Combined Science

Departmental Aims

• To instil and develop a love of Science for students of all abilities
• To provide a safe environment for students to learn essential practical skills
• To provide a suitable foundation for further scientific learning in Year 9 and beyond
• To teach students how to become independent learners.

Facilities

• The Science Centre provides the perfect environment for our students to flourish
• Eight of the 17 laboratories are specially designed for the teaching of Combined Science
• Three full-time technicians are available.

Years 7-8 Curriculum

Combined Science is a two-year course which aims to inspire students to develop their scientific skills, knowledge and understanding. At the end of every unit (roughly every four weeks) there is a test and students are given time to consolidate their understanding before each test. This is a hands-on, practical based course that provides a suitable foundation for further scientific learning in Year 9 and beyond. Investigative science skills are taught within the context of each topic.

In Year 7 the topics covered are:

• Laboratory safety
• Scientific investigation skills
• Cells
• Particle model and solutions
• Forces
• Reproduction
• Acids and alkalis
• Electricity
• Research topic

In Year 8 the topics covered are:

• Food and digestion
• Heating and cooling
• Atoms, elements and compounds
• Respiration and circulation
• Light
• Sound and hearing
• Earth Science
• Investigative science project

Co-curricular, Enrichment, Extension and Support

• Weekly Science Club – a chance for students to explore experimental activities beyond the scope of the curriculum. Members are invited to take part in the Year 6-8 Science Fair in the summer term.