SCIENCE AT KING´S COLLEGE, MURCIA

During the key stages, pupils are taught the knowledge, skills and understanding through a range of domestic and environmental contexts that are familiar and of interest to them. A huge part of science now is applying the knowledge and skills of traditional science and highlighting to pupils where this is used in our everyday lives: bringing Science to life! We also look at the part science has played in the development of many useful things and how scientific theories have developed over time. As a consequence of scientific and technological developments we make pupils aware of the ethical and moral implications of using and applying science.

 We encourage the use of a wide range of information sources and data and especially ICT based sources and the use of data-logging equipment. We encourage pupils to become effective participants and critical thinkers, using first-hand and secondary data to carry out a range of scientific investigations, including use of scientific language to communicate ideas and to name, describe and explain living things, materials, phenomena and processes.

 We highlight the need to recognise that there are hazards in living things, materials and physical processes, and encourage pupils to independently assess risks and take action to reduce risks to themselves and others when completing investigations.

KEY STAGE

Science students in Years 6-9 at Kings College enjoy 5 lessons of Science a week in our newly equipped science laboratories. We are using the Exploring Science KS3 textbooks. A combination of tasks and skill assessments are used alongside traditional tests to ensure pupils are progressing through their levels. All pupils are encouraged to be actively aware of their targets and know what is needed to progress their own learning.

KEY STAGE 4

We are following the Edexcel IGCSE for Double Award Science, where Biology Chemistry and Physics are covered with equal importance. The range of content covered is a very good basis for progress onto any science A-level courses. No coursework is required but practical skills account for 20% of the exam in each area. Pupils will sit three separate one hour exams and their average grade in the three will be awarded as two GCSEs.