Twenty First Century Science

Introduction to the Twenty First Century Science Suite

The Twenty First Century Science suite comprises six specifications which share common material, use a similar style of examination questions and have a common approach to skills assessment. The qualifications available as part of this suite are:

Yr 10 GCSE Science A (J630)

Emphasises scientific literacy - the knowledge and understanding which candidates need to engage, as informed citizens, with science-based issues. As with other courses in the suite, this qualification uses contemporary, relevant contexts of interest to candidates, which can be approached through a range of teaching and learning activities.

Yr 11 GCSE Additional Science A (J631)

A concept-led course developed to meet the needs of candidates seeking a deeper understanding of basic scientific ideas. The course focuses on scientific explanations and models, and gives candidates an insight into how scientists develop scientific understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.

Yr 11 GCSE Additional Applied Science A (J632)

Meets the needs of candidates who wish to develop their scientific understanding through authentic, work related contexts. The course focuses on procedural and technical knowledge that underpins the work of practitioners of science and gives candidates an insight into what is involved in being a practitioner of science.

GCSE Biology A (J633) GCSE Chemistry A (J634) GCSE Physics A (J635)

Separate GCSE Science is offered to those students who gain a level 7 in their KS3 SAT. This course runs over two years and leads to three separate GCSE qualifications. This course provides an opportunity for further developing an understanding of science explanations, how science works and the study of elements of applied science, with particular relevance to professional scientists.