Science
Objectives in science:
Science is at the heart of modern life. An understanding of the three key disciplines of physics, chemistry and biology, underpinned by scientific enquiry, provides students with the ability to comprehend the world in which they live. At Ibstock we encourage students to think and to act like scientists. Thinking like a scientist means students ask questions, analyse, evaluate and reflect; thinking both critically and creatively. Acting like a scientist means students are team workers and self-managers who participate fully in their learning. We firmly believe in inspiring curious minds through the use of memorable contexts and practical exploration. Through this we aim to foster a lifelong interest in the sciences.
The science curriculum at Ibstock is based around nine ‘big ideas’ which provide the foundations needed for success at GCSE. The big ideas are:
- Organisms are organised on a cellular basis.
- Genetic information is passed down from one generation of organisms to another. And the diversity of organisms, living and extinct, is the result of evolution.
- Organisms require a supply of energy and materials for which they often depend on, or compete with, other organisms.
- All matter in the Universe is made of very small particles.
- Atoms come together to form bonds during chemical reactions
- The composition of the Earth and its atmosphere and the processes occurring within them shape the Earth’s surface and its climate.
- Changing the movement of an object requires a net force to be acting on it and Objects can affect other objects at a distance.
- The total amount of energy in the Universe is always the same but can be transferred from one energy store to another during an event.
- Energy is transferred by waves
Students study topics related to the big ideas in each and every year. This allows students to make progress and deepen their understanding as well as make connections, transferring their learning to new contexts.
In year 7 students study the following topics:
Modules covered:
- Cells
- Reproduction
- Ecosystems
- Changing states
- Acids and alkalis
- Rocks
- Forces in action
- Energy transfers
- Sound
In year 8 students study the following topics:
- Digestion
- Evolution
- Respiration and movement
- Elements, compounds and mixtures
- Chemical reactions
- Energy resources
- Speed
- Heating and cooling
- Light
In year 9 students study the following topics:
- Breathing
- Inheritance
- Plants
- The Periodic Table
- Reactivity
- Climate
- Pressure
- Electrical circuits
- Wave properties
Science lessons at Ibstock are engaging and diverse with a focus on ensuring that students are confident in their understanding. Each lesson is designed to both support and stretch individual students in order that they can achieve their best. The students are provided with regular homework tasks to reinforce their learning in lessons and this enables parents to play an active role in their child’s science learning.
