Combined Science: Trilogy

GCSE course outline

GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy is a broad course which provides students with the core skills required to progress to further studies in Science.

During the course students will study the following components:

Biology

1. Cell biology
2. Organisation
3. Infection and response
4. Bioenergetics
5. Homeostasis and response
6. Inheritance, variation and evolution
7. Ecology

Chemistry

1. Atomic structure and the periodic table
2. Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
3. Quantitative chemistry
4. Chemical changes
5. Energy changes
6. The rate and extent of chemical change
7. Organic chemistry
8. Chemical analysis
9. Chemistry of the atmosphere
10. Using resources

Physics

1. Energy
2. Electricity
3. Particle model of matter
4. Atomic structure
5. Forces
6. Waves
7. Magnetism and electromagnetism

Skills required

Scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding; understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science; observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills; ability to evaluate claims based on critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Assessment method

Practical skills:

Students complete a set of specific practical investigations throughout the course that demonstrate an

understanding of laboratory safety and techniques which will be examined via 15% of the written exam questions addressing their practical knowledge and understanding.

Examinations:

Six examinations are sat at the end of Year 11.

There are two examinations per subject.

Each examination is 1 hour 15 minutes in duration. Students can sit Foundation or Higher Tier for both examinations.

Post 16 opportunities and careers

All AQA Science qualifications provide opportunities for progression.

Combined Science: Trilogy gives students the option to progress to A-levels in Science or other subjects.

Wide range of degrees and careers within the areas of biological sciences, psychology, clinical research, engineering, food science, healthcare, computer science, journalism, meteorology, marine science, science writer, sport.