GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy)
Exam Board & Specification: AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
Subject Lead Contact(s):
Mrs L Bond
Mrs K Edwards
What will students study at Key Stage 4?
Year 10: Students consolidate the foundations of all three sciences while developing practical fluency. In Biology they study cell biology and transport, organisation in animals/plants and the immune response; early ecology builds sampling and data skills. In Chemistry, atomic structure/periodicity lead into bonding & structure, quantitative chemistry and energetics. In Physics, energy stores/transfers, circuits and the particle model are taught through required practicals emphasising accuracy, reliability and evaluation; mixed questions interleave Maths and method.
Year 11: The course becomes synoptic: Biology covers homeostasis & response and inheritance/variation/evolution; Chemistry moves to rates/equilibrium, organic, analysis and Earth’s resources; Physics covers forces, waves/EM spectrum and magnetism/electromagnetism. Exam preparation draws on required‑practical understanding and multistep data questions.
What do assessments test?
- AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures
- AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding to new contexts and practical situations
- AO3: Analyse, interpret and evaluate information and ideas, including in the context of required practicals
What are the expectations of my child in this subject?
Bring full equipment, participate actively, complete homework on time, and use retrieval practice and past questions regularly. Keep notes organised and act on feedback promptly.
What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in this subject?
Speak to the teacher early, identify specific topics/skills to target, attend clinics/interventions, and use recommended resources (knowledge organisers, revision platforms, model answers).
How can I best support my child in this subject?
Discuss progress, help plan short and frequent study sessions, encourage targeted practice ahead of assessments, and ensure use of department‑recommended resources and past papers.