In the science department at Manor School we challenge our students to discover the fascinating macroscopic and microscopic wonders of the universe that they are a part of. We use exciting practical work, thought-provoking theory lessons and stimulating discussions to broaden our students horizons and get them ready for further study or the world of work.
Key Stage 3 Curriculum Information
Our Key Stage 3 curriculum bridges the gap between primary school and being ready for the challenges of GCSE content. The sciences are taught in distinct, themed units of work that follow on from previously taught content.
Year 7: ‘Living systems’, ‘Reproduction’, ‘The particulate nature of matter’, ‘Atoms, elements and compounds, ‘Forces’, ‘Motion’
Year 8: ‘Photosynthesis’, ‘Ecosystems’, ‘Acids and alkalis’, ‘Reactions’, ‘Electricity and magnetism’, ‘Energy’.
Year 9: ‘Genetics and evolution’, ‘Earth and atmosphere’, ‘Waves’, ‘Space’.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum Information
There are two Key Stage 4 routes that we follow in science: AQA Trilogy and AQA separate sciences. Both routes include the study of biology, chemistry and physics.
AQA Trilogy: students study the three disciplines of science and complete 6 exams at the end of the course. This is a double award course worth two GCSEs an contains various required practicals.
AQA separate sciences: students study biology, chemistry and physics with a specialist teacher of each, and complete 6 exams at the end of the course. There is a greater depth of content in each science over the Trilogy course and students receive three GCSEs. As per AQA Trilogy, there are required practicals as part of the course.
Key Stage 5 Curriculum Information
At Key Stage 5 the science department offers four courses to suit a variety of learner needs. All three of our A-level courses follow the OCR A specification.
A-level biology: In Year 12 students study three modules - Foundations in biology, Exchange and transport, and Biodiversity evolution and disease. In Year 13 there are two further modules - Communication homeostasis and energy, and Genetics evolution and ecosystems.
A-level chemistry: In Year 12 students study three units - Foundations in chemistry, The periodic table and energy, and Core organic chemistry. There are two further units in Year 13 - Physical chemistry and transition elements, and Organic chemistry and analysis.
A-level physics: In Year 12 students will study units on the Development of practical skills in physics, Foundations of physics, Forces and motion, and Electrons, waves and photons. This is followed in Year 13 with units in the Newtonian world and astrophysics, and Particles and medical physics.
BTEC Applied Science: This course provides an alternative for students wishing to study all of the sciences alongside other subjects. The course includes a mixture of examined units, practical based units and traditional coursework.
Enrichment
The science club for Key Stage 3 offers opportunities to carry out experiments that we don’t offer as part of out normal curriculum with a group of like-minded students. There may also be opportunities to take part on competitions. Key Stage 5 students are encouraged to lead or support in these sessions, providing chances to gain valuable leadership experience.