Combined Science
GCSE
What will I study?
Your GCSE Combined Science lessons carry on from the work you have already done in Key Stage 3. You will, at the end of two years, achieve two GCSEs in Science.
The GCSE course is split into topics that cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The topics you will be studying in GCSE Combined Science are listed below:
- Biology: Cell Biology, Organisation, Infection and Response, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, variation and evolution, Ecology
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, The Periodic Table, Bonding, structure and properties of matter, Quantitative Chemistry, Chemical changes; Energy changes, Rates of reactions, Organic Chemistry, Chemical analysis, Chemistry of the atmosphere, Using resources
- Physics: Energy, Electricity, Particles, Waves, Forces, Magnetism and electromagnetism
How will I be assessed?
There will be six exams in the summer of year 11: two exams for Biology, two for Chemistry and two for Physics. Each exam lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes, and carries a total of 70 marks. Each paper contributes equally to the final overall grade. Grades range from 1-1 to 9-9 (with 9-9 being the highest). GCSE Combined Science is a tiered subject—higher tier grades are 4-3 to 9-9 and foundation tier grades are 1-1 to 5-5.
There are compulsory required practicals completed during the course. You will be examined on your understanding of this investigative work as the exam papers will have questions based on this content.
Teaching and learning approaches
You will be taught using direct instruction, including modelling and practical work. You will be expected to take part in class discussion, and complete guided practice and independent practice to help you learn and apply your understanding to new situations. You will be assessed regularly on your work and will be expected to revise for these tests. You will be taught how to revise effectively as part of the course.
Enrichment opportunities
There are opportunities to go on trips to various universities and workshops, for example at the Centre for Life in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Homework (Self-Study)
You will be given a knowledge organiser (summary sheet) for each topic to help you learn key facts as part of your self-study. Other tasks will also be set, including exam questions. If you miss a deadline for self-study you will be given a 20 minute after school detention.
The Future
The Combined Science course leads to qualifications worth two GCSE grades and the options open to you will depend on the results achieved and your own interests. Your teacher will be able to help you select the appropriate course.
If you achieve a grade 6-6 or above in Combined Science you may wish to study A-levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Studying A-level Maths alongside A-level Sciences is recommended, especially for Physics. Alternatively, you
may wish to consider studying Science in a more vocational context such as a vocational Level 3 BTEC in Animal management, Sports Science or Health and Social Care. There are many openings in science-based courses such as BTEC qualifications for animal nursing, dental technology or electronics at college.
There are many jobs and careers that build on from a GCSE science qualification, such as all areas of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, environmental studies, teaching, engineering and computing.
Further information
Speak to your Science teachers, or Mrs Crouch.
