Edexcel Science GCSEs and BTEC starting in 2011
We have changed examination boards for the new GCSE Science specifications for first teaching in September 2011.
We will be offering three different Science courses:
Science with Additional Science
Edexcel GCSE in Science (2SC01) with Edexcel GCSE in Additional Science (2SA01)
Triple Science
Edexcel GCSE in Chemistry (2CH01)
Edexcel GCSE in Physics (2PH01)
Edexcel GCSE in Biology (2BI01)
Science with BTEC Applied Science
Edexcel GCSE in Science (2SC01) with Edexcel BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Applied Science (QCF)
Course content:
Units in GCSE Science and GCSE Triple Sciences:
B1: Influences on Life *Unit code: 5BI1F/5BI1H
This unit is split into three compulsory topics:
- Classification, variation and inheritance
- Responses to a changing environment
- Problems of, and solutions to a changing environment
C1: Chemistry in Our World *Unit code: 5CH1F/5CH1H
This unit is split into five compulsory topics:
- The Earth’s sea and atmosphere
- Materials from the Earth
- Acids
- Obtaining and using metals
- Fuels
P1: Universal Physics
This unit is split into six compulsory topics:
- Visible light and the Solar System
- The electromagnetic spectrum
- Waves and the Universe
- Waves and the Earth
- Generation and transmission of electricity
- Energy and the future.
Units in GCSE Additional Science and GCSE Triple Sciences:
Unit B2: The components of life *Unit code: 5BI2F/5BI2H
This unit is split into three compulsory topics:
- The building blocks of cells
- Organisms and energy
- Common systems
Unit C2: Discovering chemistry *Unit code: 5CH2F/5CH2H
This unit is split into six compulsory topics:
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Ionic compounds and analysis
- Covalent compounds and separation techniques
- Groups in the periodic table
- Chemical reactions
- Quantitative chemistry
Unit P2: Physics for your future *Unit code: 5PH2F/5PH2H
25% of the total GCSE
- Static and current electricity
- Controlling and using electric current
- Motion and forces
- Momentum, energy, work and power
- Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion
- Advantages and disadvantages of using radioactive materials
Units GCSE Triple Sciences only
Unit C3: Chemistry in action *Unit code: 5CH3F/5CH3H
This unit is split into five compulsory topics:
- Qualitative analysis
- Quantitative analysis
- Electrolytic processes
- Gases, equilibria and ammonia
- Organic chemistry
Unit P3: Applications of physics *Unit code: 5PH3F/5PH3H
This unit is split into five compulsory topics:
- Radiation in treatment and medicine
- X-rays and ECGs
- Production, uses and risks of ionising radiation from radioactive sources
- Motion of particles
- Kinetic theory and gases
Unit B3: Using biology *Unit code: 5BI3F/5BI3H
This unit is split into three compulsory topics:
- Control systems
- Behaviour
- Biotechnology
Units for BTEC Applied Science
Mandatory Units:
- 1.Chemistry and Our Earth
- 2.Energy and Our Universe
- 3.Biology and Our Environment
In addition, 3 optional units will completed.
Exam and coursework requirements:
Each unit exam is worth 25% of a GCSE and is a one hour, 60 mark exam paper at Higher or Foundation tier
GCSE Triple Sciences:
March Year 10: B1, C1 and P1 exams
November Year 11: B2, C2 and P2 exams
June Year 11: B3, C3, P3 exams
GCSE Science with Additional Science
June Year 10: B1, C1 and P1 exams
June Year 11: B B2, C2 and P2 exams
GCSE Science with BTEC Applied Science
June Year 11: B1, C1 and P1 exams
GCSE Coursework
During Year 10 and Year 11, coursework based on Science investigations (extended experimental work) will be completed. One piece is submitted to the exam board for each GCSE and is worth 25% GCSE.
BTEC Coursework
The BTEC course is 100% coursework and is continuously assessed throughout Year 10 and Year 11.
Grouping arrangements
There will be two classes taking Triple Sciences, one group taking Science + Additional Science and one group taking Science + BTEC Applied Science.
The groups are not set as such and students can choose which course to take, however the Year 9 Science teachers will recommend which course individual students should follow.
Average Year 9 achievement Recommended course
Level 3, 4 or 5 GCSE Science with BTEC Applied Science
Level 4, 5 or 6c GCSE Science with GCSE Additional Science
Level 5a, 6, 7 or 8 Triple Science
Either Triple Science or Science with Additional Science is required for the the eBacc and for progression to A levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology or PE.
Homework requirements
More details will be provided when the new materials are available in September 2011
Books
More details will be provided when the new materials are available in September 2011
Internet resources
Edexcel Science GCSEs
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/GCSE-science-2011/Pages/default.aspx
Sample exam papers for Edexcel Science GCSEs
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/GCSE-science-2011/Pages/The-exams.aspx
BTEC in Applied Science