Applied Science

Level 3 AAQ Extended Certificate in Applied Science (OCR)

Science is a subject that affects all aspects of our lives. For example, by advancing knowledge in stem cell research, leading to the development of new treatments for serious illnesses. Despite this, the media perception of science is not always positive, and is often down to a lack of understanding of the science being discussed. Scientific advances often raise moral and ethical issues – is it right for the NHS to pay for a very costly lifesaving drug to treat cancer when cuts are being made in other areas? What issues are raised by the potential of three parent babies? Science often asks more questions than it answers, and this course will equip you with the knowledge and the skills to make your own judgements on scientific issues.

This Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification will provide you with a theoretical knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of science, preparing you for progression to undergraduate study. It covers core topics of biology, physics and chemistry and will leave you equipped with relevant industry sought skills through researching, planning and performing a range of different laboratory investigations.

Course Content & Assessment

Year 12

Unit 1: Fundamentals of Science (F180)

20% of Extended Certificate

An understanding of Applied Science is exciting and challenging and essential to appreciate how the world works. Chemicals are in the food we eat, the medicines we take, the clothes we wear and the fuels we use. In addition, a greater insight into biological processes from individual cells to

organisms, metabolic reactions and the way we interact with other living things is fascinating. We are also dependent on the physical forces around us and on the energy we harvest and use, whilst seeking to understand more about the world around us.

This unit is assessed by an exam. The exam will include questions based on the three sciences, with a mixture of MCQs, short and longer extended questions.

Unit 2: Investigating Science (F182)

20% of Extended Certificate

Scientific research and investigation happen continuously. Scientific investigation is a series of steps of research that scientists take to solve problems by asking questions and testing possible answers. Research scientists conduct scientific investigations to test out new ideas, find explanations, build knowledge, and develop new technologies. In this unit you will learn about the role of a research scientist in industry by learning how to conduct your own scientific investigation. You will develop the skills to research, plan and risk assess your investigation before safely undertaking the practical tasks.

This unit is assessed through coursework.

Year 13

Unit 3: Science in society (F181)

20% of Extended Certificate

Science has transformed the world we live in and brought about many benefits to society, raising living standards and improving peoples’ health and life expectancy. Scientific knowledge enables new technologies to be developed, practical problems to be solved and informed decisions to be made. The challenges facing modern society, such as the emergence of new diseases, climate change and sustainability of natural resources, are being addressed by scientists across the world. This unit explores the work of scientists to collect, analyse and present data, using a process called the Scientific Method, to increase knowledge and address these challenges. Communication in science helps inform, educate, and raise awareness of science-related topics within society, inspiring future scientists like you so that scientific technologies continue to progress.

This unit is assessed by an exam which is based on pre-release material studied 6 weeks prior.

Unit 4: Analytical techniques in chemistry (F183)

20% of Extended Certificate

Science is ever evolving. Improving our understanding of substances and how they are composed and interact is key to driving innovation in areas such as chemical sciences, forensic science, biochemical science and environmental science. This unit explores how to identify chemical substances and determine quantities present by using a wide range of techniques to separate and analyse the composition. The knowledge and skills developed will give you a solid basis for further progression in a range of scientific fields.

This unit is assessed through coursework.

Unit 5: Forensic biology (F185) OR Medical physics (F186)

20% of Extended Certificate

This unit cover the roles of forensic biology and medical imaging in investigations and healthcare. It examines how forensic biologists collect and analyse biological evidence for legal cases, as well as exploring various imaging techniques and therapies used in medical diagnosis and treatment.

This unit is assessed through coursework

Teaching

The examined units will involve a mixture of taught material and independent research. Preparation for unit 3 will involve in depth discussions centred around topical news items and the issues that arise from these developments. The practical work in unit 2 closely follows the examined work in unit 1 with an emphasis on interpreting data and drawing conclusions. Units 4 and 5 in year 13 will follow large extended projects, where an emphasis will be on time management and organisation.

Your Future

The Applied Science qualification is useful where a broad scientific knowledge is required. This qualification is supported by a range of universities, and when taken alongside other qualifications, can fulfil the entry requirements for several science-related higher education courses. These include physiotherapy, forensic, biomedical, and sports science, and is particularly relevant to those wishing to undertake a vocational course such as nursing.