Faculty: Science
Subject: OCR Level 3 Cambridge Extended Certificate in Applied Science
Subject Leader: Mrs H Duggins, Course Leader
Staff and Responsibility: Mrs C Packett, teacher
SUBJECT OVERVIEW
The Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Applied Science have been developed to meet the changing needs of the sector and prepare your students for the challenges they’ll face in Higher Education or employment. These qualifications have been designed in collaboration with experts spanning the breadth of the sector. They focus on the requirements that today’s universities, professional vocational colleges, and employer’s demand
Students will develop professional and practical skills through carrying out real experiments and research, working with local employers who can provide a workplace setting or national research projects that use volunteers to gather data, as well as theoretical knowledge and understanding to underpin these skills. This will allow them to practice lab techniques required in an industrial setting using equipment that may not be readily available in the classroom. Students will be made aware of safe working practices in a lab and the strict legal requirements they must adhere to.
COURSE CONTENT
The course is split in to five mandatory units taught over two years to achieve the Extended certificate. Students will develop skills throughout the course such as problem solving, revision and examination techniques, as well as enhance their research, report writing, practical and mathematical skills and referencing during the coursework aspects of the course. Students will also gain an understanding of the different types of scientific industries and settings plus how laboratory design can vary across organisations and sectors. When it comes to progression or employment, our students will understand the variety of opportunities available to them, and the roles and responsibilities of businesses and organisations within the sector.
| Coursework (20% each weighting over two year) |
Unit 6 – Control of hazards in the laboratory – Students develop the knowledge and understanding of the most common hazards encountered in typical research labs and will help students maintain a safe work environment. Students are assessed in their knowledge of COSHH, RIDDOR, Risk assessment and lab safety as well as designing laboratory which will show the students Understanding the legal requirements and recognizing hazards will help students to identify and minimize many of the common safety and health hazards associated with running a research laboratory
Unit 18 – Microbiology – Students develop the knowledge and understanding of microorganisms and how Microorganisms affect every aspect of life on Earth. From disease, to brewing alcohol, to use in GM Crops to issues such as antimicrobial resistance. This coursework unit explores all areas in which we encounter microorganisms and how we can safely use them to enhance our way of life.
Unit 21 – Product testing techniques – This unit students use all the skills and knowledge they have developed over the course and apply it to how products are made, tested and monitored for daily use. Students look at the life cycle assessment of a product (from raw materials to disposal), research government policies on product develop and use techniques such as titration or chromatography to analyse difference substances. This unit is a hands-on experience for students, developing their scientific skills in a real-life situation.
| Examination (20% each weighting over two year) |
Unit 1 – Science fundamentals – Two-hour exam which is completed in January of Year 13. Students expand their knowledge and understanding of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Building on their G.C.S.E knowledge. The knowledge learnt in this unit will create a solid foundation in the fundamentals of science that students will be able to build on in their further study through their choice of additional optional units, which will provide them with a greater depth of knowledge and practice in their chosen specialisms.
Unit 2 – Laboratory techniques -Two-hour examination which is completed in May of year 12. Students develop their skills and knowledge of basic laboratory techniques which are expected in standard laboratory careers, including NHS and technician roles. Students have to demonstrate that they understand the importance of health and safety in the laboratory and know how to carry out and record the outcomes of standard laboratory procedures
MATERIALS NEEDED
You will be expected to participate in practical work including presentations and work experience visits. Students are provided with workbooks for the exam unit and folders for the coursework unts. Students are expected to present work in a sensible and timely manner as deadlines are set for moderation. Students are presented with laboratory coats and goggles in year 13
EXTENDED LEARNING
Extended learning regularly is set. It will test and extend class work activities. It will include a range of different tasks including, research, revision, and completion of written coursework. Students are expected to complete coursework during their own directed study time in addition to lesson time. We expect all students to stick to deadlines for coursework completion and moderation.
POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS
Applied Science level 3 can be the steppingstone to apprenticeships, vocational degrees, or foundation degree level at most universities.
Potential careers include Apprenticeships in NHS careers such as nursing, midwifery, medicine, and dentistry. Vocational courses in animal agriculture, or environmental science. Paramedic, marine biologist, climate change analyst or even a nutritionist.
