Science
This course covers a wide range of topics in Physics, Biology and Chemistry.
If you're willing to put in the work, Junior Cycle Science is one of the more straightforward exams to prepare for as the information you need to remember is very factual i.e. no waffling. Ensure you learn your definitions as these comprise a large part of the exam.
Course Content
- NoS - Investigating Science
Biology
- Biodiversity
- Breathing System
- Cells
- Circulatory System
- Digestive System
- Ecology & Habitat Study
- Evolution
- Genetics
- Human Health
- Human Reproduction
- Photosynthesis
- Plant Growth & Reproduction
- Respiration
Chemistry
- Acids & Bases
- Chemical Reactions
- Common Gases
- Elements, Compounds & Mixtures
- Metals & Non-Metals
- Separating Mixtures
- Solutions
- States of Matter
- The Atom
- The Periodic Table
Earth & Space
- Earth in Balance
- Earth, Sun & Moon
- Energy Sources
- Origin of the Universe
- Space
- Water & Carbon Cycles
Physics
- Density
- Electricity
- Energy
- Forces
- Measurement
- Speed, Velocity & Acceleration
Assessment
- Written Exam
- 2 Classroom-Based Assessments
- Assessment Task
Written Exam
The final exam is a two-hour, common-level paper. This is worth 90% of overall marks.
Classroom-Based Assessments
Students are required to complete 2 CBAs. CBA 1 is titled 'Extended Experimental Investigation'. Students must formulate a scientific hypothesis and conduct an experimental investigation to test this hypothesis. CBA 2 is titled 'Science in society investigation'. Students will research a socio-scientific issue and analyse the information they collect to draw evidence-based conclusions about the issue.
Assessment Task
This is worth 10% of overall marks. Students must complete a written reflection task that is related to CBA 2. The content and format of this task may vary from year to year.
Any tips for doing well in Junior Cycle Science?
- Make sure you go over your definitions as many questions will ask you to define a key term.
- In Physics make sure you learn off your formulas.
- The exam tends to cover most of the topics so it's not a good idea to take shortcuts by leaving out topics.
- Don't forget to go over your experiments as these always make up a big part of the exam. Practicing past exam papers is especially important in Science.
- Study one topic at a time and then go through that topic on Studyclix comparing your answer with the marking scheme.
Future Careers
Studying Science equips students with skills that are useful for a variety of careers in Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Healthcare, Space Science, Teaching and Biomedical Technologies.
Download the Junior Cycle Science Syllabus
Download the Junior Cycle Science Chief Examiner's Report (2010)
Download the Junior Cycle Science Guidelines for Teachers
