“I enjoyed the experience that Hamilton College gave me, it set me up for life outside the school. I made a lot of friends and got on very well with all my teachers. As a keen swimmer I loved the pool, I think my favourite part of the school was the P.E department.”

Jayne Massey
Class of 2005

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National Taekwon-do ChampionCongratulations to Gregor Towers (S2) who won gold in his sparring competition at...
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23 May, 2013

Top 3 Place at Salters' Festival of Chemistry

Four S1 pupils, Adam Gardner, Angus Pettigrew, Robbie McGuiness and Claire O'Donnell, represented...
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23 May, 2013

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Holiday

Monday 27 May is a holiday.
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27 May, 2013

New timetable starts

The new timetable will start on Tuesday 28 May 2013.
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28 May, 2013

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S1 & S2 Biology

S1

Units Taught
In S1 we study three units with the aim of capturing the natural enthusiasm of pupils at this age.   The units are based on the experiences and outcomes from Curriculum for Excellence.  The first of these covers "The Building Blocks of Life, Bodyworks and Energy for Life".

Methodology
Throughout the course pupils have the opportunity to take part in practical work both individually and in a variety of group sizes.  All pupils are encouraged to develop their knowledge and understanding, problem solving and investigative skills in this course using a wide variety of resources including netbooks.

Pupil notes:  Pupils make notes in a prepared booklet that is provided by the department at the start of the session.  They are also issued with a Science textbook for use throughout their time in S1.

Homework
Homework is used throughout the course to complement and reinforce the pupils' experience of the work covered.  In addition, regular revision is expected throughout the session.

Assessments
Pupils are assessed throughout this course using classwork, homework and unit tests to monitor their progress. 

S2

Units Taught
In S2 we cover a variety content including: Biotechnology, world of plants and biodiversity.

Methodology
The classes will be mixed ability and within the class pupils will have an opportunity of working on their own and in groups.  A range of teaching approaches ensures that pupils achieve to the best of their ability and enjoy the subject.  The department uses prepared notes and textbooks,  DVD's and computer graphics to present the S2 course.

Pupil Notes: Pupils make notes in prepared booklets that are provided by the department.  Notes will be regularly checked by the class teacher.

Homework
Homework will include completing notes begun in class and answering questions on the current topic.  Homework exercises will also be issued at certain points during the course.  Regular revision is expected throughout the session.  Approximately 1-2 hours of homework per week can be expected.

Assessment
Class tests will be given at the end of section of work with at least one week's notice.  All tests/examinations will assess achievement of knowledge and understanding and problem solving skills and the results will be used in pupil reports.