Extended Certificate in Applied Science Btec Level 3   

Qualifications 

Exam board: Edexcel (Pearson) 

Btec Level 3 

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-nationals/applied-science-2016.html   

Entry Requirements 

GCSE Grade 5+ in sciences and 4+ in Maths

Skills required 

Suitable for students with an interest in science or a science related career path who have a good level or prior experience and skill in science-based subjects. You will need to use your practical skills and develop skills in research and problem solving. 

About the course 

Young people taking their first step into a new career need the right blend of technical and academic skills to support them and we know that employers and Higher Education are looking for highly skilled, job-ready individuals with a strong work ethic. That’s why we offer the new BTEC Nationals in collaboration with over 5,000 universities, employers and professional bodies with employability at the heart, so you, the learners, can develop the skills and confidence you will need to step into a prosperous future. 

Student testimony 

“This course has given me a more in-depth knowledge of a range of scientific topics, including human anatomy which will really help with the course in nursing I want to do after sixth form.”  

Year 13 Student 

“It’s a really great subject and makes it possible for you to have a go at all the sciences, not focus on one. The teachers are helpful and assist in any way they can.” 

Year 12 Student 

Career paths 

Designed for learners who are interested in learning about the sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, completion of the course will enable you to pursue a career as a science technician in a laboratory or progress to a higher education qualification such as an HNC, HND or university degree and go on to a career in nursing, radiography, pharmacy, chemical engineering, biochemistry, veterinary science or forensics. 

Course outline/assessment 

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science 

Topic areas: animal and plant cells; tissues; atomic structure and bonding; chemical and physical properties of substances related to their uses; waves and their application in communications. 

Two hour written exam worth 90 marks set and marked by Pearson.  

Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques 

Topic Areas: standard laboratory equipment and techniques, including titration, colorimetry, calorimetry, chromatography, calibration procedures and laboratory safety.  

Four assignments, set and marked by teachers. 

Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills 

Learners will cover the stages involved and the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation: how to record, interpret, draw scientific conclusions and evaluate. 

Written task (Part B) worth 60 marks set and marked by Pearson. 

Unit 4: Diseases and Infection 

Learners will gain understanding of five types of diseases, their causes and how humans try to prevent and treat them. 

Four assignments, set and marked by teachers.