Science is a general term used to cover three main disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Biology is the study of living things and life processes; Chemistry is the study of the elements, the compounds they form and the reactions they undergo; Physics is the study of the properties and interactions of matter and energy.
Together the exploration of these subjects helps boys to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how things work in the world around us, and build an essential understanding of our existence, our lifestyles and how we interact with this world.
At Caldicott we endeavour to instill good habits into our young scientists from the outset. It is our aim;
- To foster in all boys an interest in and awareness of Science
- To develop the understanding that Science is as much a way of seeing the world around us, and a method of trying to understand it, as it is a body of existing knowledge
- To prepare the boys to pass the Common Entrance or Scholarship examination as appropriate to their ability
- To present the boys with opportunities to carry out practical science investigations so that they may develop their ability within the subject and learn the experimental approach necessary to lead to the discovery of information
Our Science department consists of two light and airy state of the art laboratories with an adjoining complementary prep room. The spaces have been designed to enable the delivery of practical Biology, Chemistry and Physics in well-equipped and spacious surroundings. Boys have the opportunity to do some really exciting hands on Science which enthuses them in the subject and fosters curiosity.
Outline of the Science Syllabus
The importance and relevence of the sciences in today's world is reflected in the importance it is given withon our curriculum, and Science is taught throughout the school from First form to Sixth form.
Boys are introduced to a full range of scientific concepts in their first three years, and the topics that they are taught often mirror what the Senior School boys are taught but at a more basic level. They undertake experimental and practical work in the Laboratories as often as possible. From the Fourth Form onwards topics are studied again in more detail and greater depth.
Year 6 (4th Form)
Chemistry
Solids, liquids and gases
Separating mixtures
Physical changes
Elements, compounds and mixtures
Physics
Circuits
Magnetic fields and electromagnets
The earth and beyond
Biology
Cells and cell functions
Humans as organisms
Year 7 (5th Form)
Chemistry
Elements, compounds and mixtures
Chemical reactions
Limestone
Solids, liquids and gases
Physics
Forces and motion
The behaviour of light and sound
Biology
Green plants
Variation, classification, inheritance
Living things in their environment
Year 8 (6th Form)
Chemistry
Chemical reactions
Metals
Acids and bases
Physics
Energy resources and energy transfer
Biology
Reproduction
Revision
Revision and preparation for their Common Entrance or Scholarship examinations is followed by project work
Senior boys access a detailed version of this programme of study on the school Science Intranet site. They can print out the Science programme of study for the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Forms and use it as a revision check-list for exams.