Aims
The Science teachers at Cross and Passion are passionate about their specialist subject and endeavour to allow pupils to learn about science in a purposeful and safe environment. There are STEM opportunities in every year group.
At Cross and Passion it is possible to study Science from Year 8 to Year 14 via three different routes. Pupils will study KS3 Science which enables them to choose Single or Double Award Science at GCSE and after this all pupils have a Science option in Post-16.
Staff
Mrs L Cassidy (Chemistry specialist) HOD
Mrs Walker (Biology specialist)
Mrs McGookin (Biology specialist)
Miss E Dowds (Biology specialist)
Mrs B Nevin (Physics specialist)
Mrs J Kelly (Physics specialist)
Dr C Davidison
Mr Ryan McAfee (Science Technician)
Key Stage 3
All students are taught the Northern Ireland Revised Curriculum which provides opportunities to explore a range of topics in the areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics allowing them to build a solid foundation of knowledge to move confidently into GCSE Science subjects. Pupils will also develop Whole Curriculum Skills and Capabilities using scientific methods of enquiry. The Science teachers use every opportunity to incorporate practical work into their teaching which is made possible by access to six fully equipped laboratories and the support of our skilled and experienced Technician. All students have six lessons of Science over the two-week timetable and are taught in streamed ability classes. By the end of Year 10 students can achieve up to a Level 7+ in Key Stage 3 Science and choose from Double Award Science or Single Award Science.
GCSE Science
All students will choose either CCEA GCSE Double Award Science or CCEA GCSE Single Award Science.
Double Award Science
The CCEA GCSE Double Award Science specification is a broad and coherent course that develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the material, physical and living worlds. The pupils who study this course will have three specialist teachers; Biology, Chemistry and Physics and will have twelve lessons in total over a two-week timetable. Again practical work is incorporated at every opportunity in order to develop students’ self-management and problem-solving skills. This specification is unitised so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the two-year course.
With this qualification, students may choose to progress to our GCEs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Life and Health Sciences.
Single Award Science
The CCEA GCSE Single Award Science specification introduces key aspects of science and its methodology. It gives students an overview of topics such as cells, atomic structure and waves. This broad, practical course can help students appreciate the value of science while preparing them for related vocational studies or the world of work. This specification is unitised, with some units available in November, February and Summer, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the course.
With this qualification, students may choose to progress to one of our Post-16 courses, BTEC Level 3 Applied Science or CCEA GCE Life and Health Sciences.
Post-16 Science Courses
GCE Biology
The CCEA GCE Biology specification gives students a deeper knowledge of the organisms that share our planet. They learn about how organisms are built, how they function and how they interact with each other and their surroundings. This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2. Students can take the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification. They can also choose to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification.
Students acquire and develop skills that are valued in further and higher education, as well as in the workplace. These include analysis, evaluation and research. Students also develop an ability to understand complex processes, along with practical skills such as using a microscope, carrying out fieldwork and handling apparatus.
Studying GCE Biology allows students to enter multitudinous higher education courses and opens up limitless career opportunities.
GCE Chemistry
The CCEA GCE Chemistry specification encourages students to appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how chemistry contributes to the success of the economy and society. This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2. Students can take the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification. They can also choose to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification.
The specification encourages students to develop higher order thinking skills, including planning, manipulative skills, data analysis, and interpreting and evaluating results in the practical assessments. Students develop their ability to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar situations.
Studying GCE Chemistry allows students to enter multitudinous higher education courses and opens up limitless career opportunities.
GCE Physics
The CCEA GCE Physics specification encourages students to develop their enthusiasm for the subject and an interest in further studies and careers in physics. Students develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of physics and how they relate to each other.
This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2. Students can take the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification. They can also choose to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification.
The specification helps students to develop advanced study skills, providing a firm grounding for students wishing to progress to higher education in physics or related subjects such as engineering or electronics. Higher education courses in these subjects usually require an A level qualification in physics for entry.
BTEC Level 3 Applied Science
This course is taught by a team of specialist teachers and is assessed using a combination of internal and external assessment. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science is intended as an Applied General qualification for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, possibly in the applied science sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to give a coherent introduction to study of the applied science sector. Designed for learners who are interested in learning about the sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in applied science. To be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.
GCE Life and Health Sciences
The CCEA GCE Life and Health Sciences specification was developed with industry in response to the needs of the growing life and health sciences sector in Northern Ireland.
Life and health science related industries make up over 25% of Northern Ireland’s total economic output and include a diverse range of public and private businesses and employment opportunities, including pharmaceutical, chemical, agricultural, dental, nursing, environmental and allied health professions.
This specification is available at two levels: AS and A2 (Single and Double Award). Students can take the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification. They can also choose to take the AS course as a stand-alone qualification.
This course is offered in collaboration with Ballycastle High School.
Gallery
