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GCSE Combined Science
Syllabus
The Path to Success with Studylon: Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Combined Science Syllabus Review
As Studylon, we prepare our students for the innovative world of tomorrow by developing their scientific and analytical thinking skills.
The Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Combined Science syllabus integrates Biology, Chemistry and Physics into one comprehensive programme.
It offers a strong foundation for understanding the workings of the universe, the structure of matter and the living world.
In this article, we review the details of this versatile curriculum, which provides students with the advantage of a Double Award, through the Studylon approach.
Basic Structure and Operation of the Exam
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Combined Science is considered equivalent to two separate GCSE subjects due to its content density.
Upon completion, students graduate with two GCSE grades based on their overall performance.
Examples of these grade combinations include:
- 9-9
- 9-8
- 8-8
Students must choose either the Foundation tier or the Higher tier.
Foundation tier covers grades from 1-1 to 5-5.
Higher tier covers grades from 4-4 to 9-9.
All exams must be taken at the same tier.
The assessment consists of six separate written exams, all externally marked at the end of the course.
Exam Sections and Assessment Criteria
Biology
Paper 1 and Paper 2
Each Biology paper accounts for 16.67% of the total grade.
Each exam lasts 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Each paper is assessed out of 60 marks.
The question types include multiple-choice, short-answer, mathematical and extended open-response questions.
Chemistry
Paper 1 and Paper 2
Each Chemistry paper accounts for 16.67% of the total grade.
Each exam lasts 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Each paper is assessed out of 60 marks.
The question types include multiple-choice, short-answer, mathematical and extended open-response questions.
Physics
Paper 1 and Paper 2
Each Physics paper accounts for 16.67% of the total grade.
Each exam lasts 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Each paper is assessed out of 60 marks.
The question types include multiple-choice, short-answer, mathematical and extended open-response questions.
Core Topics Covered
Biology
Biology topics include cell biology, genetics, natural selection, ecosystems, human health, disease and the development of medicine.
Chemistry
Chemistry topics include states of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical reactions, metal extraction, the atmosphere and Earth’s resources.
Physics
Physics topics include forces and motion, conservation of energy, waves, the electromagnetic spectrum, radioactivity and electrical circuits.
Core Skills Developed
Mathematical Skills
Science cannot be considered separately from formulas.
At least 20% of the total marks across all exams are dedicated to mathematical skills.
The mathematical skill weighting is structured as follows:
- Biology: 10%
- Chemistry: 20%
- Physics: 30%
For this reason, the use of a calculator is permitted in the exams.
Core Practicals
The curriculum includes 18 mandatory laboratory experiments.
Although there is no separate practical exam, students’ ability to design experiments, observe, analyse risk and draw conclusions is tested directly within the written exams.
These practical-based skills account for at least 15% of the total marks.
GCSE Combined Science Preparation with Studylon
As the Studylon family, we ease the heavy theoretical load of three different science branches and build an efficient study strategy with our academic coaches.
From mastering practical questions to tackling complex physics formulas, our expert tutors are always by your side.
Contact us today to unleash your scientific potential and achieve two prestigious GCSE grades with the Double Award.