The sky's the limit at Yeovil College


You are here: Home » Full-time » GCSEs » Science and Additional Science

Print

Science and Additional Science

Title & Level: GCSE Science & GCSE Additional Science

Introduction
This course covers the broad scientific study of Biology, Physics and Chemistry. You will learn scientific facts and develop an understanding of how science works in the world at large. You will also be given the opportunity to look at the arguments for and against a number of technological developments. You will develop skills for carrying out practical work and in the analysis of experimental data. This course will give you the opportunity to achieve two GCSEs at the end of the year (GCSE Science and GCSE Additional Science).

Entry requirements
You should have already have grade D in GCSE Science/Additional Science before attempting this course.

Duration
This is a one year course. Enrolment is only in September.

Career Prospects/Progression
In most areas of employment and Further Education, you will be expected to have gained at least a grade C or above at GCSE Science and preferably in GCSE Additional Science as well. To continue studying or working in the field of science, a grade C or above in both GCSE Science and GCSE Additional Science is essential. Please see individual Science A Levels for specific entry qualifications. 

How will I be assessed?
GCSE Science: The six modules are examined by short matching/multiple-choice tests called objective tests.  The objective tests are taken in November and March. Altogether these exams make up 75% of the total marks. A centre-assessed unit accounts for remaining 25% of the marks.
 
GCSE Additional Science: For each of the three modules there is a 45 minute written paper taken in June.  These exams make up 75% of the total marks. A centre- assessed unit accounts for the remaining 25% of the marks.

The centre-assessed units comprise of an Investigative Skills Assignment which is normal class practical work followed by an externally set test.  There is also a Practical Skills Assessment which looks at your ability to carry out practical work.

The examination papers are available at two tiers:

Foundation  Grades G – C
Higher  Grades D - A*

*Your lecturers will ensure that you are entered at the correct level.

Course Content/units
For GCSE Science, 6 modules are studied as detailed below:

  • Biology 1a: Human Biology
  • Biology 1b: Evolution and Environment
  • Chemistry 1a: Products from Rocks
  • Chemistry 1b: Oils, Earth and Atmosphere
  • Physics 1a: Energy and Electricity
  • Physics 1b: Radiation and the Universe

For GCSE Additional Science, 3 modules are studied:

  • Biology 2: includes the study of cells, photosynthesis, food chains, how we keep our internal conditions constant, as well as examining how characteristics are inherited.
  • Chemistry 2: includes atom structure and how structure influences the properties and uses of substances, chemical reactions and their rates, and the uses of ions.
  • Physics 2: investigates movement, electricity, radioactivity and nuclear fission & fusion.

Course expenses
None, although there will be an opportunity for students to purchase revision guides at a discount price.

Qualification Awarding Body
AQA

What next?
For further information, advice and to enrol, please call our Customer Liaison Team on 01935 423921