Applied Sciences

Assessment

Year 1: Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I: A theory-based unit covering key concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. 90 hours of study. (Biology = 30 marks; Chemistry = 30 marks; Physics = 30 marks). Externally assessed: 3 x 40-minute exams sat in January of the first year. Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques: A practical-based unit introducing students to quantitative laboratory techniques (in titration and colorimetry), calibration, chromatography, calorimetry and laboratory safety. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed via laboratory work and practical reports assessed throughout the first year. Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills A practical-based unit covering the stages involved and skills needed in planning a scientific investigation. Topics covered include enzymes, diffusion, plant growth, fuels & circuits. 120 hours of study Externally assessed: 1 x 2 hour 15 minute exam sat in May/June of year 1. Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems A theory and practical-based unit covering 3 human body systems (musculoskeletal, lymphatic and digestive). 60 hours of study Internally assessed via a series of written case study research reports. Year 2: Unit 5: Principles and Applications of Science II A theory-based unit that builds on the fundamentals covered in Unit 1. 120 hours of study (Biology = 40 marks; Chemistry = 40 marks; Physics = 40 marks). Externally assessed: 3 x 50-minute exams sat in January of year 2 Unit 4: Laboratory Techniques and their Application A practical and theory-based unit that covers the importance of health and safety in workplace laboratories, how data is managed in a scientific workplace and how organic compounds are made and tested industrially. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed via written reports and laboratory work. Unit 6: Investigative Project A practical based unit that enables students to gain an understanding and skills required to undertake an investigative project. 90 hours of study. Internally assessed: students complete a scientific literature review to produce a plan before carrying out their investigation and reporting their results and conclusions. Unit 16: Astronomy and Space Science A theory and practical-based unit covering the principles and present-day understanding of developments in astronomy. 60 hours of study. Internally assessed via a series of written reports on the principles of astronomy and the technology of space exploration, in addition to practical work observing day and night sky objects.