CTEC Level 3 Applied Science (double)
COURSE OVERVIEW
The level 3 applied science course includes biology, chemistry, and physics and is assessed via a mixture of exams and coursework. It is designed to enable students to gain the practical laboratory skills and theoretical scientific understanding required for employment in the exciting and varied world of science and to support progression onto a variety of higher education courses.
EXAMINATION BOARD: ocr
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 4 in GCSE Maths and grade 5 in a GCSE science subject.
Why study CTEC Level 3 Applied Science (double) at Blackpool Sixth?
Delivered by a team of teachers and technicians with specialist knowledge applicable to the wide variety of units on this course from Microbiology to Environmental Surveying. You will take part in fieldwork and go on visits linked with local employers. There are enrichment opportunities linked to this course, including Science Club and university visits.
How will I be taught?
You will have lessons where important content is delivered during which you will be asked to complete tasks in order to help you learn and assess your understanding. You will also have lessons to start coursework which will be completed at home.
Teacher expertise
A team of experienced teachers and technicians. Between us, we have a wide range of specialisms, including biology, chemistry, marine biology, psychology, and microbiology, and also experience as examiners.
What skills will I develop?
Apart from applied science sector-specific content, the requirements of the qualification will mean students develop transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by both HE and employers. For example, carrying out practical laboratory tasks, planning investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data, and reviewing and refining the methodology of practical and laboratory-based work.
You will also develop other transferable skills such as:
- Working as part of a team – this is used extensively in science since many heads are better than one. Larger tasks can be split into smaller tasks mirroring the way you would work in industry.
- Problem solving – you will be set several tasks that require you to analyse the question and find out what you need to do, and who you need to consult in order to solve the problem.
- Research skills – you will be expected to research a wide variety of sources including the internet, books, and scientific journal articles.
- Organisational skills – a key part of BTEC studies is meeting deadlines and organising your work – as would be expected when working in the sector.
- IT skills – it is crucial that you are able to use IT skills to complete and organise your work. You will be supported and helped throughout your course to develop these skills.
How will I be assessed?
42
%- 42% External assessment via 3 exams
58
%- 58% Internal assessment submitted via assignments with set deadlines throughout the course.
What will you study and other information about CTEC Applied Science (double)
- What will I study?
- Science fundamentals
- Laboratory techniques
- Scientific analysis and reporting
- Human physiology
- Genetics
- Control of hazards in a laboratory
- Human nutrition
- Cell Biology
- Microbiology
- Testing consumer products
- Equipment and Financial contributions
The science department runs several trips and educational visits throughout the year to enhance the experience of studying science. There may be other non-essential educational visits that students can access during the two-year course, such as visits to zoos and museums.
Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the Casio fx-85G, approximately £8 – £10 (if studying maths or further maths, the upgraded calculator you buy for these courses will be suitable). Students also need a 30cm clear ruler and a protractor.
Essential resources and sources of information for this course will be provided to you by your teachers. It is not a requirement to purchase a textbook.
- Field trips, projects, and employability opportunities
Science club and medical society are the 6Advance and 6Xtra opportunities available in the Science Academy. Students have the opportunity to visit universities to experience relevant higher education courses.
Where does it lead?
There is a wide range of opportunities including degree courses, apprenticeships, and careers that this qualification would support students in accessing.
