Year 10
Exploring Core
Scientific Principles
The Year 10 curriculum begins by establishing essential knowledge and skills in each of the sciences. In Biology, students explore cell biology, focusing on structures, microscopy and cellular processes such as diffusion, osmosis and active transport. They develop an understanding of how cells function in growth and repair, including mitosis and the importance of specialised cells. As the year progresses, they study photosynthesis and respiration, building a clear link between energy transfer in plants and animals. Pupils are also introduced to the nervous system, reflexes and hormonal control, laying the groundwork for understanding internal regulation and homeostasis.
In Chemistry, the year begins with the fundamentals of particle theory and changes of state, followed by the historical development of atomic models and the structure of atoms, including isotopes and ions. Pupils learn to separate mixtures using practical techniques such as filtration, crystallisation and distillation. This leads into the study of bonding—ionic, covalent and metallic—and how bonding affects the properties of materials. The year also includes key chemical processes such as endothermic and exothermic reactions, electrolysis, and an introduction to acids, alkalis and neutralisation. These topics are supported by practical work and chemical equations to model reactions accurately.
Physics in Year 10 introduces students to atomic structure, density, energy changes in heating and cooling, and pressure in different contexts. Learners then move on to motion, including speed, acceleration, and interpreting motion graphs. They study forces in more depth, applying Newton’s laws to practical situations, and explore the concepts of work, energy and Hooke’s Law in materials. Later in the year, they investigate static electricity and begin working with electric circuits, learning about current, voltage and resistance in series and parallel arrangements. These foundational topics prepare students for more complex ideas in Year 11
Year 11
Applying Knowledge to
Complex Systems
In Year 11, students build upon the foundations laid in Year 10, progressing to more advanced topics across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In Biology, learners deepen their understanding of ecosystems by exploring interactions between biotic and abiotic factors and examining cycles such as carbon and nitrogen. The unit on inheritance introduces meiosis, genetic variation, and the interpretation of genetic crosses, followed by a study of mutations and natural selection. Evolution and classification are covered in detail, along with biotechnology, genetic engineering and feeding a growing population. The year concludes with studies on communicable and non-communicable diseases, the immune response, vaccinations and the development of new medicines.
Chemistry content includes the study of groups of elements in the periodic table, such as the alkali metals, halogens and noble gases. Pupils use the reactivity series to make predictions about chemical behaviour and apply this to metal extraction methods. Reaction rates are explored through practical investigations and data analysis, leading into topics on crude oil, fractional distillation and the environmental impacts of hydrocarbon use. Pupils learn how to improve industrial processes through recycling and life cycle assessments and investigate the composition and evolution of Earth’s atmosphere, as well as the greenhouse effect and pollution.
Physics topics become more complex, starting with waves and the electromagnetic spectrum. Students learn about wave properties, reflection, refraction and uses of different parts of the spectrum. This leads into studies of ionising radiation, radioactive decay and half-life. They also revisit energy in greater depth, focusing on power, efficiency and the generation and transmission of electricity through the National Grid. The course finishes with applications of physics in real-life contexts, including stopping distances and car safety. Throughout the year, pupils sit mock exams and complete regular assessments to monitor progress and prepare thoroughly for the final GCSE examinations
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000