The science department consists of 7 practical science labs and one science access ICT suite containing both workstations and laptops. Students from all ages undertake their science education in the science laboratories with specialist staff. The department. has a committed and experienced staff of lab technicians, responsible for the maintenance and preparation of the many scientific experiments and procedures

The key stage 3 Science curriculum at Fulston Manor encompasses Biology, Chemistry and Physics under the one heading of Science for Years 7-9. The course incorporates scientific thinking and the application of Science to the world around us. It aims to equip students with the scientific skills and understanding necessary for their time at school and beyond into their adult life. The course focuses on skills based learning and the application of SPIRIT skills to the subject. There is an emphasis on learning science through experimental work enabling pupils to be self managers and team workers, research/problem solving tasks encouraging pupils to be independent enquirers and innovative thinkers as well as an opportunity for pupils to share their ideas via presentation and in doing so reflect on their learning.

 

Key stage 3 is taught over two years, and covers all of the core topics required to prepare the learners for Key stage 4.

 

Year 7 is divided into topic areas and begins with Lab Safety and Particle Theory. This topic is invaluable since it informs pupils how to work safely and enjoy their time in the laboratory. The understanding of particle theory underpins all aspects of Science and is essential in setting the foundations on which to build with other topics.

 

Year 8 is divided into topic areas and develops some of the scientific ideas taught in Year 7. It also introduces new concepts and ideas as well as improving student’s general scientific skills and preparing them for GCSE Science.

 

Students begin their GCSE Core Science course. They cover all aspects of Science including Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics. They continue to develop their learning of Science through experimental work and theoretical ideas.

 

For Years 7 and 8 each topic area is assessed by an end of unit summative assessment and via an APP (Assessing Pupil Progress) Assessment will be by teacher marking of work and peer assessment, where pupils assess each other’s work using precise criteria which are given to them beforehand usually leading to a precise National Curriculum level. There is also an end of year examination, usually taken in May.

 

For Year 9, assessment is via end of unit summative tests and by the GCSE external examinations in June.

Progression Routes

 

The groundwork put in place and the skills obtained by learners in Key stage 3 will prepare them for the content taught in Key Stage 4.
 

The majority of students will be expected to attain two Science GCSE’s –  one in Year 10 and another in Year 11.

Some students will be expected to attain three Science GCSE’s in Biology, Chemistry and Physics – two in Year 10 and a third in Year 11.