Y8 Science

Head of Department
Mrs R Hodgson

Organisation of the subject:

Students have 4 x 50 minute lessons each week. Considering all the assessments from Year 7, students are placed into sets in Year 8. On each side of the year group there is one higher ability and three mixed ability groups.

Key Concepts (The big ideas underpinning the subject)

Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific areas of biology, chemistry and physics.
Understand the uses and implications of science today and in the future.
Working scientifically: analyse, communicate, enquire and solve.
To see the world analytically, explain phenomena and make predictions.

What will your child be learning?

Breathing and respiration, photosynthesis and ecology.
Atoms, rocks, using chemistry.
Forces, Light and sound, Energy.

Key 'Learning Capacities' in this subject

Persevere with more challenging concepts and ideas.
Develop the confidence to answer questions and ask for help when required.
Be able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Apply techniques learned in previous years and in other areas of science and mathematics.
Develop understanding of the nature, process and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them.

How will your child be learning?

Paired and small group work
Experimental and investigative work ; developing curiosity
Independent thinking and research
Individual teacher/student discussion or whole class discussion

How will learning be assessed?

A test taken in lesson time towards the end of every topic
Topic assessments which guide the pupil through different grades for the topic area
Monitoring of homework and classwork
Questioning by the teacher

What can you do to support your child?

Speak to them about what they have been doing in their lessons
Help with homework
Encourage them to take pride in their work
Consider buying the extra resources we offer; Study Guides.
Encourage reading about science in the media
Help them to learn scientific key words
If they have a passion for science, discuss different science careers with them

Equipment needed for this subject

Pens, pencils, calculator, ruler, exercise book.

Extra-Curricular/Enrichment Opportunities

Working with sixth form science ambassadors
Working with local industries and STEM ambassadors in the Science club
Eco-club