Science in Years 7 – 9
The Key Stage 3 Science course is based on the AQA KS3 science syllabus. There are 10 units in each of Years 7 and 8, split into topics as shown below. Year 9 units are designed to take National Curriculum knowledge and develop it into more challenging concepts to stretch and challenge students’ skills in readiness for the next stage of their Science learning.
Each unit initially focuses on key knowledge from KS2 and develops this into KS3. The topic is then extended to look at applications and context. Practical work and investigations are key to developing practical skills as well as the scientific skills of prediction, planning, collecting of data, analysis, conclusion and evaluation and this is developed through each topic via an enquiry task. Each lesson provides an opportunity for the student to assess progress in knowledge, understanding and skills.
Each unit (or pair of units) at KS3 is assessed by an end of unit written test. A unit will typically take 4 weeks of class study time. Feedback is given through mixture of Assessment Grades and formative comments on students’ work.
Year 7
Biology:
Interdependence
Reproduction;
Cells and Movement
Chemistry:
Acids and Alkalis
Chemical reactions – metals and non-metals
Particle Model
Separating Mixtures
Physics:
Heating and Cooling
Sound and Light
Forces
Year 8
Biology:
Digestion
Breathing
Genetics
Chemistry:
Periodic Table and Elements
Types and Energy in Chemical Reactions
Earth Structure and Universe
Physics:
Contact Forces and Pressure
Energy and Work
Electrical Circuits
Electromagnetism
Year 9 Science
Biology:
Photosynthesis
Respiration
Non-communicable disease
Adaptations and Ecosystems
Chemistry:
Atomic Structure
Periodic Table
Environmental Chemistry and Resources
Physics:
Conservation of Energy
Energy Resources
Waves and Electromagnetic Waves
Space