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The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to give a coherent introduction to study of the applied science sector. It is a vocational qualification with the following aims:
Examination and Coursework Details58% external assessment, with opportunities to take examinations in January and May in Years 12 and 13. Unit 1 is assessed in Year 12 with three 40 minute examinations Unit 3 is assessed in Year 13 with one examination of 135 minutes 42% internal assessment in Years 12 and 13. Unit 2 requires learners to complete practical tasks and produce four written reports. Unit 8 requires students to research and produce three written reports. Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction, Merit, Pass and Unclassified. The qualifications is graded using a scale of P to D* Course OutlineUnit 1 Principles and Applications of Science I This unit covers some of the key science concepts in biology, chemistry and physics. Unit 2 Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques Learners will be introduced to quantitative laboratory techniques, calibration, chromatography, calorimetry and laboratory safety, which are relevant to the chemical and life science industries. Unit 3 Science Investigation Skills. Learners will cover the stages involved and the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation: how to record, interpret, draw scientific conclusions and evaluate. Unit 8 Physiology of Human Body Systems Learners will focus on the physiological make up of three human body systems (musculoskeletal, lymphatic and digestive), how the systems function and what occurs during dysfunction. Year 12
Year 13
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Please see attached Key Stage 5 Learning Journey for Applied Science.
The requirements of the qualification will mean that learners develop the transferable and higher order skills which are valued by higher education providers and employers. For example, when studying Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills, learners will develop skills including how to plan investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data and communicating results which support some of the skills learners need to progress to higher education, employment, self-employment or training. The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements for many courses if taken alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of learning, including, but not exclusively, those which are science-related. The qualification can be taken as part of a diverse programme, leaving progression options fully open. It can also give context to subjects which would benefit from some scientific background. This will depend on the combination of qualifications chosen. For example, taken alongside:
• A Levels such as Mathematics, Physics and Design and Technology to progress to engineering related courses.
• A Levels in Geography and Computing to progress to geography or environmental science courses.
British values feature in a number of aspects of the BTEC qualification that we provide. Limitations on freedom through health and safety legislation and the rules of the laboratory to ensure safe practice are considered. The approaches to solving scientific problems require students to show tolerance and mutual respect in relation to creating a safe working environment and analysing other learner’s data. The Rule of Law is considered when discussing risks, benefits and ethical issues and regulations associated with medical treatments.