Science

Biology

Introduction
Biology is the study of living things, from cells to ecosystems. If you are fascinated by the huge variety of life on Earth, and wish to gain an insight into how organisms work and interact, then Biology could be for you.
 
What do students study?
At Sidmouth College we follow the new AQA level qualification. A level Biology lasts two years with all examinations taking place at the end of two years. Practical investigations are an essential part of the course.
 
Core Content

• Biological molecules
• Cells
• Organisms exchanging substances and energy with each other and their environment
• Organisms responding to changes in their internal and external environments
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression

How are students assessed?
Assessment is carried out through examinations only. Students will study modules over the two years, leading to an A Level qualification in this subject.
 
Chemistry

Introduction 
Chemistry is all around us; from our sinks to our medicine cabinets, from our cosmetics to the colour of our clothing, and from our fuels, metals, plastics and polymers to the silicon, vital to the computer hardware that we use every day.
 
What do students study?
At Sidmouth College, we follow the new AQA A Level Chemistry course. Many chemical molecules and materials are studied in depth at A Level because of their importance in our increasingly diverse and technological world.  The core content that you will study is listed below.
 
Core Content

• Physical chemistry— including atomic structure, reaction kinetics and thermodynamics
• Organic chemistry— alkanes, alkenes, amines and organic synthesis
• Inorganic chemistry— group 1 and 7, transitions metals and ionic bonding and systems.

How are students assessed?
Assessment is carried out through examinations only. Students will study modules over the two years, leading to an A Level qualification in this subject.

Physics

Introduction
Physicists explore the fundamental nature of almost everything we know. They probe the furthest reaches of the Earth to study the smallest pieces of matter. Join them to enter a world deep beneath the surface of normal human experience. 

What do students study?
Throughout Physics A Level you will study a variety of topics including:
 · Imaging
· Sensing
· Signaling
· Testing Materials
· Wave Behavior
· Quantum behavior
· Mapping Space and Time
· Out into Space
· Our place in the Universe
· Matter
· Electromagnetic machines
· Charge and Field Probing deep into matter
· Ionizing Radiation and Risk

How are students assessed?
​At Sidmouth College we are following the new AQA A Level Physics over two years. Practical investigations are an essential part of the course.
 
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Contact Head of Department, Mrs Janet Ritchie  for further information: