WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) specification (3430)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) (3430) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official WJEC specification PDF.
Specification overview
The WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) aims to provide a broad and coherent course of study that fosters confidence, curiosity, and a positive attitude towards science. The course supports learners in appreciating how scientific knowledge, processes, and methods are used to explain natural phenomena and to develop technologies that impact society and the environment. It emphasises understanding the interconnectivity of key scientific ideas and promotes investigative and practical skills through hands-on learning. The course also encourages learners to critically analyse scientific evidence, evaluate risks, and apply scientific principles to real-life contexts, preparing them for further scientific study or a variety of careers.Subject content breakdown
Biology
Unit 1: Biology 1
- Cells and movement across membranes
- Respiration and the respiratory system in humans
- Digestion and the digestive system in humans
- Circulatory system in humans
- Plants and photosynthesis
- Ecosystems and human impact on the environment
Unit 4: Biology 2
- Classification and biodiversity
- Cell division and stem cells
- DNA and inheritance
- Variation and evolution
- Response and regulation
- Disease, defence and treatment
Chemistry
Unit 2: Chemistry 1
- The nature of substances and chemical reactions
- Atomic structure and the Periodic Table
- Water
- The ever-changing Earth
- Rate of chemical change
Unit 5: Chemistry 2
- Bonding, structure and properties
- Acids, bases and salts
- Metals and their extraction
- Chemical reactions and energy
- Crude oil, fuels and carbon compounds
Physics
Unit 3: Physics 1
- Electric circuits
- Generating electricity
- Making use of energy
- Domestic electricity
- Features of waves
Unit 6: Physics 2
- Distance, speed and acceleration
- Newton's laws
- Work and energy
- Stars and planets
- Types of radiation
- Half-life
Unit 7: Practical Assessment
- Two selected tasks from Biology, Chemistry, or Physics practicals, assessing experimental skills, analysis, and evaluation
Assessment structure
Unit 1: Biology 1
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment with a variety of question types
Unit 2: Chemistry 1
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment with practical context questions
Unit 3: Physics 1
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment with data response and extended writing
Unit 4: Biology 2
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment
Unit 5: Chemistry 2
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment
Unit 6: Physics 2
- 1 hour 15 minutes written exam
- 15% of qualification
- Tiered assessment
Unit 7: Practical Assessment
- 10% of qualification
- Internally conducted, externally marked
- Includes obtaining results (6 marks) and analysis/evaluation (24 marks)
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding – 40%
- AO2: Application of knowledge – 40%
- AO3: Analysis, interpretation, and evaluation – 20%
Mathematical and Practical Skills
- Minimum 20% of assessment on mathematical skills
- Minimum 15% on practical skills
Grading
- Double award graded on a 15-point scale from AA to GG
- Combination of tiered and untiered components with staged assessment and resit opportunities
Key tips for success
Doing well in your WJEC GCSE Science (Double Award) isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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