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Applied Science

About the course:

The BTEC Applied Science course aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and understanding and apply these where science is used. To enable students to appreciate and evaluate the impact that scientific work has on society and to prepare students for further study on a course in science or in a science-related subject, or for training in a science-related occupation;

The assessment structure comprises three mandatory units and then a choice of one additional unit.

The 3 mandatory units are:

Principles and Applications of Science 1 - This unit covers some of the key science concepts in biology, chemistry and physics. The topic areas covered in this unit include: animal and plant cells; tissues; atomic structure and bonding; chemical and physical properties of substances related to their uses; waves and their application in communications... This unit is assessed through examination at the end of the first year.

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. This unit is assessed through portfolio work.

Scientific 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. In this unit, you will develop the essential skills underpinning practical scientific investigations. As well as drawing on Unit 1 and Unit 2, these skills will be delivered through subject themes ranging from enzymes and diffusion to electrical circuits. This unit will be examined in the second year.

Optional units can include; Microbiology, Genetics, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Electrical Circuits, and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry among many others.


What is expected of you:

You will be expected to attend all lessons and complete all tasks on time. You will need to have a passion for science and be able to cope with the pressures of a demanding course.


What it prepares you for:

Higher Education                                                     

  • Radiography
  • Physiotherapy
  • Forensic Science
  • Applied Science

Careers

  • Technician
  • Dietician
  • Radiographer
  • Forensic scientist

How will it be assessed?

  • Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I- Written examination, 1.5 hours- 90 marks.
  • Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills- Practical investigation and written submission. 60 marks.
  • All other units are assessed portfolio work.

Entry requirements:

  • At least five GCSEs at grades 5-9
  • Students who wish to take BTEC Applied Science you need to achieve 6-9 grades at GCSE Science

Qualification details:

BTEC Nationals Applied Science NQF Level 3 Extended Certificate.


For more information:

If you are an internal applicant, please talk to your science teacher about the possibility of studying BTEC Applied Science in the sixth form. Or you may choose to talk to Mrs K Weston (Senior Lead Science)

If you are an external applicant and would like more details about this course please email sixthform@mosslands.wirral.sch.uk