KS3 Science

Introduction

Studying science inspires curiosity and an attitude of discovery. Science is a subject, yes, but it's also a way of thinking; we want to train our Key Stage 3 students to think critically and creatively, working together to solve problems and be guided by the evidence. Science allows our students to be ambitious, stretching themselves to ask the questions “what would happen if…?”, “why does …?” Science is also daring, it allows our students to debate the ethics of whether we should do something just because we can.

In Years 7 and 8 students study a range of career-themed units, 6 hours per fortnight. In Year 9, our Science curriculum begins to divide more explicitly into Biology, Chemistry and Physics to allow our students’ knowledge to deepen and to become more scientifically refined and specialised.

In Year 7 science, students study:

• Formula 1 – An introduction to forces and motion
• Physiotherapy – Cells, tissues and organs
• Forensics – Lab safety, apparatus and separation techniques
• Environmentalist – Photosynthesis, plant reproduction and food security
• Astronomer – Astronomy and the universe
• Theme Park – Energy stores and transfers
• Entertainment industry – Sound and light
• Material science – Acids and alkalis, metals and non metals
• Electrician – Electrical circuits
• Midwifery – Human reproduction

In Year 8 science, students study

• Investigation skills
• Periodic table
• Energy
• Chemical reactions
• Food webs and ecosystems
• Life processes
• Electricity
• Variation and inheritance

In Year 9 Science, students study:

• Biology: Cells and microscopy, Respiration and metabolism, Human organs
• Chemistry: Atoms and the periodic table, Chemical analysis and Bonding and properties of matter
• Physics: Energy, Waves and Atomic structure

How is the course assessed?

Year 7 and 8 students complete 1 science assessment per half term which assesses them on their ability to recall knowledge, analyse and display data and apply their knowledge to unfamilar situations. 

Year 9 students complete separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics assessments, a total of 9 assessments per academic year.  

Homework and beyond the classroom

KS3 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Club is an exciting way for students to explore and engage with the world of science through a series of activities, for example “How would you survive a “zombie apocalypse?”.

KS3 Space Club is a club for pupils to dive into the wonders of the cosmos and learn the secrets of the night’s sky through fun-filled exploration that’s both educational and out-of-this-world exciting.