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Science
In St John the Baptist’s College, the Science Department strives to inspire, motivate and challenge pupils through a broad, coherent and practical programme of study at Key Stage 3. Our science lessons are designed to stimulate and excite pupils’ curiosity about phenomena and events in world around them.
It is the objective of the science department to enable pupils to become well informed, confident citizens in an increasingly technological world. Pupils experience a variety of activities during their course of study and are given every opportunity to apply scientific knowledge and ideas to help them solve problems. It is our aim that pupils begin to make personal decisions and judgements based on their scientific knowledge on issues concerning personal health and well being, safety and the care of the environment, as well as equipping them with the important skills necessary in the world of work.
Science Department Staff members:
- Mrs S. Carolan (HOD)
- Mrs C. O'Neill
- Miss M. Hughes
- Miss E. Molloy
- Miss A. O'Neill
- Mr D. McLaughlin
- Mr C. McNeill
- Mr CJ McGourty
- Mr D. Campbell (Science Technician)
KS3 Overview
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, Science is delivered over 3 periods per week.. Pupils in Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10 follow a General Science Programme incorporating topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Throughout Key Stage 3, pupils are provided with opportunities to develop their Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities. Additionally, pupils are encouraged to set personal targets for progress and to review these targets on a regular basis.
CURRICULUM
Year 8
- Introduction to Science
- Earth & Space
- Electricity & Magnetism
- Cells, Organs & Systems
- Habitats
- Kinetic Theory
Year 9
- Energy
- Sound & Light
- Separation Techniques
- Periodic Table
- Photosynthesis & Respiration
Year 10
- Healthy Body & Heart
- Reproduction & Genetics
- Acid & Alkalis
- Chemical Reactions
- Forces & Motion
KS4 Overview
In St John the Baptist’s College we offer 3 options of Science that you can choose to study at GCSE level…
- OCN Science
- Single- Award Science
- Double- Award Science
OCN Science
This option is an applied subject which means that your final grade will be awarded from your coursework mark rather than through sitting an exam paper. This will be offered to pupils studying a vocational path.
Single-Award Science (CCEA)
This option includes four elements; chemistry, biology, physics and practical skills. It is an exam based subject so if you choose to study this subject you will sit 3 exam papers, complete a practical assessment and sit a final exam paper based on practical skills.
Exam Paper weightings
Unit 1: Biology 25%
Unit 2: Chemistry 25%
Unit 3: Physics 25%
Unit 4: Practical Skills
Booklet A-Practical Skills Assessment 7.5%
Booklet B-Written Examination 17.5%
Double-Award Science (CCEA)
This option will reward you with 2 GCSE grades. You must choose this option if you wish to study Science at A Level.
This option has 7 units which will be completed over the 2 year GCSE period. This includes 2x biology exam papers, 2x chemistry exam papers and 2x physics exam papers and also a practical assessment for each science subject (students will carry out 18 prescribed practical activities during the 2 years)
Exam Paper weightings:
Year 11:
Unit B1: Biology 11%
Unit C1: Chemistry 11%
Unit P1: Physics 11%
Year 12:
Unit B2: Biology 14%
Unit C2: Chemistry 14%
Unit P2: Physics 14%
Unit 7: Practical Skills
Booklet A- Practical Skills Assessment 7.5%
Booklet B- Written Examination 17.5%
Extra - Curricular Provision
EXTRA- CURRICULAR PROVISION
The Science Department contributes extensively to the school’s extra-curricular provision. Extra-curricular activities at Key Stage 3 include:
- STEM Club
- Eco Schools Club
Educational Visits and Shows:
- W5 Belfast
- Armagh Planetarium
- Belfast/Dublin Zoo
- Competitions such as BT Young Scientist
- Young Environmentalist award
- GCSE after school revision sessions
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