S1 Science Course
 
 
 
 
 
 

In S1 pupils follow an integrated science course which includes aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These courses contribute to each young person becoming a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor. The courses are, in general, formed from five broad areas namely;

 

• Planet Earth

• Forces, electricity and waves

• Biological systems

• Materials

• Topical science.

 

The delivery of scientific knowledge is done within familiar contexts drawing on historical and Scottish examples and exploring cross curricular connections. The courses provide opportunities for pupils to develop and practise a range of inquiry and investigative skills, scientific analytical thinking skills, and develop attitudes and attributes of a scientifically literate citizen. The science experience in S1 also supports the development of a range of skills for life and skills for work, including literacy and numeracy.

 

Here are the units of study covered in S1:

 

 
Biology
 

Variety of Life

This course examines the classification of Invertebrates, Vertebrates, Plants and Microbes. It also describes the organisation of complex organisms.

Health and Wellbeing

Describes how the human body works paying particular attention to cells and their function, different body systems, the sense organs and how humans reproduce.

Variety of Life Powerpoint

   Health and Wellbeing Powerpoint
 

Ourselves

This course looks at Diet, Digestion and the Breathing in Humans.

Staying Alive

Examines Blood and Circulation and the Skeleton and Movement.
     

Ourselves Powerpoint

  Staying Alive Powerpoint

 
Chemistry
 

Matter and Acids and Alkalis

Explores the changing states of matter and physical methods of separating mixtures. Pupils measure and adjust pH and describe the significance of pH in everyday life.

Periodic Table and Chemical Reactions

Develops knowledge of the periodic table and explores the making and breaking down of compounds. Experiments involving rates of reaction and the earth’s natural materials are carried out.
 

Elements, Compounds and Mixtures

Explores atoms and molecules with respect to elements and compounds. The uses of metals in relation to their physical properties is also examined.

Chemical Reactions

Develops knowledge of the evidence for a chemical reaction. By experiment pupils investigate the reactivity series and displacement reactions.

 
Physics
 

Energy

Types, sources and uses of energy will be explored to develop an understanding of how energy is transferred and conserved. and the relevence of these concepts will be applied to everyday life. Pupils will explore the nature and sustainability of energy sources and discuss benefits and assess possible risks to form an informed view of responsible energy use. Pupils' knowledge of electricity begins with knowing how to use it safely and this aspect is reinforced throughout learning. Electricity as a means of transferring energy will be explored by investigating circuits and building chemical cells. Pupils will learn about series and parallel circuits and of electrical and electronic components.

Space

Pupils will investigate the effects of friction on motion and explore ways of improving efficiency in moving objects and systems. Pupils will investigate the effect of gravity on objects and predict what might happen to their weight in different situations on Earth and in space or other Celestial bodies. Pupils will explore light and radiations in the electromagnetic spectrum. They will develop their understanding of the properties of light and other forms of electromagnetic radiations.

 
 

 

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