GCSE Combined Science Tutors

Why study GCSE Combined Science?

GCSE Combined Science encourages learners to develop confidence and a positive attitude towards science and its role in their lives. This course of study provides a foundation for understanding the material world around us all and how scientific understanding influences society. Students will be taught essential aspects of the complex and diverse phenomena of our natural world and their universal application in society.

What is GCSE Combined Science?

Previously, the sciences at GCSE level were modular. Students would have units of the three scientific disciplines; biology, chemistry, and physics, with assessment being comprised of coursework and end of year exams. The new GCSE Combined Science is a linear course, with set practicals and all assessment taking place at the end of the two-year course.

What is covered in GCSE Combined Science?

The main UK examining boards (AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR, and Eduqas) all offer GCSE Combined Science and follow a similar curriculum. The courses will cover units with a focus on developing how a student understands the key ideas that underpin the sciences. They commonly include:

• Using conceptual models and theories to understand natural phenomena
• Understanding that every effect has one or more causes
• Learning that change is driven by how different objects and systems interact and that these can happen without direct contact
• Learning the scientific process of hypothesis, experimentation, observation, theory, and evaluation
• Understanding that quantitative analysis is a central element of scientific theory

Each subject is broken into topics, which involves students working scientifically on set skills and practical work.

Biology will commonly include:

• Homeostasis and response
• Inheritance, variation and evolution
• Infection and response
• Organisation
• Ecology
• Cell biology
• Bioenergetics

Chemistry will commonly include:

• Atomic structure and the periodic table
• Chemical analysis
• The rate and extent of chemical change
• Quantitative chemistry
• Chemistry of the atmosphere
• Chemical changes
• Bonding, structure and the properties of matter
• Energy changes
• Organic chemistry
• Using resources

Physics will commonly involve:

• Particle model of matter
• Energy
• Waves
• Forces
• Electricity
• Magnetism and electromagnetism
• Atomic structure

GCSE Combined Science is assessed with exams at the end of Year 11. There are six papers; two biology, two chemistry and two physics. Each paper will test knowledge from the specific topic areas. Students will receive a double grade (for example, a 9-9, a 7-8, or a 6-5) that is worth two GCSEs.

Will I need prior learning?

GCSE Combined Sciences builds on topics taught at Key Stage 3 and there are no previous learning requirements to study it.

Where can I use GCSE Combined Science?

The skills gained in GCSE Combined Science are extremely transferable and highly valued by both employers and educators. The development of critical evaluative skills, analytical skills, maths and those required in communicating ideas effectively are all in demand by employers.

GCSE Combined Science would be useful to students who are looking to specialise in a particular scientific field, Economics, Mathematics, Psychology, ICT, or Engineering at sixth form, college or university level. A GCSE in Combined Science can lead to a career as a doctor, vet, architect, farmer, sports trainer and many other options.

Is GCSE Combined Science right for me?

You are the only person who can answer this question and the only person who can judge whether it is right for you or not. However, there are experts who can offer help and advice. The Profs academic consultancy is here to provide advice on your key decisions for your educational path. Combined with expert career advice, we can answer any questions you have about GCSE Combined Science and how it can help your long-term objectives.

If you know that GCSE Combined Science is the right choice for you but are worried about the workload for the course, then the Profs private tuition service is available to help. You can benefit from professional, expert advice from our team of tutors. Why not contact us today to find out more?