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Should I take triple science GCSE?
Everyone has to at least take science at GCSE but it’s not compulsory to take GCSE biology, physics and chemistry separately.
It may be tempting to choose the less intensive combined science, but there are many good reasons to consider taking all three separately.
Here we'll answer all your questions on what a triple science (also known as single or separate sciences) GSCE is, if you should do one, and what to do if you're just not sure!
Do I have to take separate science GCSEs if I want to do A-level science?
By taking sciences separately at GCSE level you will cover more content, so you'll be better prepared if you want to take science A-levels. Pupils who take separate GCSE science are also more likely to get higher grades in A-level sciences.
But if you decide not to go for all three science GCSEs, don’t worry, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t go on to do science at A-level.
Should I take triple science GCSE if I want a career in science?
If you’re already thinking about university and careers and are interested in science-based degrees and jobs then it is definitely worth considering taking separate science GCSEs. Most top universities prefer applicants for science subjects to have taken the triple award option at GCSE.
I don’t want to be a scientist. Is it worth doing triple science?
Whatever career you are considering, taking triple science GCSE will set you up well for later life. Employers are crying out for candidates with science-based skills.
"The types of skills you learn studying all three Sciences can be really helpful for all sorts of different careers," says Naomi Weir, Assistant Director at Campaign for Science and Engineering. "Whether it’s doing analytical stuff or developing a scientific way of thinking."
Have a look at our 'Why study' series to learn more about the careers each of the sciences can lead to:
What should I do if I’m not sure?
It might just be a bit early to decide whether or not science is for you. By taking the sciences separately you will be keeping your options open. Contrary to what you might expect, the sciences are actually very different and can lead you in different directions. When you study the sciences in depth, you might find that a particular area of the curriculum grabs you.
If you're still undecided, take some inspiration from Dr Lewis Dartnell. He's in the Atacama desert in Chile, finding out how life developed on Mars. In this video, he explains how science can take you wherever you want to go:
Isn’t triple science just for the clever students?
There’s this idea that only the cleverest pupils should think about taking triple science, and sometimes schools only put forward those who get the highest marks.
But if you love science then you should definitely consider the triple award. Everyone does their best in subjects they enjoy. And you might find that there’s a certain area of science you excel in.
Is triple science GCSE hard?
Many people are put off doing triple science because it seems like a lot of work. If you do the three sciences separately you will do nine final exams and three controlled assessments, which can sound a bit scary. However, more of your timetable will be devoted to studying science, so you'll be better equipped to perform well in the exams. And some students prefer to have multiple opportunities to test their knowledge – even if that does mean more exams!
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