From Anthony Cottingham
Reading, Berkshire
The fall in popularity in A-level physics and chemistry may have a cause so
obvious that the entire teaching profession has overlooked it (Editorial, 24
August, p 3).
A recent inquiry led by Ron Dearing concluded that the most difficult A-level
subjects are mathematics, physics and chemistry. Nevertheless, at most
comprehensive schools it is no longer possible to take GCSEs in physics and
chemistry. Prospective A-level students have to make do with double award
combined science courses. The poor standard of foundation work in physics and
chemistry at GCSE seems to be a perfectly valid reason for avoiding these
difficult subjects at A level.
Of course, the more fashionable comprehensives, such as Holland Park in
Kensington, are bringing back separate sciences, but I fear that most
comprehensives will be stuck with combined science courses for a long time to
come.
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