GCSE Science - Triple

GCSE Science – Triple AQA GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics

This course aims to:

Further develop understanding of scientific explanations, how science works and aspects of biology, chemistry and physics relevant to careers in Science.  The course provides a distinctive and relevant experience for learners who wish to progress to further study in any of the three separate subjects.

What kind of student is suitable for this course?

Students need to have a genuine interest in developing their scientific knowledge.  It represents a more demanding academic route and as such is suitable for higher attaining students (typically working at a level 5/6 by Easter in Year 9 – this would be the same as a solid B in the old GCSE grading system).  Students taking this route will need to recognise that the learning will be at a fast pace and will require enthusiasm and determination.

What career options are opened up by the course?

Further study in Science opens a wide range of career options.  There are many careers which directly use the scientific knowledge and understanding that this course will develop.  A selection of careers is shown in the table below:

 

Archaeologist	Army / RAF Officer	Astronomer
Biochemist	Biologist	Brewer
Chemist	Chiropodist	Clinical Scientist
Dentist	Dietician	Doctor
Aerospace Engineer	Civil Engineer	Environmental Health Officer
Forensic Scientist	Geologist	Health and Safety Adviser
Health Visitor	Lecturer	Medical Physicist
Meteorologist	Microbiologist	Marine Biologist
Midwife	Nurse	Oceanographer
Operational Researcher	Optician	Pharmacist
Physicist	Physiotherapist	Pilot
Quality Control Inspector	Radiographer	Teacher
Technical Author	Vet

Qualifications in Triple Science demonstrate a person who has an analytical mind. Therefore, it provides an indication that a person could perform well in areas such as finance, law and computer technology.

Course Structure

The students will gain three separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.  All of which could be achieved at a different grade.

Biology (8461)

1. Cell biology
2. Organisation
3. Infection and response
4. Bioenergetics
5. Homeostasis and response
6. Inheritance, variation and evolution
7. Ecology

Chemistry (8462)

1. Atomic structure and the periodic table
2. Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
3. Quantitative chemistry
4. Chemical changes
5. Energy changes
6. The rate and extent of chemical change
7. Organic chemistry
8. Chemical analysis
9. Chemistry of the atmosphere
10. Using resources

Physics (8463)

1. Forces
2. Energy
3. Waves
4. Electricity
5. Magnetism and electromagnetism
6. Particle model of matter
7. Atomic structure
8. Space physics Assessment

These qualifications are linear.  Linear means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course. 

Each subject is assessed by two written exams each worth 50% of the total mark. 

Please note there is no longer any controlled assessment (coursework) component to the GCSEs.  There are a number of required practical investigations which will be completed during the course and will be assessed in final examinations.

Key Contact

Mr Malik, Head of Science

Syllabus Website

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/new-science-gcse-specifications