Level 3 BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate)

Board: Pearson

You need a minimum of 5 GCSEs with 2 x grade 5 in GCSE Science [either Combined Science (Trilogy) or Triple Science] and a grade 5 in Maths GCSE.

The qualification is equivalent to one A level and will allow you to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to progress to, and thrive, in higher education. You will develop the ability to practically apply scientific concepts, which is beneficial to the analytical approach of related degrees. Critical thinking and independent learning help you to be better prepared for the self-directed learning approach used in higher education and become more open-minded to learning. Research and extended writing skills with the other skills, creates a good foundation for academic success.

Unit 1:  Principles and Applications of Biology – Structure and function of cells and tissues, biological molecules, enzymes and their role in organisms

Unit 2:  Principles and Applications of Chemistry – Structure of the Periodic Table and its implications on physical and chemical properties of substances, through analysis of different bonding methods

Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics – Waves and their applications; force principles and their application in transportation and construction of electrical circuits.

Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – Practical applications across the sciences, including chromatography, colorimetry and electrical circuits.

Unit 5: Scientific Investigation Skills – Investigative research, including planning, data collection, analysis and evaluation.

There are three externally examined units and two internally assessed units where you will engage in practical tasks to develop your scientific skills and knowledge.

Unit 1, 2 and 3 - External examinations (1 hour, 50 marks) set and marked by Pearson. Examinations take place in January and May/June.

Unit 4 and 5 are assessed through the Pearson Set Assignment Brief (PSAB) and is subject to external standards verification after being marked internally.

This qualification can lead to progression to the following degrees: • BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences • BSc (Hons) Nursing • BSc (Hons) Secondary Science Education.  BTEC Nationals have equivalent UCAS points and the course is designed to taken alongside other A Level and/or BTEC subjects.  The topics studied also lead to other employment avenues eg Scientists and technicians in the food industry need to understand the structure and function of plant cells to enable them to develop food crops.  Development of energy alternatives and improving sustainability, laboratory assistants in medical, dental or general quality control careers will also benefit from studying Applied Science so many apprenticeships could be available for further advancement.

For more information about the course, please see Mr Chandler, Mrs Cooper or Mrs Sutliff