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Course Description

The Combined science course covers the key concepts and skills found in Chemistry, Biology and Physics so provides a diverse exposure to an extensive range of scientific fields from atomic structure, energy and forces to rates of reaction, ecosystems and human biology. Due to the extensive material covered the combined science course is a double award, counting for 2 GCSEs

This course includes a broad exposure to the historical and contemporary concepts that underpin modern science, inclusive of chemistry, biology and physics. It includes a wide range of required practicals to ensure students will be trained in working scientifically so that they can think scientifically; develop experimental skills and strategies; analyse and evaluate; and develop scientific literacy (inclusive of numeracy, vocabulary and schemas). This course covers content and skills that link with geography, history, mathematics and physical education.

How will I be assessed?

The course is assessed by external exam only. The 6 papers are sat at the end of year 11 and assess different topics:

  • Biology Paper 1: Cell biology; Organisation; Infection and response; and Bioenergetics.
  • Biology Paper 2: Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation and evolution; and Ecology.
  • Chemistry Paper 1: Atomic structure and the Periodic table, Bonding and structure, Quantitative chemistry, Chemical changes; and energy changes
  • Chemistry Paper 2: Rate and extent of reactions, Organic chemistry, Chemical analysis, Chemistry of the atmosphere; and Using resources
  • Physics Paper 1: Energy, Electricity, particle model of matter, atomic structure
  • Physics paper 2: Forces, Waves, electromagnetism and magnetism

Each paper is 16.6% of the GCSE, made up of 70 marks and are 1 hour 15 minutes long. There are different styles of questions including multiple choice, structured, closed short answer, and open response questions. 

40% of marks will be based on demonstrating knowledge and understanding (AO1); 40% of marks will be based on applying that knowledge and understanding (AO2) and 20% on analysing given information and ideas (AO3). There is also a significant maths/numeracy component to the examinations.

Foundation and higher tier versions of the papers are available and students will sit the papers that are most suitable for them. Foundation tier papers are for those likely to achieve a grade between 1 and 5, whereas higher tier papers are for those likely to achieve a grade between 4 and 9.

What will I learn?

Topic

Content

Cell Biology

  • Cell structure; animal & plant cells, microscopy
  • Cell division; stem cells
  • Transport in cells; diffusion, osmosis, active transport

Organisation

  • Animal tissues, organs and organ systems: the digestive system, the circulatory system, cancer
  • Plant tissues, organs and systems

Infection and response

  • Communicable diseases: viral, bacterial, fungal & protist diseases;
  • Human defence; vaccination; antibiotics

Bioenergetics

  • Photosynthesis
  • Respiration

Homeostasis

  • Homeostasis
  • The human nervous system
  • Hormonal coordination in humans

Inheritance

  • Reproduction; DNA & inheritance
  • Variation and evolution; genetic engineering
  • Evolution
  • Classification of living organisms

Ecology

  • Adaptations, interdependence and competition
  • Organisation of an ecosystem
  • Biodiversity and human impact on ecosystems

Atomic structure and the periodic table

  • Simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes
  • The periodic table; groups and their properties

Bonding and structure

  • Chemical bonds, ionic, covalent and metallic
  • How bonding and structure is related to the properties
  • Structure and bonding of carbon

Quantitative chemistry

  • Chemical measurements, conservation of mass
  • Moles, the amount of substance

Chemical changes

  • Reactivity of metals
  • Reactions of acids
  • Electrolysis

Energy changes

  • Exothermic and endothermic reactions

The rate and extent of reactions

  • Rate of reaction
  • Reversible reactions and dynamic equilibrium

Organic chemistry

  • Carbon compounds as fuels and feedstock

Chemical analysis

  • Purity, formulations and chromatography
  • Identification of common gases

Chemistry of the atmosphere

  • The composition and evolution of the Earth’s atmosphere
  • Carbon dioxide and methane as greenhouse gases
  • Common atmospheric pollutants and their sources

Using Resources

  • Using the Earth’s resources and obtaining potable water
  • Life cycle assessment and recycling

Energy

  • Energy stores and changes
  • Energy conservation and efficiency
  • Energy resources

Electricity

  • Current, potential difference and resistance
  • Series and parallel circuits
  • Domestic uses and safety

Particle model of matter

  • Changes of state and the particle model
  • Internal energy and energy transfers
  • Particle model and pressures

Atomic structure

  • Atoms, isotopes and the development of the atomic model
  • Atoms and nuclear radiation

Forces

  • Forces and their interactions
  • Work done and energy transfer
  • Forces and elasticity
  • Forces and motion; momentum

Waves

  • Waves in air, fluids and solids
  • Electromagnetic waves

Magnetism and electromagnetism

  • Magnetic forces and fields
  • The motor effect
  • Electromagnetic induction, transfers & the National Grid

What could I do next?

Students who achieve an AQA Trilogy Science GCSE (Combined Science) have a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics, which allows them to pursue various academic and career pathways. For example:

Further Education:

  1. A-Level Science Subjects – If they achieve good grades, students can take A-Level Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
  2. BTEC Applied Science – A vocational alternative with practical applications.
  3. T Levels in Science – A technical qualification leading to careers in health and science fields.
  4. Other A-Level Subjects – Students can also study subjects like psychology, geography, or engineering, which benefit from a science background.

Career Pathways (Post-16 & Post-18):

  1. Healthcare Careers – Nursing, midwifery, paramedic science (via vocational routes or further study).
  2. Engineering & Technical Roles – Apprenticeships in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering.
  3. Environmental & Conservation Careers – Forestry, wildlife conservation, or environmental science.
  4. Forensics & Laboratory Work – Science technician roles in labs.
  5. Computing & Data Science – Cybersecurity, IT, and data analysis benefit from scientific thinking.
  6. Trades & Technical Work – Electrician, plumber, or vehicle technician, where physics knowledge is useful.

Apprenticeships & Vocational Routes:

  • Science Technician Apprenticeships – Work in schools, hospitals, or research labs.
  • Engineering Apprenticeships – Mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering roles.
  • Healthcare Apprenticeships – NHS roles such as healthcare assistant or radiography support.
  • Environmental Science & Agriculture – Opportunities in sustainability and land management.

STEM-Related Careers That Don’t Require A-Levels:

  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Dental Nurse
  • Health and Safety Officer
  • Food Technician

Even if students don’t continue in science, the problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills gained from AQA Trilogy Science GCSE are valued in many fields.