In S1 /S2 Science, pupils have the opportunity to study topics which incorporate all the discrete Sciences and give them experiences which build on their work from primary school and prepare them for entering the senior phase.

In S1 they study 6 topics which form an all round general knowledge of Biology, Chemistry & Physics and this includes topics such as: -

• Cells & Microbes – Learning about cell structure and the different types of cells that exist.
• The Chemical World – Pupils learn about non-living matter and the particle arrangement, and how chemical substances move between the 3 states of matter.
• Energy – Looks at the different forms of energy and their application in the real world.

In S2, pupils study a further 6 topics which include: -

• The Body Systems – looking at cell function within a variety of body systems such as the respiratory, cardiovascular and digestive systems.
• Atoms & The Periodic Table – looking at elements and their properties and at their atomic structure.
• Forces & Space – looking at what a force is and how you measure it and also how these forces relate to other planets in our solar system.

These S2 topics are progressive from the work covered during S1 and allow pupils to achieve an ongoing knowledge of Science which will prepare them for studying one or more Sciences in their third year.

At National 3/4/5 level, pupils will follow a course that is developed from concepts introduced during S1/2 and for Biology this focuses on 3 main topics which are: -

• Cell Biology

The Unit covers the key areas of: cell structure; transport across cell membranes; producing new cells; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins and enzymes; genetic engineering; photosynthesis and respiration.

• Multicellular Organisms

The Unit covers the key areas of: cells, tissues and organs; stem cells and meristems; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; the need for transport; and effects of lifestyle choices on animal transport and exchange systems.

• Life on Earth

The Unit covers the key areas of: biodiversity and the distribution of life; energy in ecosystems; sampling techniques and measurement of abiotic and biotic factors; adaptation, natural selection and the evolution of species; and human impact on the environment.

The general aim of these units is to develop skills of scientific inquiry, investigation and analytical thinking, along with knowledge and understanding. Learners will apply these skills when considering the application of each topic on our lives, as well as the implications on society/the environment. Learners will research issues, apply scientific skills and communicate information related to their findings, which will develop skills of scientific literacy.

At S5/6 level there are a variety of courses on offer which accommodates a range of levels. We currently offer:

• National 5 

 Pupils achieving a Science at National 4 level at the end of S4 can choose to progress to the National 5 course which offers a greater depth of study in the following areas: -

•  Cell Biology 

•  Multicellular Organisms

 The Unit covers the key areas of: cells, tissues and organs; stem cells and meristems; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; the need for transport; and effects of lifestyle choices on animal transport and exchange systems.

•  Life on Earth