BTEC Extended Certificate in Science

Content

Why do BTEC? UCAS awards equal tariff points to Level 3 BTEC and A Levels in all sectors. Therefore a Distinction* is worth 56 UCAS points, the same as an A* at A Level. The course is accepted as entry requirements for University courses, such as Genetics, Nutrition, Applied Biology, Pharmacology, Biological Sciences, Radiology, and Chiropody.

It’s a largely vocational qualification which gives you a broad grasp of the three main scientific disciplines (biology, chemistry and physics) designed to help you develop the skills and techniques needed to be employed. The course is part internally assessed assignments and part examined at the end of years 12 and 13

Course Structure

Year 1:

Unit 1- Principles and Applications of Science I. This externally examined unit covers a range of knowledge across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Topics include atomic structure and bonding, Chemical calculations, Cell structure and function, muscular and Nervous systems and the properties and uses of Electromagnetic waves, sound waves and light waves. Assessment for this unit is by a written exam at the end of year 12.

Unit 2- Practical scientific procedures and techniques. This internally assed unit covers a range of standard Titrations, Calorimetry, Chromatography and Colorimetry. Learners will be assessed in this unit on their Laboratory Skills and data handling.

Year 2:

Unit 3- Scientific Investigation Skills. This unit will build on and further develop learners scientific skills in arrange of techniques and include investigations into enzyme activity, and studying a range of electrical circuits and components. This unit is assessed externally through written questions based around practical work the learners have undertaken.

Unit 4 - is an internally assessed unit chosen from a range of options such as Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Physiology of Human Body Systems, Electrical Circuits and their Application.

Method of Assessment

The course is 60% externally examined and 40% internally assessed.

Assessments may include: Written work in the form of a power point presentation or word document; booklets or laboratory diaries; observations and video evidenced material.

Prior knowledge/attainmentAs well as the normal matriculation requirements to study at A level

We normally expect level 5’s or above in GCSE Science