Science
Subject Overview
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The Science Department has four laboratories, an ICT suite as well as a number of associated ‘prep’ rooms, all contained in a purpose built block.
The department is continuously developing ideas and resources to make its lessons both informative and stimulating.
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Key Stage 3
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Year 8 - Topics studied
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Introduction to Science
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Cells
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Energy
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Acids & Alkalis
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Variation
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Classification & Environment
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Plant & Animal reproduction
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Forces & their effects
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Solutions & Particles
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Simple Chemical Reactions
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Solar System
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Year 9 - Topics studied
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Electrical Circuits
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Food & Digestion
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Atoms
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Elements
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Compounds & mixtures
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Heating & Cooling
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Respiration & Circulation
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Magnets & Electromagnets
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Microbes & Disease
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Light & Sound
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Ecological Relationships
Head of Department
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Mrs R Murphy
Year 10 - Topics studied
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Plants & Photosynthesis
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Metal Compounds & Patterns of Reactivity
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Speed
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Energy & Electricity
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Inheritance & Selection
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Pressure & Moments
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Using Chemistry
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Environmental Chemistry
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Health
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Key Stage 3 Extra Curricular Activities /Trips/Industry links
In Year 10 all pupils are given to opportunity to attend the ‘Chemical Reactions’ workshop in W5, Odyssey, Belfast.
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Key Stage 4
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3 courses are delivered in years 11 and 12
CCEA – Single Award Science: Comprised of 4 units, each worth 25%.
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
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Practical Skills
CCEA – Double Award Science:
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Year 11 modules (11% each)
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B1 – Cells and Living Processes
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C1 – Structures, Trends and chemical reactions. Quantative chemistry and analysis
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P1 – Motion, Force Moments, energy, Density, Kinetic Theory, Radioactivity
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Year 12 modules (14% each)
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B2 – Body system, Genetics, Microorganisms and Health
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C2 – Further chemical reactions, Rayes & Equilibrium, Calculations and organic chemistry.
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P2 – Waves, light Electricity, Magnetisma and space physics
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Unit 7 – Practical Skills unit – 25% - 3 practical and 3 written papers
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OCN – Level 2 Certificate in Applied Science (Equivalent to a B grade at GCSE)
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This course is an entirely portfolio based qualification. The qualification is delivered over 2 years and has 3 core units:
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Physical Processes
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Life Processes & Living Things
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Materials and their chemical properties
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Employability/job opportunities/further study
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Laboratory Technician
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Science Teacher
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Nurse
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Health Care Assistant
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Midwife
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Key Stage 4 Extra Curricular Activities/Trips/Industry links
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Year 11 and Year 12 pupils always attend workshops during Northern Ireland Science week. Historically these events have included: Women in Science hosted by Belfast Met and Criminology and Scientific analysis in the SRC
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