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Churchill Academy & Sixth Form

Applied Science

Our Cambridge Technical in Applied Science enables students to gain practical laboratory skills and theoretical scientific understanding in a workplace setting. Students further develop their knowledge and skills by exploring one of three vocational pathways: environmental, human or food science.

 

 

Course Information

Course Name:

OCR Level 3 AAQ Cambridge Advanced National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) 

Or

Cambridge Technical in Applied Science (CTEC)

(We are awaiting the outcome of the government’s review into this curriculum change, and will offer the qualification that is approved. The results are expected in December)

Course Type: 

Level 3 Cambridge Advanced National (Aaq) In Applied Science

Examination/Coursework:

Two mandatory externally assessed units: 

  • Unit F180 Fundamentals of science 
  • Unit F181 Science in society 

One mandatory internally assessed and externally moderated NEA: 

  • Unit F182 Investigating science 

Two optional internally assessed and externally moderated NEA units from a choice of four: 

  • Unit F183 Analytical techniques in chemistry 
  • Unit F184 Environmental studies 
  • Unit F185 Forensic biology 
  • Unit F186 Medical physics 
Exam Board:

OCR

Entrance Criteria:

Science – 55

Maths – 4

English – 4 

Topics & Areas Covered:

F180 – Fundamentals of Science 

  • Topic Area B1 - Cell structure and microscopy 
  • Topic Area B2 – Bioenergetics 
  • Topic Area B3 – Structure and Function of Biological Molecules
  • Topic Area B4 – Biodiversity and Ecosystems 
  • Topic Area C1 – Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table 
  • Topic Area C2 – Quantitative Chemistry 
  • Topic Area C3 – Structure and Bonding 
  • Topic Area C4 – Rates of Reaction and enthalpy changes 
  • Topic Area P1 – Electricity 
  • Topic Area P2 – Motion
  • Topic Area P3 – Medical Physics 

F181 – Science in Society 

In this unit, you will learn about the skills scientists use and the roles they perform in an international scientific community. You will examine different types of scientific data and learn how scientists use them to draw conclusions that can contribute to scientific advancement.

Topics include: 

  • Topic Area 1: What scientists do 
  • Topic Area 2: Handling scientific data
  • Topic Area 3: Scientific developments 
  • Topic Area 4: Communicating science

F182 - Investigating Science 

This unit is assessed by an assignment 

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 practical tasks. 

Topics include:

  • Planning a scientific investigation 

  • Performing a scientific investigation

  • Analysing and communicating results 

  • Evaluating a scientific investigation 

Career Pathways:

 

Applied Science Level 3 can be the stepping stone to apprenticeships, vocational degrees, or foundation degree level at most universities. Potential careers include Apprenticeships in NHS careers such as nursing, midwifery, microbiology, medicine, and dentistry. Vocational courses in animal agriculture or environmental science. Paramedic, Pharmacology, marine biologist, climate change analyst or even a nutritionist.

Additional Information:

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.

Website information for A-Level subjects: 

https://ocr.org.uk/Images/697579-specification-cambridge-advanced-national-in-applied-science.pdf

AS/A-Level:

This course can be studied as a one-year course.