCSE courses in years 9, 10 & 11.
| Year 7 | Year 8 |
| Being a scientist | Behaviour |
| Chemical reactions | Changing Earth |
| Earth, space and beyond | Changing environment & sustainability |
| Forces | Energy transfer & electricity |
| Life processes and particle model | Patterns in chemical behaviour |
| Variation & interdependence |
Key Stage 3 (Year 9)
Year 9 Science (GCSE Unit 1)
In Year 9 all students are expected to follow the OCR Gateway Core Science Unit 6. This unit includes aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics as follows:
Module B1: UNDERSTANDING OURSELVES
- Fitness
- Respiration
- Diet
- Diseases
- Drugs, smoking and alcohol
- Homeostasis
- Genetics
Module C1: CARBON CHEMISTRY
- Atoms, molecules and compounds
- Cooking and packaging foods
- Perfumes
- Polymers and their uses
- Fractional distillation of crude oil and cracking
- Fuels and measuring their energy contents
- Energy transfer in reactions
Module P1: ENERGY FOR THE HOME
- Heat transfer, melting and boiling
- Heat transfer in the home
- Waves and communications
- Microwaves
- Seismic waves and earthquakes
This course continues into Year 10 where students study Unit 2 and Unit 3 of the Core Science. Along with this the students also sit their SATs tests in May. Students will also be expected to do a lcoal Field Study which will enhance their scientific knowledge of their surroundings.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
At Key Stage 4 (GCSE) we offer a variety of options aimed to maximize student enjoyment and aspiration for all. The subject is taught over 4 periods a week and provides a good foundation for Post 16 Science courses. Students are taught in ability sets across three bands.
The course followed at Key Stage 4 (GCSE) is OCR’s Science B specification - Gateway Science. All students complete the Core Science element of the course in Year 10, and the then opt between Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Applied Science in year 11. Students also have to build a coursework portfolio throughout the course, which involves the use of ICT. The Core and Option Science is taught over 4 periods per week although Applied Science, due to its practical nature, is taught over 5 per week. Separate science options are also available to students in year 10 as part of their option chopices in Year 10.
Core Science
Core Science is made up of 6 modules and a coursework portfolio
- B1 - Understanding ourselves
- C1 - Carbon chemistry
- P1 - Energy for the home
- B2 - Understanding the Environment
- C2 - Rocks and metals
- P2 - living for the future
The coursework portfolio is made up of:
- Science in the news - report on current scientific affairs
- Can do tasks - practical skills
Seperate Sciences (Taken as an option in Year 10 and/or Year 11)
These courses provide a more thorough background in both theoretical and practical aspects of the three separate sciences. A variety of teaching styles will be used including discussion, practical work, written assignments, presentations and the use of ICT resources.
Each are made up of 6 modules and a coursework portfolio
| Biology | Chemistry | Physics |
| B1. Understanding Ourselves | C1. Carbon Chemistry | P1. Energy for the home |
| B2. Understanding the Environment | C2. Rocks and Metals | P2. Forces and Transport |
| B3. Living and Growing | C3.The Periodic Table | P3.Forces and Transport |
| B4. It's a Green World | C4. Chemical Economics | P4. Radiation for Life |
| B5. The Living Body | C5. How Much? | P5. Space for Reflection |
| B6. Beyond the Microscope | C6. Chemistry | P6. Electricty for gadgets |
The coursework portfolio is made up of a:
-
Research Task on an historic or innovative scientific discovery
-
Data Task on a laboratory investigation
Applied Science (An option available in Yr11)
Applied Science is made up of a portfolio of 3 units:
Unit 1 – Science in the workplace: a study of science in industry and the workplace
Unit 2 – Science at work: 3 module exam:
· Food science
· Forensic science
· Sport science
Unit 3 – Scientific investigation: a choice of investigation into one of the three Unit 2 modules
Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13)
At Key Stage 5 (Post 16) we offer AS and A2 awards in all three sciences. We usually have two sets in Biology; one in Physics and Chemistry at AS and A2 level. Each of these groups will be taught by two specialist subject teachers over 5 hours per week. We also offer BTEC National Certificate in Applied Science for students who wish to continue in the subject in a more applied setting. This course offers the opportunity for students to study modern scientific techniques and research and is assessed by portfolio. All Post 16 students have the opportunity to visit the Natural History and Science Museums in London. We also offer short field trips (AS Biology) where students can develop their knowledge and understanding in the theory and practice of Ecology.
Science and ICT
Timetabled lessons in the dedicated Science ICT suite(s) form an integral part of the Teaching and Learning experience for all students studying Science at Barnwell. We offer a variety of ICT experiences designed to enthuse students and enhance learning in Science for all students. Here are some of the exciting and engaging ways that we use ICT in Science:
- Use of Quizdom Interactive System where students have their oen remote controls to answer questions and win games
- Use of digital cameras in taking pictures and recording movies/presentations for the whole class to use
- Using LogITs (data capture devices) in investigations to process data, draw graphs and analyze results
- Students can use software such as PowerPoint or Publisher to produce presentations and documents of their own
- We use Windows Movie Maker to prudce movies and record commentary
- Interactive Whiteboards in every laboratory provide access to a wealth of interactive features and games that help bring Science to life
- Using electronic resources such as animations and movies to improve learning in the classroom
Our GCSE groups also make extensive use of ICT Suites to research and complete coursework during normal time.
Extra–curricular activities
A science club runs on a weekly basis for an extended period each term. Students can take part in trips and competitions. This is a more informal setting to inspire and promote creative thinking.
There are also after school revision workshops and coursework support for the GCSE students, who can take advantage of the extra help out of lesson time. The Department also runs Easter booster classes for Year 9 students before their SAT’s and GCSE students to support their Summer module exams.
Some other activities:
- visiting speakers
- local / national science completions
- field trips in the locality
- visits to museums and industry
- business and enterprise activities
The Science Department staff strive to make science as relevant as possible; to comment on current affairs and to enable our students to make informed decisions in their adult life. The application of science to everyday life is highlighted whenever possible.