GCSE Science

GCSEs may the first proper exams you experience and without the correct preparation they can be challenging.

Whether you need help with GCSE Maths, Numeracy, English Literature, Language or the Sciences, we’ve got you covered! 

From revision tips and tricks, to in-depth subject coverage, we’re on hand to help make your GCSE experience as enjoyable and as stress-free as possible. 

WJEC GCSE Science Overview

The WJEC GCSE Science exams in Wales are structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of scientific principles across multiple disciplines. There are several pathways and options available for students, allowing them to focus on different combinations of subjects based on their interests and career aspirations.

Before enquiring about science tuition, it is helpful to know what your child is studying!

Available GCSE Science Qualifications

Most school’s offer GCSE Combined Science (Double Award) and GCSE Separate Sciences (Triple Award). Some may also offer Applied Science which is available as Double Award and Single Award. 

At the Academic Coach we offer support in Double and Triple Award Science. 

 There are two tiers of entry available for GCSE Science: Higher Tier (Grades A* – D) and Foundation Tier (Grades C – G). In most cases, candidates will be assessed within the same tier. Exceptionally, it may be appropriate to enter some candidates for a combination of higher and foundation tier units.

Our GCSE Science Tutors

All of our tutors are fully qualified teaching professionals with DBS.

The Academic Coach

Vicky Thorne

GCSE Science Tutor

The Academic Coach

Nyree Myers

GCSE Science Tutor 

GCSE Combined Science (Double Award):

    • This course covers biology, chemistry, and physics.
    • It is equivalent to two GCSEs.
    • Students receive two grades based on their performance across all three sciences.

GCSE Separate Sciences (Triple Award):

Students can choose to study each science as a separate GCSE subject:

      • GCSE Biology
      • GCSE Chemistry
      • GCSE Physics

Each of these subjects is assessed independently, resulting in a separate GCSE grade for each.

GCSE Combined Science (Double Award):

The assessment consists of six written exam papers: two for each of biology, chemistry, and physics.

      • Each paper typically lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes and is worth 15% of the overall grade.
      • The papers include a mix of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and longer structured questions.
      • Practical skills are also assessed through written questions about experiments and investigations conducted during the course and contribute to 10% of the qualification.

Practical Assessment:10% of qualification

GCSE Separate Sciences (Triple Award):

GCSE Biology:

      • Questions assess knowledge and understanding of topics such as cell biology, genetics, homeostasis, and ecology.
      • Practical skills are evaluated through questions related to laboratory experiments.
      • Two written exam papers, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 45% each.

GCSE Chemistry:

        • Two written exam papers, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 45% each.
        • The exams cover topics like atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, energy changes, and analysis techniques.
        • Practical skills are integrated into the exam questions.

GCSE Physics:

      • Two written exam papers, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 45% each.
      • Topics include forces, motion, energy, waves, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics.
      • Practical investigations are assessed through written questions.

Practical Assessment:10% of qualification

GCSE Combined Science (Double Award):

The grading system for GCSE Combined Science (Double Award) reflects the combined performance in all three sciences. Grades range on a fifteen point scale from A*A*- GG, where A*A* is the highest grade.

GCSE Separate Sciences (Triple Award):

GCSE qualifications are reported on an eight point scale from A*- G, where A* is the highest grade.

GCSE Science Tuition with The Academic Coach

Our science sessions are tailored to tackle the more challenging topics in Chemistry, Physics, and Biology. Throughout the academic year, we aim to cover a wide range of subjects, allowing students to request specific topics as they progress. Our approach is flexible, with a detailed focus on content and plenty of exam question practice integrated into each session. As exams draw near, we conduct intensive exam technique bootcamps that comprehensively cover every topic.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join our upcoming sessions starting in September – secure your spot on our course lists now!

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