Examining Board - OCR

Subject Content

This course suits those who have an interest in Science but do not specifically require the seperate sciences at Advanced Level for their further studies. However it could be used to enhance the scientific background of those studying a seperate science at Advanced Level. Students who are good at science but struggle to retain information for examinations will benefit from this subject which is two-thirds portfolio (coursework) ba.

Methods of Study

The specification builds upon a vocational framework, meaning that it provides a scientific knowledge and practical skills which are relevant and useful to future employers. It is designed to allow students flexible progression routes, moving on to higher education or further training and/or employment.

Methods of Assessment

AS Level

Unit 1: Investigating Science at Work

You will produce a portfolio of evidence which is assesed by the college. The portfolio should reflect approximately 60 hours of work including teaching time, individual research and analysis together with the time required to produce the portfolio. The big project for this section is based around a research trip to Chester Zoo.

• 33.3% AS
• 16.7% A Level

Unit 2: Energy Transfer Systems

This is an externally examined paper which consists of short answer, structured questions. The content is partly Biology based relationg to how energy is transferred in the body, with some Physics based questions and calculations on energy transfers.

• 33.3% AS
• 16.7% A Level

Unit 3: Finding Out About Substances

This unit asseses practical skills, including planning and carrying out experiments and evaluating results. You will be required to produce a Portfolio of Evidence as in Unit 1.

• 33.3% AS
• 16.7% A Level

A2 Level:

As with AS level, two-thirds of the evidence of your work is collected as a portfolio. 

Unit 7: (Compulsory) Planning & Carrying Out a Scientific Experiment

PLUS

Two other optional units, one of which will end with an externally assesed exam.

Entry Requirements

Minimum of one C Grade GCSE in Science (preferably Additional Science) OR a Merit in OCR Science.