S1 BGE Science

In S1 pupils receive 4 periods of Science each week.  The Science team at Langholm Academy consists of Mr A McLean (PTC/Chemistry), Mrs C Ginns (Biology), Mrs V Hawes (Physics) and Mr J Drummond (Physics). 

In Science lessons at Langholm Academy pupils will have the opportunity to learn about the 3 discreet sciences Biology, Chemisry and Physics, using a variety of approaches, including:

  • active learning 
  • development of problem solving skills and analytical thinking skills
  • development of scentific practical investigation (assignment) and inquiry
  • use of relevant contexts, familiar to yopung peoples experiences
  • appropriate and effective use of technology, real materials and living things
  • emphasis on learners explaining their understanding of concepts, informed discusson and communication

Through involvement in a wide range of open-ended experiences, challenges and investigations, including those related to applicaitons of science, learners develop skills of critical thinking and appreciate the key roel fo the scientific process both in generating knowledge and in applying this to the needs of society

Pupils are taught six topics during S1 - two from each of the three discrete Sciences:

  • Environmental Biology (Biology)
  • Matter (Chemistry)
  • Heat (Physics)
  • Body Systems (Biology)
  • Elements (Chemistry)
  • Forces (Physics)

Each topic covers a range of Experiences and Outcomes as outlined in the BGE (Broad General Education), published by Education Scotland.  The BGE level studied is appropriate to the needs of the individual.  

In S2 and 3 pupils are taught in discrete Sciences, by a subject specialist.  For further information on Science in S2/3 please see the individual (Biology, Chemistry or Physcis) subject pages.

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Topic 1 - Environmental Biology

In our first topic, Environmental Biology, we begin to scientifically measure and assess the world around us. Working as Ecologists we study characteristics, inheritance, habitats and ecosystems to see how the world around us is made up. We will go outdoors to sample the environment and then use everything we have discovered to address the important global issue of Amazon rainforest deforestation.  Below you will see documents containing information on the Learning Intentions and Success Criteria for this topic, as well as a sample of our Homework booklet.

Click to Download Homework whole [pdf 719KB] Click to Download
Click to Download LI and SC [doc 53KB] Click to Download

Topic 2 - Matter

In this topic pupils learn to describe, using particle models and diagrams, the properties of solids, liquids and gases. They will apply this knowledge to explain changes of state in the water cycle in terms of energy being gained or lost  Pupils are also starting to learn about climate change, explaining how the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere have increased over time, through respiration of organisms, deforestation and increased combustion of fossil fuels.

 

Click to Download [539005]Matter Topic Learning Intentions [pdf 239KB] Click to Download
Click to Download [539006]Matter summary notes [pdf 368KB] Click to Download
Click to Download [539007]Matter Homework 1 [pdf 397KB] Click to Download
Click to Download [539008]Matter Homework 2 [pdf 402KB] Click to Download
Click to Download [539009]Matter Homework 3 [pdf 346KB] Click to Download

Topic 3 - Heat

In this topic pupils will apply knowledge from practical investigations to explain how heat is transferred by conduction, convection and radiation. A link is established between heat loss in buildings and the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the building. Pupils will also apply understanding of thermal energy efficiency, conductors and insulators to explain how materials can be used in building design to reduce heat loss, for example, in double and triple glazing.

Click to Download [569786]Heat Summary notes [pdf 532KB] Click to Download

Topic 4 - Body Systems

In this topic we explore three of the major organ systems of the human body - respiratory, circulatory and digestive.  Our young people also have the opportunity to research a fourth system of their choice, producing a scientific poster as a peer-assessed piece of work.  Throughout this topic pupils will be exposed to theory, practical and research work - including the production of an experimental report.  Please see the documents below for the Learning Intentions and Success Criteria for this topic, as well as a sample of our homework booklet.

Click to Download Homework whole (1) [pdf 834KB] Click to Download
Click to Download LI and SC (1) [doc 44KB] Click to Download

Topic 5 - Elements and Compunds

Click to Download [637635]Elements and Compounds Summary Notes [pdf 751KB] Click to Download
Click to Download [637636]Success Criteria [pdf 454KB] Click to Download

Topic 6 - Forces

Forces are all around us and affect everything that we do. In S1 we try a collection of fun experiments to test all kinds of forces, from water dynamics to rocket science!

Click to Download S1 Forces Revision Sheet [doc 0B] Click to Download
Click to Download S1 Forces Glossary [doc 0B] Click to Download