GCSE
Performance based on individual PPE papers:
Biology PPE – 15 pupils secured B+
Chemistry PPE – 10 pupils secured B+
Physics PPE– 12 pupils secured B+
Overall performance based on all three PPE papers and
ISA scores:
Grade A - 2 pupils
Grade B - 15 pupils
B1 19 C
C1 25 D
P1 12 U
ISA 37 C
= Overall D… 7 more marks in total moves to C grade
B1 25 C
C1 19 D
P1 25 C
ISA 42 A
= Overall C… 9 more marks in total moves to B grade
Biology 6 th June
Chemistry 10 th June
Physics 12 th June
Lack of simple recall e.g. name a plant hormone – couldn’t be answered.
Not attempting whole questions
Not being specific enough in answers e.g. ‘pollution’, ‘waste gases’ instead of ‘carbon dioxide or sulphur dioxides’
Not using any of the information in the question
Rephrasing the question as an answer without saying anything new!
Simply quoting back data without actually explaining what it meant or manipulating it.
Mark a minute so time yourself carefully
Start by going through and answering all the ones you can do first so you don't run out of time on questions you could have answered
Underline command words describe, explain, suggest in the question
Read all the data given as the information provides answers
Use data and quote back facts in your answer when it tells you to.
Use the equation sheets and carefully select the correct equations to use – you may need to use more than one for a question
Check you haven't missed out one mark questions where there aren't lines to write e,g if you have to add plots or a line of best fit to a graph
Show working out for all calculations and equations that you have used
Include units in all your answers
6 mark QWC questions involve extended writing just like we've practiced in class
Brainstorm useful scientific keywords and put them in the margin before you start. This will help develop your answer
You can use bullet points if it helps you sequence your ideas they must still be full sentences for QWC marks
Read back your work to check spellings and
grammar is accurate to get the QWC mark
These questions could be asking you to write a practical method - remember to include what you will measure, equipment and controls
If you fail to achieve a minimum of a C grade overall and need to resit you will be required to re-enter for the whole Core Science qualification
This would mean resitting all three exams and a new piece of coursework (ISA) alongside your Additional
Science GCSE
You cannot resit just one of the exams to improve your grade.
DON’T just read the textbook/revision guide, you need to actively engage with the material….
The Science booklet outlines the topics you need to revise with a link to Bitesize and AQA past papers
Use Bitesize – there are pages of notes you can print and highlight, animations and tests
Use the revision tests on Bitesize to assess your understanding at the end of each topic
Practice as many past papers as possible and carefully read the mark schemes so you develop your understanding of what the examiners are looking for
Answer the questions in the CGP revision guides and
workbooks to test your understanding
Science A levels can lead to careers in:
Forensic science
Engineering
Mechanics
Veterinary and Medical Science
Teaching
Pilot
Psychologist
Geologists
Food Scientist
Medical Research
Electrician
Zoologist
Pharmacist