St Edmund's Catholic School

Science Curriculum Maps

Intent

To nurture learners who:

Ignite a passion for science, encouraging curiosity, enthusiasm, and creative exploration of the natural world.
Understand the transformative role of science in society, appreciating its contributions to innovation, sustainability, and progress.
Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, rooted in scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning.
Engage reflectively with science, setting personal learning goals and evaluating their growth as future scientific thinkers.
Pursue STEM with passion, embracing opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to drive impactful careers.

Implementation

An inquiry-driven curriculum that equips students with essential skills to conduct and analyse scientific investigations.
A hands-on curriculum that provides students with diverse and meaningful practical experiences.
A collaborative, practical-focused curriculum that fosters teamwork and the development of group work skills.

Science Lessons

Impact

Studying science develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills that apply to everyday life. It encourages curiosity, enhances understanding of the world, and provides a strong foundation for further education or careers in science and technology.

GCSE outcomes for GCSE Combined Science, GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics.

2024	GCSE Combined Science	GCSE Biology*	GCSE Chemistry	GCSE Physics
9-4%	77.1	100	94.7	94.7
9-5%	51.3	93.3	92.0	92.0
9-7%	10.1	38.7	34.7	42.7

2023	GCSE Combined Science	GCSE Biology*	GCSE Chemistry	GCSE Physics
9-4%	70.1	100	92.9	96.4
9-5%	48.2	98.2	89.3	87.5
9-7%	6.1	66.1	50.0	51.8

2022	GCSE Combined Science	GCSE *Biology (TAG)**	GCSE Chemistry	GCSE Physics
9-4%	82.4	100	96.7	98.3
9-5%	57.6	100	93.3	93.3
9-7%	10.7	73.3	55.0	65.0

2021	GCSE Combined Science (TAG)	GCSE Biology* (CAG)	GCSE Chemistry (TAG)	GCSE Physics (TAG)
9-4%	78.0	100	100	100
9-5%	47.8	100	100	96.4
9-7%	13.5	30.9	34.5	52.7

CAG – Centre Assessed Grade, TAG – Teacher Assed Grade

*GCSE Biology qualification taken early during year 10

KS3 Curriculum

Year 7 Science curriculum

Students will complete a short introductory unit introducing basic lab equipment and safety before completing the units outlined below.

Biology	Chemistry	Physics
Cells, Tissues - Organs and Systems – In this unit we learn about all life from the smallest to the largest, and how this builds up into a human body	Mixtures and Separation – In this unit we learn about the different types of mixtures, how to put them together and how we separate them again	Energy – In this unit we learn about how energy flows around us in different forms and how humans transfer energy for our own use as fuels.
Sexual Reproduction in Animals – In this unit we teach about how animal life begins and the different ways fertilisation can occur.	Acids and Alkalis – In this unit we explore the roles of acidic and alkaline substances both in the natural world and in the household.	Current Electricity – In this unit we begin talking about the basics of electricity, learning new keywords like current, potential difference and resistance.
Muscles and Bones – In this unit we learn about how the body systems work in synergy with each other to make sure we are functioning correctly	The Particle Model – In this unit we learn how particles make up all things and how their arrangement changes from solids to liquids to gases.	Forces – In this unit we expand on KS2 teaching of forces including: types of forces, friction, pressure and how we can calculate forces.
Ecosystems- In this unit we learn about the natural world and how we rely on it as much as it relies on us as well as what effects we have on it.	Atoms, Elements and Compounds - In this unit we discover the basic building blocks of the universe and how they make the substances we use every day.	Sound- In this unit we uncover how sound travels in air, solids and liquids as well as discovering how humans use sound to aid us in our work.

Year 8 Science curriculum

Biology	Chemistry	Physics
Food and Nutrition – In this unit we work closely with the PE department to expand on the food plate, reading food labels and testing for nutrients.	Combustion – In this unit we expand on the uses of combustion in science in the context of the Earth, reactions and how combustion is affecting current events.	Fluids – In this unit we learn about liquids and gases, atmospheric and deep-sea pressures as well as how we use floating and sinking to our advantage.
Plants and Reproduction – In this unit we broaden previous work on plants to look at what these plant structures do and how they assist in seed dispersal and fertilisation.	The Periodic Table – In this unit we discover the history of the atom and the Periodic table. We go on to learn how we read the periodic table and the trends of it.	Light – In this unit we broaden ideas about how light travels and how we see the world around us with key focuses on the eye and how we see light
Breathing and Respiration – In this unit we focus on the key differences of respiration and breathing, the different types of respiration and how the lungs are adapted to their function.	Metals and Their Uses – In this unit we develop ideas on the properties of metals vs non-metals, their uses and how metals have changed through time.	Energy Transfers – In this unit we look at how we transfer heat to substances in different ways. We also look at how we insulate homes to lower energy bills.
Unicellular Organisms - In this unit we focus on the smallest organisms form Bacteria to Yeast, what they do and how they were discovered.	Rocks- In this unit we work closely with the Geography department to widen our view on rocks and what they can tell us about the history of the Earth.	Earth and Space - In this unit we see all aspects of space starting with simple navigation using stars and constellations to then finish with looking at satellites and an expanding universe.

Year 9 Science curriculum

Biology	Chemistry	Physics
Genetics and Evolution – In this unit we start to begin setting up for KS4 units while looking at the links between extinction, evolution and variation.	Making Materials – In this unit we discuss the properties and uses of key materials in life including Ceramics, polymers and composites.	Forces and Motion – In this unit we look at how forces shape motion and what laws control it, we begin to look at speed calculations and levers also.
Plant Growth – In this unit we continue to build for KS4 by further deepening our learning on plant structures and photosynthesis.	Reactivity – In this unit we broaden our look at chemical reactions and why some elements are more reactive than others, as well as looking at how these reactions are useful to us.	Force Fields and Electromagnets – In this unit we discover the true force fields and the different types of them as well as beginning to look at magnets and their many uses.
Biology Revision and Projects – In this unit we will discuss and design a biological project to complete in our lessons, finishing with concluding our findings.	Chemistry Revision and Projects – In this unit we will discuss and design a chemistry project to complete in our lessons, finishing with concluding our findings.	Physics Revision and Projects – In this unit we will discuss and design a Physics project to complete in our lessons, finishing with concluding our findings.
Biology Transition to GCSE - In this unit we focus on key concepts travelling through all of KS4 including human transport systems and diseases	Chemistry Transition to GCSE – In this unit we focus on the key concepts of Chemistry during GCSE including reactions, bonding and the use of modern materials.	Physics Transition to GCSE - In this unit we focus on the key concepts of Physics during GCSE including the use of equations, magnetism and energy transfers.

National Curriculum KS3 Science - National Curriculum Science 2013_.pdf

Science Homework

KS4 Curriculum

Year 10 and 11 - GCSE curriculum

Exam board - Pearson

GCSE Combined Science (1SC0)

All examinations are completed at the end of Year 11 (6 exam papers - each worth 16.67%). A mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions. Calculators may be used in the examinations. All papers to be completed at either Foundation tier grades 1-1 to 5-5 or Higher tier grades 4-4 to 9-9.

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Paper 1:

Key Concepts in Biology - Cells and Control - Genetics - Natural Selection and Genetic Modification - Health, Disease and the Development of Medicine (1SC0/1BF, 1SC0/1BH)

Paper 2:

Key Concepts in Chemistry - States of Matter and Mixtures - Chemical Changes - Extracting Metals and Equilibria (1SC0/1CF, 1SC0/1CH

Paper 3:

Key Concepts of Physics, Motion and Forces - Conservation of Energy - Waves - Light and the Electromagnetic Spectrum – Radioactivity (1SC0/1PF, 1SC0/1PH)

Paper 4:

Key Concepts in Biology - Plant Structures and Their Functions - Animal Coordination, Control and Homeostasis - Exchange and Transport in Animals - Ecosystems and Material Cycles (1SC0/2BF, 1SC0/2BH)

Paper 5:

Key Concepts in Chemistry - Groups in the Periodic Table - Rates of Reaction and Energy Changes - Fuels and Earth Science (1SC0/2CF, 1SC0/2CH)

Paper 6:

Key Concepts of Physics - Energy - Forces Doing Work - Forces and Their Effects - Electricity and Circuits - Magnetism and the Motor Effect - Electromagnetic Induction - Particle Model - Forces and Matter (1SC0/2PF, 1SC0/2PH)

Pearson (Edexcel) GCSE Combined Science Specification - GCSE Combined Science

Triple Science – GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics

Exam board - Pearson

3 separate GCSE’s covering concepts in greater detail. 2 exams per GCSE worth 50% for each GCSE course. A mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions. Calculators may be used in the examinations. All papers to be completed at either Foundation tier grades 1-1 to 5-5 or Higher tier grades 4-4 to 9-9.

GCSE Biology papers are completed during May/June of year 10. GCSE Chemistry and Physics papers are completed at the end of Year 11.

GCSE Biology (1BI0)

GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)

GCSE Physics (1PH0)

Paper 1:

Key Concepts in Biology - Cells and Control - Genetics - Natural Selection and Genetic Modification - Health, Disease and the Development of Medicines (1BI0/1F, 1BI0/1H)

Paper 1:

Key Concepts in Chemistry - States of Matter and Mixtures - Chemical Changes - Extracting Metals and Equilibria - Separate Chemistry 1 (1CH0/1F, 1CH0/1H)

Paper 1:

Key Concepts of Physics - Motion and Forces - Conservation of Energy - Waves - Light and the Electromagnetic Spectrum - Radioactivity – Astronomy (1PH0/1F, 1PH0/1H) 

Paper 2:

Key Concepts in Biology -Plant Structures and Their Functions - Animal Coordination, Control and Homeostasis - Exchange and Transport in Animals - Ecosystems and Material Cycles (1BI0/2F , 1BI0/2H)

Paper 2:

Key Concepts in Chemistry - Groups in the Periodic Table - Rates of Reaction and Energy Changes - Fuels and Earth Science - Separate Chemistry 2 (1CH0/2F, 1CH0/2H)

Paper 2:

Key Concepts of Physics - Energy - Forces Doing Work - Forces and Their Effects - Electricity and Circuits - Static Electricity - Magnetism and the Motor Effect - Electromagnetic Induction - Particle Model - Forces and Matter (1PH0/2F, 1PH0/2H)

Pearson (Edexcel) GCSE Biology Specification GCSE Biology

Pearson (Edexcel) GCSE Chemistry Specification GCSE Chemistry

Pearson (Edexcel) GCSE Physics Specification GCSE Physics

STEM Club projects

During the Summer term, the Stem Club members were engaged in more exciting projects. They all helped to build an air ship balloon and test its flight in different conditions. It was very windy so it was very challenging to get it to fly. We had to make minor amendments to the design to get the best results.

The STEM scientists also investigated combustion reactions and how it produces an enormous amount of energy. The Whoosh bottle demonstration certainly proved the enormous power of combustion reactions.

Useful Links

Educake (https://my.educake.co.uk/student-login)

Focus E-Learning (Ask teacher for username and password) ( https://www.focuselearning.co.uk/ )

BBC Bitesize – KS3 Science https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zng4d2p

BBC Bitesize – GCSE Combined Science Pearson Edexcel https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zqkww6f

BBC Bitesize – GCSE Biology Person Edexcel https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zcq2j6f

BBC Bitesize – GCSE Chemistry Person Edexcel https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zy984j6

BBC Bitesize – GCSE Physics Person Edexcel https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/zqpshv4

Careers in Science

Whether your passion lies in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, there are countless science careers that cater to a wide range of personalities and interests. Science careers are at the cutting edge of innovation and development, offering opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the future.

Here are some examples of exciting and diverse career paths built on the foundations of science:

A – Astronomer: Study stars, planets, and the universe.
B – Biotechnologist: Work on genetic research and medical innovations.
C – Chemical Engineer: Design processes to create everyday products.
D – Data Scientist: Analyse big data to solve real-world problems.
E – Environmental Scientist: Protect the environment and tackle climate challenges.
F – Forensic Scientist: Examine evidence to help solve crimes.
G – Geologist: Study rocks, minerals, and the Earth’s processes.
H – Hydrologist: Investigate water cycles and resources.
I – Immunologist: Research how the immune system fights diseases.
J – Jet Propulsion Engineer: Develop spacecraft engines and propulsion systems.
K – Kinesiologist: Study human movement to improve health and performance.
L – Laboratory Technician: Support scientific research and experiments.
M – Marine Biologist: Study ocean life and ecosystems.
N – Nuclear Technician: Handle nuclear technology and energy production.
O – Oceanographer: Explore and study oceans and marine environments.
P – Pharmacist: Dispense medications and advise on healthcare.
Q – Quantum Physicist: Study the smallest particles in the universe.
R – Robotics Engineer: Design and build intelligent machines.
S – Science Teacher: Inspire students to explore scientific concepts.
T – Toxicologist: Study the effects of chemicals on health and the environment.
U – Urban Planner: Use environmental science to design sustainable cities.
V – Veterinarian: Provide medical care for animals.
W – Wildlife Biologist: Research animals in their natural habitats.
X – X-ray Technician: Use imaging technology to help diagnose patients.
Y – Yacht Designer: Apply physics and engineering to create efficient boats.
Z – Zoologist: Study animals and their behaviour in the wild or captivity.

Student Comments

“I enjoy Science because you learn about how things work and it’s also interactive and fun.” Niamh G

“Fun, exciting and challenging. What’s not to love!” Derya E

“I loved learning about the aerobic and anaerobic respiration because it was fun to experiment. “ Esther-Grace A

“Y8 Science has been a blast, the subject has so much material to cover and the lessons re-ignite the flame in me for Science every time!” Nathan F

“Science is so much fun because of the experiments and how we get to learn and explore. “ Darasimi A

“Science is amazing and fun!!! I love learning about new things every day.” Thalia M