Dundonald High School

Science is a compulsory subject for all pupils in our school until the end of Year 12. We offer a challenging Single Award GCSE examined by AQA.

This demanding programme of study ensures that each pupil receives a concentrated science experience. The programme is delivered in three parts covering the following areas:

AQA Science A 2011

Biology

Keeping healthy, Nerves and hormones, the use and abuse of drugs, Interdependence and adaptation, Energy and biomass in food chains, Waste materials from plants and animals, Genetic variation and its control, Evolution

Chemistry

The fundamental ideas in chemistry, Limestone and building materials, Metals and their uses, Crude oil and fuels, Other useful substances from crude oil, Plant oils and their uses, Changes in the Earth and its atmosphere

Physics

The transfer of energy by heating processes and the factors that affect the rate at which that energy is transferred, Energy and efficiency, The usefulness of electrical appliances, Methods we use to generate electricity, The use of waves for communication and to provide evidence that the universe is expanding

GCSE Science A enables us to provide a Key Stage 4 science course for learners of any ability, whether they intend to study science further or not. The specification presents biology, chemistry and physics in separate teaching and learning units. This course provides a firm foundation for progression to AS and A-level Science.

These module exams are in the form of 1 hour tests. Students can choose between 2 papers:-
Higher     A*-D Grades
Foundation    C-G Grades

Modular examinations make up 75% of the final marks. The other 25% are awarded for the internally assessed practical unit. Due to the modular nature of this course, attendance is vital. Absences will lower the chances of a good grade.