Science (Combined)

All students MUST study Science, but there are two pathways to choose from. This page explains the Combined Science pathway. There is also a Triple Science pathway.

Student who chose this option will take the qualification Edexcel GCSE Combined Science which gives students a double garde worth two GCSEs.

Course Description

Science at KS4 is delivered through students completing a Combined Science GCSE course. This course will result in students receiving two GCSEs at the end of year 11.

Who would this course be suitable for?

To be successful in Science you will benefit by being inquisitive about the world we live in. You will need to pay attention to detail and be able to apply understanding of ideas to new and novel situations.

Potential career paths

Students who enjoy the topics covered in, and the challenge of studying, science often go on to study one or more of the separate sciences at A level. This can lead onto numerous degree level courses as well as a multitude of career options from research to medicine, engineering, teaching, forensics or environmental work.

https://icould.com/explore/categories/subject/science

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/tags/zjb8f4j/jobs-that-use-science/1

What's in the course?

Biology

In Biology you will start by learning about microscopes, cells and DNA. You will then go on to learn about natural selection, genes, plants and ecosystems. Then finally in year 11 you will cover the topics of animal co-ordination and how the body controls its own processes.

Chemistry

In Chemistry you will start by learning about atomic structure and the periodic table. You will then find out about rates of reaction, fuels and the Earth. Finally in year 11 you will go on to learn about chemical changes and how to extract metals.

Physics

In Physics you will start by learning about forces, energy and waves. You will then apply this knowledge to the topics of radiation, magnets and matter. Finally in year 11 you will learn about electricity and forces.

Assessments

Combined Science is assessed by exams at the end of Year 11.

  • Combined GCSE Biology - 2x 1 hour and 10 minute exams

  • Combined GCSE Chemistry - 2x 1 hour and 10 minute exams

  • Combined GCSE Physics - 2x 1 hour and 10 minute exams

What can you expect from GCSE Science? Hear from a Year 9 student.