The Science Department The Science Department believes that the subject is a fundamental part of everyday life essential to our understanding of the world. It provides an opportunity for pupils to investigate their environment and seek explanations to satisfy their curiosity of how the world works. During teaching the department strives to show all pupils that their positive contributions are valued, to value each other’s opinions and also to challenge them. We allow the pupils to co-operate with each other and the teacher to get each of them to develop feelings of self-worth and independence as well as to show consideration for each other and the natural world. The department aims to teach in a calm, caring environment and provides work that is both stimulating and challenging. We give each pupil the opportunity to contribute and we stress the importance of listening to other pupils’ opinions. Work is provided based on each pupil’s prior knowledge, understanding and skills and then used to extend and progress each of them.
The aims of the department are;
• to provide an environment in which all pupils can improve their understanding of science and where all pupils are valued
• to stretch each individual to their full potential increasing their science knowledge and understanding
• to develop each pupil’s ability to evaluate evidence, to be able to form opinions but also to listen to each other’s.
• to provide a fun learning environment where pupils learn through enjoyment
At Key Stage 3 our scheme of work is based on QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority) Scheme encouraging engagement, progression and continuity. Lessons are taught using a variety of teaching and learning styles to appeal to all types of learners. Regular ‘assessment for learning’ ensures pupils are aware of their success and are motivated to achieve. A fine balance between experimental work and theory allows the curriculum to be accessed by all.
All KS4 pupils follow OCR Gateway Science which has two terminal exams in Year 10 and two terminal exams in Year 11. The exams are in January and June. At the end of the course pupils will obtain two GCSE grades. Coursework constitutes 35% of both GCSE courses. A small proportion of KS4 pupils also follow Certificate of Achievement (OCR) thus allowing achievement for all.
The department has strong links with our local primary school partners and pupils from those schools visit our department to participate in various science projects utilising specialist equipment. A transition project, which is unique to Dyke House School, takes place during the summer term at primary schools and is followed up during the first week of term in September when they start at Dyke House. Post-16 partners have been into school to discuss options with students considering a future scientific career.
The department consists of seven fully refurbished laboratories, each containing specialist scientific equipment. All laboratories have an interactive whiteboard and projector to allow pupils to participate in the teaching and learning of science and we also have our own ICT (computer) classroom.
The Department runs various extra-curricular opportunities for pupils to continue their learning including a fun club, environment club, GAT (Gifted and Talented) club, and various revision clubs targeted at specific pupils and timed to coordinate with forthcoming exams.
