choosing your subjects
Why study Separate [Triple] Science?
Separate Science provides a deeper understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. It is ideal for students who want to pursue science-related careers or study science at A-level and beyond.
Studying Separate Science will enable you to:
- Explore topics in greater depth than Combined Science.
- Develop advanced practical and analytical skills.
- Prepare for higher education in science, medicine, or engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions about combined science
What will I learn?
Students studying AQA Separate Science GCSE will gain a deeper and more detailed understanding of biology, chemistry and physics compared to the Combined Science course. Each subject is taught as an individual GCSE, allowing students to explore advanced concepts such as genetics, biochemistry, chemical equilibria, and nuclear physics. The course emphasises scientific enquiry, practical investigations and data analysis, with students completing a greater number of required practicals to develop precision and problem-solving skills. Mathematical applications are integrated throughout, supporting calculations in topics like chemical reactions, energy transfers and forces. This rigorous approach prepares students for A-level sciences and opens pathways to careers in medicine, engineering, research and other science-based fields.
Separate Science includes 28 required practicals (10 Biology, 8 Chemistry, 10 Physics), developing:
- Advanced observation and measurement skills.
- Hypothesis formulation and testing.
- Data collection, processing, and interpretation.
| Topic | Biology | Chemistry | Physics |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cell Biology | Atomic structure & the periodic table | Energy |
| 2 | Organisation | Bonding, structure and matter | Electricity |
| 3 | Infection and response | Quantitative chemistry | Particle model of matter |
| 4 | Bioenergetics | Chemical changes | Atomic structure |
| 5 | Homeostasis and response | Energy changes | Forces |
| 6 | Inheritance, variation and evolution | Rate of chemical change | Waves |
| 7 | Ecology | Organic Chemistry | Magnetism |
| 8 | Chemical Analysis | Space physics | |
| 9 | Chemistry of the Atmosphere | ||
| 10 | Using resources |
how will i be assessed?
Students taking AQA GCSE Separate Sciences are assessed through three individual GCSEs – biology, chemistry and Physics. Each with two written examination papers at the end of Year 11. The exams include a variety of question types such as multiple choice, structured questions, short answers and extended responses. Students are assessed on their understanding of scientific concepts in greater depth than Combined Science, as well as their ability to apply knowledge to unfamiliar contexts, analyse data and demonstrate practical and mathematical skills.
| Biology | Chemistry | Physics | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 1-4 50% of biology grade |
1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 1-5 50% of chemistry grade |
1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 1-4 50% of physics grade |
| Paper 2 | 1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 5-7 50% of biology grade |
1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 6-10 50% of chemistry grade |
1 Hour 45 minutes Topics 5-8 50% of physics grade |
Which Course Will I Follow?
Students will follow the AQA Separate Science GCSE courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
What equipment will I need?
Standard writing materials, a scientific calculator, and basic stationery.
Where can this subject take me?
Separate Science is highly valued for progression to A-level sciences and university courses such as:
- Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science
- Engineering and Chemical Engineering
- Biochemistry, Genetics, and Biomedical Sciences
Environmental Science and Forensics - Careers in healthcare, research, and technology
How Can I Support My Child at Home?
Encourage your child to:
- Revise regularly and complete homework on time.
- Use recommended revision guides and online resources.
- Practice exam-style questions.
- Engage with science in everyday life through documentaries, articles, and discussions.
