Key Stage 3 Science
Curriculum Content
The new Key Stage 3 curriculum has now been phased in. This consists of the frequent use of teacher assessments through the implementation of APP (assessing Pupil Progress) and the 5 assessment Foci. These include developing an array of multifunctional skills which can be transferred throughout the school. This new curriculum has been in progress from September 2008, so the year 7 and 8 students follow this scheme of work. In addition to these teacher assessments the students follow a series of workshops which range from Forensics and Crime Investigation to Formula One pits stops. Finally – To compliment the new curriculum we are currently planning for days throughout the school year for each year group to focus on a Big Idea. These days will include Guest Scientists from local Universities, activity days and trips to local businesses, museums and interactive exhibits. These activities are designed to reinforce learning and increase enthusiasm for Science.
At the beginning of each workshop the students have a lesson about "The bigger picture" and why they are learning the subjects involved. It is also a time to allow students to think about what opportunities open up to them if they continue to study these subjects, what careers they could follow and why they are important.
Year 7 Workshops
- Chemist's Workshop
- Formula 1 pit stop
- Animal kingdom and zoology
Year 7's Big Idea - The Environment
- Visit to the Deep
- Visit to Far-Ings Nature Reserve
Year 8 Workshops
- Doctors Surgery
- Stage School
- Forensic Lab
Year 8's Big Idea - Forensic Science
- Trip to Magna to make their own gene in a bottle
- Guests from Lincoln University Forensic Science Department
Year 9 – Last year of the QCA curriculum to be faded out after in Sept 2010
Year 9's Big Idea - Space and Exploration
- Trip to Leicester Space Museum
- Star-Dome Day
How do we do it?
Science is taught by a team of specialist teachers in seven well-equipped laboratories each with an interactive whiteboard. We also have our own ICT suite within the faculty and a class set of lap-tops, allowing pupils to carryout research and develop their ICT skills within their Science lessons. We have two trained technicians who assist the teaching staff in preparing and setting up equipment for experiments and other practical work. Class sets of textbooks are available as are numerous reference books, multimedia computers, and the latest data logging equipment.
Teaching Methods
Teaching methods are varied according to the topic being covered. A typical topic would contain a mix of whole class teaching, group practical work and individual study. Units of work are assessed frequently and homework forms an important part of the work. Each workshop for KS3 has a homework booklet that accompanies it. These booklets have been developed by the team to consolidate pupils learning, they are based on past SAT's questions and higher order thinking and problem solving challenges which cover a range of abilities.
As part of the National Curriculum examination process pupils will be expected to produce several extended scientific investigations. We use a teaching method known as "Thinking Science" which helps pupils to achieve higher standards. We also actively encourage pupils to become in charge of their own learning, assessing their own progress and deciding ways forward with their teachers. This thinking science enhances the "APP" learning style nicely.
Skills and Knowledge
The aim of the course is to provide an opportunity for pupils to work at Levels 3-8 of the National Curriculum. Your child will learn to work scientifically, to acquire knowledge and understanding of scientific facts, develop practical and investigative skills and appreciate how science is used in the workplace. The practical work also provides opportunities for pupils to show that they are capable of co-operating with others on experiments and that they can work safely.