Science (Single GCSE)
OCR Twenty First Century Science - Core Science

What are the Key Features?
All students in year 10 who are studying for two GCSE’s in science will study Core Science. Students will study nine modules in total, comprising of 3 biology, 3 chemistry and 3 physics. Students will study the following modules:
 B1: You and Your Genes
 C1: Air Quality
 P1: The Earth in the Universe

 B2: Keeping Healthy
 C2: Material Choices
 P2: Radiation and Life

 B3: Life on Earth
 C3: Food Matters
 P3: Radioactive Materials

How is it assessed?
In the June of Year 10 students will be examined on the modules B1,C1 and P1.

In the January of Year 11 students will be examined on modules B2,C2 and P2.

In the June of Year 11 students will be examined on modules B3,C3 and P3.

Each of these examinations account for 16.7% of the students final GCSE grade.

Also in the June of Year 11 students will sit another examination titled ‘Ideas in Context’. Students are expected to use pre-release materials to demonstrate the ability to apply scientific knowledge and understanding in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar circumstances. This examination constitutes 16.7% of the final grade.

Students are expected to produce two pieces of coursework. The first is a case study, which accounts for 20% of the final GCSE grade, where students are required to select and critically evaluate information to answer a scientific question. The second is a data analysis, where students will be required to present data in an appropriate way and conclude and evaluate their findings. The data analysis accounts for 13.3% of the final GCSE grade.

Why study this course?
The primary aim of the Science course is to enhance students’ scientific literacy and thus lead to a better understanding of Science. It is a course for all students, regardless of their future aspirations, as a preparation for life as a citizen in an increasingly scientific and technological society.