Science | Willows High School

Mrs Warren

Head of Science

”Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science. - Edwin Powell Hubble

Why is Science Important?

Science is important because it teaches an understanding of natural phenomena. Science aims to stimulate our natural curiosity in finding out why things happen in the way we do. It teaches methods of enquiry and investigation to stimulate creative thought

What Will I Learn At Key Stage 3?

Studying Science encourages students to be curious about the world around them and discuss issues that may affect their own lives, society, and the future of the world. The skills and techniques taught throughout KS3 allow students opportunities to find explanations to everyday problems. The KS3 course is a skills-based curriculum. This means students will learn many different topics such as digestion, atoms and elements and forces, but will also be learning the skills needed by a scientist for investigation. These will include how a scientist predicts, presents data, and reaches conclusions. These skills will form the abilities students require to approach their GCSE studies and utilise information out in the world.

What Topics Are Covered At Key Stage 3?

Digestion
Health
Forces
Electricity
Atoms, elements and compounds

How Will I Be Assessed At Key Stage 3?

The students’ scientific skills are assessed throughout KS3 via scientific enquiries which will be used to identify their level at the end of the key stage.

What Will I Learn At Key Stage 4?

WJEC Double Award Science Candidates entered for the WJEC Double Award Science qualification will complete six external assessments and one practical assessment. Three external awards will be completed at the end of year 10 with an additional three being completed at the end of year 11 Applied Science WJEC Applied Science is a more practical approach to teaching and learning science. Although the topics are generally the same with a few exceptions, many topics are taught in a context-based approach. Candidates entered for the WJEC Double Award Applied Science qualification will complete five assessments.

What Topics Are Covered At Key Stage 4?

At key stage 4 pupils will study Biology, chemistry and physics with a wide range of topics such as animals and plants, the atmosphere, space, fuels and animals.

How Will I Be Assessed At Key Stage 4?

WJEC Double Award Science Three external awards will be completed at the end of year 10 with an additional three being completed at the end of year 11. The practical assessment can be completed in year 10 or 11. The result of these will be two GCSE qualifications in Science (Double award). Applied Science Candidates entered for the WJEC Double Award Applied Science qualification will complete five assessments. The assessments consist of two external exams combining all three sciences, one exam based on pre-released material, a task-based assessment, and a practical assessment. The results of these will be two GCSE qualifications in Science (Applied Science).