Exam Board: CCEA
This specification enables learners to:
- Develop knowledge and understanding of the material, physical and living worlds;
- Develop understanding of the nature of science and its applications and the interrelationships between science and society;
- Develop understanding of the relationships between hypotheses, evidence, theories and explanations;
- Develop and apply observational, practical, enquiry and problem-solving skills and understanding in laboratory, field and other learning environments;
- Develop ability to evaluate claims based on science through critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions; and
- Develop skills in communication, mathematics and the use of technology in scientific contexts.
The course is split up into the following units:
| Unit | Areas of study |
| Unit1: Biology | External written examinationFoundation and Higher Tiers: 1 hourStudents answer compulsory structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations. |
| Unit 2: Chemistry | External written examinationFoundation and Higher Tiers: 1 hourStudents answer compulsory structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations. |
| Unit 3: Physics | External written examinationFoundation and Higher Tiers: 1 hourStudents answer compulsory structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations. |
| Unit 4: Practical Skills | Booklet APractical skills assessmentFoundation and Higher Tiers: 2 hoursStudents carry out two pre-release practical tasks (from two of Biology, Chemistry and Physics) in the final year of study. Booklet BExternal written examinationFoundation Tier: 1 hour Higher Tier: 1 hour 15 minsStudents answer compulsory structured questions that include short responses, extended writing and calculations all set in a practical context for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. |
