Science Department Staff

Biology

Mr S Stevens (Principal Teacher)
Ms G McGowan
Dr Y Fleming

Chemistry

Mr Keir (Principal Teacher)
Mrs Cochrane
Mrs C Templeton

Physics

Mr S Stevens (Principal Teacher)
Mr S McAllister

 

S1/S2 Science

All pupils in S1 and S2 follow a combined Science course, which includes elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

In S1, pupils work on a short Introduction to Science unit, followed by six separate topics, taught on a rotation basis. In S2, pupils study a further six topics. There is an assessment at the end of each topic, incorporating Knowledge and Understanding and Problem Solving elements.

The six topics covered in S1 are:

Acids and Metals; Biodiversity ; Cells and Body systems ; Light and Beyond; Model of Matter;, Space and Gravity.

The five topics covered in S2 are:

Fertilisation & DNA; Powerful stuff; Microbes and you; Periodic Table and Chemical Reactions; Hot Stuff.

Occasionally pupils have the opportunity to research a TOPICAL ISSUE in science. In the past few years this has included topics such as Ebola, Tsunamis and the horse meat scandal.

Homework is issued regularly. The work covers literacy and numeracy as well as science.

S3 BGE

In S3 pupils are taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics by subject specialists. The pupils rotate between the science specialisms every 6 weeks. In S3, pupils are exposed to the Experiences & Outcomes of CfE level 4.

The topics covered are Atomic structure & Chemical analysis, Chemical reactions, Transport in living things, Enzymes, Forces and Energy.

As well as knowledge being extended the pupils investigative skills and research skills are developed.

Homework is issued regularly. The work covers literacy and numeracy as well as science.