IGCSE Options Booklet

CORE Biology (Separate Science)

CORE

Chemistry (Separate Science) This qualification develops scientific knowledge, investigative skills, and problem-solving abilities through the study of chemical reactions, bonding, quantitative chemistry, and the Earth’s resources. Students learn to interpret data, apply chemical concepts to real-life contexts, and conduct practical experiments. GCSE Chemistry provides a strong foundation for A-level sciences and careers in medicine, research, engineering, and environmental science.

This qualification develops scientific knowledge, practical skills, and analytical thinking. Students study the structure and functions of living organisms, life processes, ecosystems, and genetics while learning to interpret data, design investigations, and evaluate evidence. GCSE Biology provides a strong foundation for further study in the sciences, medicine, and environmental fields, as well as building skills valued across many careers. following topics: 1. Cell Biology • Structure and function of cells, cell division, and transport in cells. 2. Organisation • Tissues, organs, organ systems, and the human digestive, circulatory, and transport systems in plants. 3. Infection and Response • Communicable diseases, the immune system, and preventing and treating disease. 4. Bioenergetics • P hotosynthesis and respiration processes. 5. Homeostasis and Response • The nervous system, hormonal coordination, and maintaining internal conditions. 6. Inheritance, Variation, and Evolution • D NA, genetics, natural selection, and biodiversity. 7. Ecology Main Areas of Content The course is divided into the

Main Areas of Content The course is divided into the following topics: 1. Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table • Structure of atoms, elements, compounds, and the arrangement of the periodic table. 2. Bonding, Structure, and the Properties of Matter • Ionic, covalent, metallic bonding, and how bonding relates to properties and structures. 3. Quantitative Chemistry • Calculations involving masses, moles, and chemical equations. 4. Chemical Changes • Reactivity of metals, electrolysis, and acids and bases reactions. 5. Energy Changes • Exothermic and endothermic reactions, and energy profiles. 6. The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change • Factors affecting reaction rates, reversible reactions, and equilibrium. 7. Organic Chemistry • Hydrocarbons, alkenes, alcohols, and polymers. 8. Chemical Analysis • Identification of ions and gases, and instrumental methods of analysis. 9. Chemistry of the Atmosphere • Composition, evolution, and human impact on the atmosphere. 10. Using Resources • S ustainable development, water treatment, and life cycle assessments.

Course Details: AQA GCSE Chemistry I. Qualification Code: 8462 II. Assessment Structure: • Paper 1: Topics 1–5 (Atomic Structure to Energy Changes) Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes Marks: 100 Weighting: 50% Format: Written exam; multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response questions Tiering: Foundation and Higher tiers available • Paper 2: Topics 6–10 (Rate of Reaction to Using Resources) D uration: 1 hour 45 minutes M arks: 100 Weighting: 50% F ormat: Written exam; multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response questions Tiering: Foundation and Higher tiers available Potential Trips and Enrichment • University chemistry lab workshops • Science museum visits focusing on materials and industrial chemistry • Green energy or environmental science talks • Forensic Chemistry w orkshops: Simulate crime scene analysis using chemical tests • Environmental Chemistry p rojects: Water testing, pollution studies, or carbon footprint analysis • Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Events

Course Details: AQA GCSE Biology I. Qualification Code: 8461 II. Assessment Structure: • Paper 1: Cell Biology, Organisation, Infection & Response, Bioenergetics Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes Marks: 100 Weighting: 50% Format: Written exam; multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response questions Tiering: Foundation and Higher tiers available • Paper 2: Homeostasis & Response,   Inheritance, Variation & Evolution, Ecology Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes Marks: 100 Weighting: 50% Format: Written exam; multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response questions Tiering: Foundation and Higher tiers available Potential Trips and Enrichment • The Living Rainforest • Science Oxford • BioArt Projects: Drawing cells, organs, or ecosystems • British Olympiads in Biology

• Ecosystems, adaptations, and the impact of human activity on the environment.

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