Curriculum Overview
We follow the scheme of learning provided by 'Edexcel Exploring Science International'.
The Edexcel Exploring Science International KS3 curriculum helps students build their understanding of science step by step, with key ideas revisited over time so they really stick. It includes fun experiments, detailed content, and engaging activities to make science enjoyable and accessible for all.
Most importantly, it links perfectly to the Edexcel iGCSE course we follow in Year 10 and 11, giving students a strong foundation and a smooth transition into their exam years.
'What you need to know' sheets for Year 7 Science
Below are the 'what you need to know' statements for all the year 8 topics in science. They contain statements that can be examined in assessments throughout the year.
| Topic | What you need to know sheet | General overview |
|---|---|---|
| 7A Cells, Tissues and Organs | 7a Cells WYNTK sheet.pdf | In this topic we learn all about cells, and help contribute to the seven life processes. |
| 7C Muscles and Bones | 7C Muscles and Bones WYKTK Sheet.docx | In this topic we will learn about the science behind fitness, and how our skeletal, muscular and circulatory system all work together. |
| 7D Ecosystems | 7D WYNTKS.doc | In this topic we will learn about variation, adaptations, and food chains! |
| 7E Mixtures and Separation | 7E Mixtures and separating techniques WYKTK.docx | In this topic we will be learning about mixtures and how we can separate them using physical techniques!. |
| 7F Acids and Alkalis | 7F Acids and Alkalis WYKTK Sheet.docx | In this topic we will be learning about Acids/Alkalis, their uses, and their hazards! |
| 7H Atoms, Elements and Compounds | 7H Atoms, Elements and compounds wyktk .docx | In this topic we will be learning about the elements in the air and the earth. We will be learning about the difference between a metal and a non-metal, and how we can make compounds |
| 7I Energy | 7I Energy WYKTK Sheet.docx | In this topic we will be learning about energy changes and transfers. We will also be learning about fuels and alternative energy resources |
| 7J Current Electricity | 7J Current electricity what you need to know sheet.pdf | In this topic we will be learning all about series and parallel circuits, and the effect of changing current on a circuit |
| 7K Forces | 7K Forces WYKTK Sheet.docx | In this topic we will be learning about different types of forces, and the effect that balanced and unbalanced forces have on objects |
Assessment information
Feedback Tasks: After each topic, students will complete a short multiple-choice quiz in class, along with an extended writing task (a 6-mark question). Teachers will provide written feedback, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement.
Tests: Assessed pieces are kept in school to ensure they are not lost, but students may take home their reflection sheets to support revision and independent study at home. Once two topics have been completed, students will sit a full written assessment to measure overall progress. This assessment will be based on the statements in the 'What You Need to Know' sheet.
Classwork
In Science, we are now using booklets for note-taking in lessons.
- Providing a scaffold during lessons has given us more opportunities to consolidate learning and extend knowledge in greater depth.
- We store our booklets in plastic wallets and keep them in class during the topic. Once the topic is finished, you may take them home for safe storage (we recommend a ring binder folder).
- We also provide application worksheets. These are a series of levelled worksheets designed to support and extend your learning alongside the lessons.
- Students are expected to self assess work in these booklets with a green pen, using the information given in lesson. If you ever miss a lesson, or would like to review something again, all lesson materials can be found on your class OneNote.
An example of our guided notes:
An example of our application worksheets:
Resource list
Please know that it is not necessary to get the following, but I understand that some students prefer that they had a textbook at home. So below are recommended textbooks for KS3 science.
| Book Title | ISBN Number | Use |
Exploring Science International Year 7 Student Book | 1292294116 | Official textbook for Exploring Science |
Edexcel Limited Exploring Science International Year 7 Workbook | 1292294108 | Extra practice for the Exploring Science SOW |
Pearson Education Limited Exploring Science International Year 8 Student Book | 1292294124 | Official textbook for Exploring Science |
Exploring Science International Year 8 Workbook | 1292294140 | Extra practice for the exploring science SOW |
Exploring Science International Year 9 Student Book | 1292294132 | Official textbook for Exploring Science |
These are the most common websites used within Science.
| Website Name | Use | URL | How to access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education Perfect | Online interactive revision, extension and support website used to improve and increase science knowedlge. You can find quizzes, lessons, experiements and more here. Homework may also be set here. | Education Perfect | Learning, Assessment and Analytics Platform | Check your emails for your login. If you are not sure speak to your Science Teacher |
| OneNote | This will be used to store copies of the PowerPoints we use in lessons. This is useful is you are absent, or if you want to use the resources again! | OneNote Class Notebook | Everyone in Year 7 has access to the 'Year 7 OneNote' via Teams. Click 'Class Notebook' on the Year 7 Science general page. When this has been done once, you will be able to see the resources through the normal OneNote site. Log in via Office 365 |
Software List
You will need to make sure the following software is installed on your device as it will be used within this subject.
| Software Name | URL |
|---|---|
| Office 365 | Home | Microsoft 365 (office.com) |