BTEC National in Applied Science Level 3 (Extended Certificate ) (AAQ)

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) enables students to study the principles and applications of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as practical scientific procedures and techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their investigation skills. There are three examined units and two internally assessed units where students will engage in practical tasks to develop their scientific skills and knowledge. The qualification is designed to be taken alongside other subjects such as A Level Psychology and A Level Sociology. The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate) is intended for students that wish to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment.

The course involves a combination of internally and externally assessed components. The qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education representatives and sector experts from associated professional bodies to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to progress to, and thrive, in higher education.

The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:

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

• 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

• Principles and Applications of Physics – Waves and their applications; force principles and their application in transportation and construction of electrical circuits

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

Students have a choice from two optional units covering the following topics:

• Scientific Investigation Skills – Investigative research, including planning, data collection, analysis and evaluation.

• Contemporary Issues in Science – Contemporary scientific issues including the reliability of sources of scientific information and their associated validity.

Students will develop the following knowledge and skills from the mandatory units:

• Fundamental scientific principles and applied knowledge relating to biology, chemistry and physics • Laboratory techniques, including health and safety assessment, and associated professional practice

• Problem solving. Students will develop the following knowledge and skills from the optional units: • Scientific Research skills including researching and planning methodologies, primary data collection and analysis, drawing justified conclusions.

• Secondary research skills including collecting information from a range of sources, its evaluation and interpretation, and its use to draw reasoned conclusions.

• Transferable skills such as critical thinking, taking personal responsibility and written communications. Students develop the ability to practically apply scientific concepts, which is beneficial to the analytical approach of related degrees. Critical thinking and independent learning help students 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.

A combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed exams. For each unit a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade can be achieved. 50% of the total qualification is made up of external assessment – 3 x 1-hour exams based on Chemistry, Biology and Physics. There are 5 units in total across the 2 years with 3 being assessed externally and 2 assessed internally.

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Biology – External Assessment

This unit explores the key components of biological science. It will examine cells and tissues, their varied structures and functions and the biological components that interact with their existence. The unit will be assessed through one examination of 50 marks lasting 1 hour. The paper will include a range of question types, including multiple choice, calculations, short answer and extended open response. These question types will assess knowledge and understanding of the content in this unit. Students will need to explore and relate to contexts and data presented.

Unit 2: Principles and Applications of Chemistry – External Assessment

Students will explore some of the fundamental concepts which underpin the chemistry and chemical reactions of the world around them. The unit will be assessed through one examination of 50 marks lasting 1 hour. The paper will include a range of question types, including multiple choice, calculations, short answer and extended open response. These question types will assess knowledge and understanding of the content in this unit. Students will need to explore and relate to contexts and data presented.

Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics – External Assessment

Students will explore the use of practical and mathematical skills in the study of waves, motion and electricity. The unit will be assessed through one examination of 50 marks lasting 1 hour. The paper will include a range of question types, including multiple choice, calculations, short answer and extended open response. These question types will assess knowledge and understanding of the content in this unit. Students will need to explore and relate to contexts and data presented.

Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – Internal Assessment

The unit will be assessed by four assignments internally marked including practical based procedures and techniques. Students will be introduced to quantitative laboratory techniques, including chromatography, colorimetry and laboratory safety, which are relevant to the scientific laboratory environments.

Option 1

Unit 5: Science Investigation Skills – Internal Assessment

The unit will be assessed by four assignments internally marked. This unit enables students to gain an understanding and the skills required to undertake an investigative project. In this unit, you will carry out an individual investigative project that you have chosen. Completing an investigative project is an excellent way for you to develop independent learning skills, primary and secondary research skills, along with communication and critical thinking skills to facilitate an understanding of the science-related workplace. The skills developed in this unit will be of considerable benefit for progression to higher education in a variety of science and science-related courses and to employment in the science or applied science sector.

Option 2

Unit 6: Contemporary Issues in Science – Internal Assessment

The unit will be assessed by three assignments internally marked. This unit will explore contemporary science issues and their impact on the world we live in. It will develop the students’ skills of analysis and interpretation across a broad range of scientific issues while exploring how they are reported in the media and in publications. Students will develop critical thinking skills and be able to analyse various articles that convey scientific information and be able to evaluate the effects of misinformation and disinformation spread via social media. Students will understand the importance of validity and reliability when reporting scientific information and how it can influence the accuracy of information that’s needed in contemporary science. Students will also write articles on scientific issues that are suitable for a general audience and for a professional audience.

. You will need a grade 5 in Science or a Merit grade at BTEC Science Level 2. You will also require at least a grade 5 in Maths and English Language or Literature. Students will need to be enthusiastic and have a keen interest in the applications of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. You must have good time management, organisation and an ability to work independently in order to succeed on this course.

This qualification will support students progress to a wide variety of higher education courses. It is equivalent to 1 A level in size. It is suitable for students looking to develop their applied science knowledge and skills as part of a study programme alongside two other level 3 qualifications, such as physical education and sport, sociology, and psychology. Leading to degrees within Applied Sport and Exercise Sciences, Nursing, Secondary Science Education to name just a few.