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Science

Key Stage 4

Key stage 4 starts in year 9. Students follow one of two routes, either the AQA GCSE triple science programme or, a bridging course that develops their level of understanding while preparing them for entry onto one of two GCSE courses, AQA GCSE applied science or a BTEC Diploma in applied science.

AQA GCSE Triple Science

If successful, students will be awarded with a GCSE grade for each science discipline, biology, chemistry and physics.

Triple science has proved to be an excellent course in preparing and providing students with the knowledge and understanding to progress to A level sciences, while providing a challenge and opportunity to develop skills required for a range of post 16 qualifications and careers.

AQA GCSE Applied Science

The course provides pupils with an opportunity to explore and investigate the range of practical and vocational applications science plays in society. The course is biased towards portfolio work which the students build up over the course of 18 months. Unit 1 explores the role of science in the workplace and focuses on health and safety at work while allowing the pupils to research the use of science within organisations, identifying a range of scientific careers available. Unit 3 is based around practical investigations, where students apply scientific analytical tests to a range of vocationally set scenarios. Unit 4 continues where unit 3 finished and students are asked to use science to explain and create a range of scientific products ranging from an electronic monitoring device to a chemical fertiliser. Unit 2 is the only examined unit. It is a one and half hour written assessment that tests their knowledge on the core scientific principles set in a vocational context. The course results in the award of two GCSE grades.

EDXCEL BTEC Diploma in Applied Science

What is a BTEC First? A BTEC First is a practical, work-related course. You learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. It introduces you to the employment area of science and provides a good basis to go on to a more advanced work-related qualification.

The BTEC First Diploma:

The BTEC First Diploma is worth the equivalent of 4 GCSE’s (A*-C). You will complete 6 units of work over the two years, which are scientific principles, chemistry applications, physical science applications, biological systems, science and the world of work and forensics science applications

Preparation for your future career…

This qualification provides a route to employment as a science technician or assistant practitioner working in a wide variety of roles in the science industry or in organisations that use science. These can include roles such as:

· Medical physics technician using X-ray or other imaging techniques

· Research laboratory assistant developing new drugs and chemical analysis

· Quality control analyst in a laboratory carrying out analytical testing

· Forensic scientist

· Scientific magazine journalists, preparing articles and reports

How are BTEC Firsts assessed?

BTEC Firsts are 100% coursework and the assessment approach allows you to gain feedback on your progress throughout the course as you produce evidence towards the assessment criteria. Evidence for assessment may be generated through a range of activities including assignment and project work, case studies, workplace assessment, role play and oral presentation. You will be encouraged to take responsibility for your own learning and achievement.

You must complete all units and for each one you will gain a Pass, Merit or Distinction. You will also be awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction as your overall grades depending on how many points you have gained throughout your programme of study.

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