Key Stage 3 provides a grounding in the fundamentals of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This is achieved through the study of key concepts such as cells and organ systems in biology, particles and chemical reactions in chemistry and electricity and forces in physics. Students also begin to develop their experience of working scientifically through a variety of experimental work. This includes devising and testing hypothesis, analysing data and drawing conclusions.
Science
The Science curriculum at Salesian aims to inspire the scientists of the future and develop scientific literacy so that all children can understand and navigate an increasingly technological world. The Science curriculum will contribute towards the development of the whole person by giving students the skills and knowledge so that they can live happy and healthy lives – using the lens of scientific theory and application to help them do this.
Furthermore, the Science Department hopes to:
- Stimulate curiosity and enjoyment of science and its methods of enquiry.
- Instil a systematic body of scientific knowledge and develop an understanding of scientific theory and experimentation including its power and its limitations.
- Develop abilities and skills which are relevant to the study, practice and application of science and explore new ideas.
- Develop experimental and investigative abilities, particularly observational skills, recording and analytical skills.
- Challenge the intellectual ability of all and by this ensure that all students perform to their full potential and achieve highly.
- Inspire vocation through encouraging students to pursue further studies in one or more of the sciences and in related subject areas.
Key Stages 3, 4 & 5 Curriculum
Science at KS4 builds on the foundations learnt at KS3 and begins to develop the complexity of students’ knowledge and understanding, including the use of specialist vocabulary to explain scientific ideas with accuracy. Students develop their analysis and problem-solving skills, learning to apply what they have learnt to unfamiliar contexts. They also begin to refine their practical skill, using information about experimental methods to critically evaluate data, using ideas such as accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility.
The aim for students who chose to continue their studies beyond GCSE is to develop subject experts, whose understanding of biology, chemistry and physics is significantly higher than that of the wider population. As such they should be able to use highly specialist vocabulary to describe complex processes and ideas and develop a deep understanding of the scientific method. Students follow a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for higher education and complete a practical endorsement as part of their A-level qualification.
