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Many students and parents are confused when it comes to choosing the science subjects. What do single award, double award, and triple award sciences really mean?
In this post, we will help you to understand these:
First, let us take a look at one of the frequently asked questions in this topic.
It is noted there are different courses (e.g single award, double
Keith Wong
award & triple award) in coordinated sciences. My son will study IGCSE
Coordinated Sciences (Double Award) 0654 next year. May I know the
meaning of “double award” please?
Is triple award the best compared with double or single award?
All sciences have core and extended curriculum. Students either follow the core curriculum or the extended curriculum. For schooled students, the decision is derived from school’s assessments or teacher’s recommendation. Private candidate (homeschooled students) can freely choose the type of curriculum to follow.
Please bare in mind that, students who follow core curriculum are only eligible for grades C to G. While extended curriculum students are eligible for grades A* to G.
Single Award science, also known as Combined Science, is a subset of Co-ordinated science. It covers biology, chemistry and physics. Students learn the basic principles of each subject through a mix of theoretical and practical studies.
Students are awarded ONE IGCSE, from grade A* to G.
Double Award science, also known as Co-ordinated Science, is a subset of Triple Award Science. It covers biology, chemistry and physics. Students learn clearly defined biology, chemistry, and physics sections, while also developing an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study.
Students are awarded TWO IGCSEs, with 2 identical grades, for example: AA or CC.
For Triple Award science, students are taking 3 separate sciences in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students are learning in-depth topics for each subject, and will be awarded separate grades for each subject. For example: A for Biology, B for Physics and C for Chemistry.
This is considered as THREE separate IGCSEs.
Double Award and Triple Award sciences will open more doors for you if you plan to further your study in science related courses, such as engineering, medicine, pharmacy, pure/applied sciences fields etc., in A-level or university.
Other wise, Single Award science is good enough – if you plan to take non-science related courses such as Law, Accounting, Business Administration etc…
If you’re not sure what is your future plan, we would recommend you to take Triple Award science or at least Double Award science – to keep more doors open for you in the future.
So Keith, this is our A to your Q. Hope you enjoy it. If you do, share it with your family and friends. Best is, sign up at here to receive our free email course, and awesome exam tips!
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Amal Elsayed
Kuwait
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152 responses
Hi, i will be doing combined science this year but my school has recently given me an option to study sperate science(chemistry and physics) but I have to study 1 more year. What do u think I should choose. I’m want to go to engineering field. Can u study sperate science like chemistry and biology in A-levels If you have combined scien o-level degree?
Hello Ali,
If you wish to take Engineering for your future study, we suggest that you take Biology, Physics, and Chemistry as separate subjects. And with regards to A Level, it is also recommended that you complete the O Level equivalent of Chemistry and Biology or Co-ordinated Science prior to starting your A Level.
Hello good morning ! I am presently teaching here in Indonesia, My students first time will take IGCSE COMBINED SCIENCE. This syllabus is really great as an introduction for Middle year Students. But i am a bit confuse the topics that correlated to these subjects (Biology, Chemistry, &Physics). I need an advice pls . Thanks in advance.
Hello Ethelinda,
Combined Sciences (0653) is the combination of three science subjects: Biology, Chemistry and Physics, each covered in separate syllabus sections. It is a single award qualification, earning one grade. Since it has lesser coverage, candidates usually find this easier than the three individual sciences.
Learners gain an understanding of the basic principles of each subject through a mix of theoretical and practical studies, while also developing an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study. They learn how science is studied and practised, and become aware that the results of scientific research can have both good and bad effects on individuals, communities and the environment. As well as focusing on the individual sciences, the syllabus helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.
My son was graded A A for coordinated science in November & now has received B’s for the separate sciences. Does the separates overtake the coordinated or does he have 5 igcses.
Hello Trisha,
In order to complete IGCSE, your son has to choose 5 subjects (or 5 IGCSEs) from 3 different Core Group. The 3 Core Groups are: English Group, Science Group, Maths Group.
At the moment, your son has just completed the subjects from Science Group.
You may check on any university’s entry requirements, to understand what other subjects are required at IGCSE level.
The triple science does not overtake the coordinated science. You may choose which to use in your future study application based on the requirement.
Can I becomes a surgeon if I have co-ordinated sciences. My school doesn’t have triple science.
Hi Saif,
There have been many candidates confirming that taking Double Award entitles them to take Biology and Chemistry in AS / A Level. You may want to confirm this with your school or the A Level college.
hi. can i study diploma engineering with my combined science？or i need to take physic？
Hello Tracy,
As far as we know, the triple science is required for engineering courses. Please write to the university and get the confirmation.
However, if you are already taking Science – Combined (0653), you cannot combine this with Physics (0625), Biology (0610) and Chemistry (0620) in the same examination series.