Science
The Science Department, comprising of five modern and well equipped laboratories, is found in the annexe alongside the main driveway.
Staff:
Mrs. A. Royston Biologist and Head of Science
Mr. D. Thysse Chemist and Assistant Head of Science
Mrs. G. Jones Physicist in charge of Physics Department
Dr. F. Batt Biologist
Mrs. J. Cope Chemist
Mrs L. Trainor Physicist
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9) - our schemes of work follow the National Curriculum. Year 7 pupils are taught for two double lessons a week. In Years 8 and 9 there are three double lessons of science. In the programme of study for science, the content is set out in a sequence covering science enquiry, life processes and living things, materials and their properties and physical processes. Exploring science through practical work is a priority and students are given every opportunity to improve existing skills and discover new ones.
Middle School Science Club - this takes place every week during a lunch hour and is open to all pupils at Key Stage 3. The two Sixth Form captains help to run the club and also organise quizzes and competitions for years 7 and 8.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) - Students have the option of pursuing each science subject separately (therefore gaining a GCSE in Biology, Chemistry and Physics) or continuing with a co-ordinated course of science. Those following the co-ordinated course will take a GCSE in Science at the end of Year 10 and a GCSE in Additional Science at the end of Year 11.
During the Key Stage, candidates are taught to:
a) use a wide range of scientific, technical and mathematical language, symbols and conventions, including SI units, balanced chemical equations and standard form to communicate ideas and develop an argument;
b) consider ways in which science is applied in technological developments;
c) consider and evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of scientific and technological developments, including those related to the environment, personal health and quality of life, and those raising ethical issues;
d) recognise that there are hazards in living things, materials and physical processes, and assess risks and take action to reduce risks to themselves and others.
AS and A2 Science - the Advanced Subsidiary GCE specification (AS) builds from grade C in GCSE Additional Science.
Biology AS and A2
Both of these courses are made up of three units, two of which are externally assessed. The third AS and A2 units are internally assessed and include the assessment of pactical skills at each level. The aims of these courses encourage candidates to:
- develop their interest in an enthusasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology (e.g. medicine, dentistry, vetinary science, physiotherapy, genetics etc.)
- appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
- develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.
Chemistry AS and A2
The OCR Salters Chemistry course at AS and A2 level adopts the novel approach of being 'context-led' as opposed to the traditional 'topic-based' Chemistry courses. Chemical concepts are introduced within a relevant context e.g. The Atmosphere, The Oceans, and re-inforced throughout the course by a spiral 'drip-feed' approach. The applied nature of the course fits in well with the aspirations of the majority of A Level Chemistry students at the Marist to follow courses in medicine, dentistry, vetinary science and engineering.
Physics AS and A2 Ed Excel
Physics AS and A2 Ed Excel courses are modular. At AS, Unit 1 covers Mechanics and Properties of Materials and Unit 2 involves Waves, Electricity and the Nature of Light. At A2, Units 3 and 6 are internally assessed practicals. The units can be approached from a concept or context point of view. A Level Physics courses can lead to further study in science, engineering or medical areas and well as non-science areas.