21st Century Science

Additional Applied Science

The nature of GCSE Additional Applied Science

GCSE Additional Applied Science extends the scientific explanations and procedural understanding in GCSE Science. It does this in particular contexts, enabling students to progress post-16 in areas of applied science and related subjects.

The course has the following features:
1 A cluster of related contexts in which people apply science in their work – but with freedom to adapt to local circumstances

2 Authentic procedures and techniques (adapted as necessary for school laboratories) – 'where the results matter'

3 Underpinning knowledge, including some big ideas of potential value for progression and concepts of valid measurement

4 The framework within which people apply science
• organisations
• employers
• regulators including health and safety
• social context including values

5 Applying knowledge and techniques to solve a practical problem

The nature of the assessment for the course follows from these features.

GCSE Additional Applied Science offers the full range of grades. It provides a ladder of progression to high achievement. Some students will find this course more accessible than the GCSE Additional Science course, because there are 'starting rungs' which are easier to step onto, and which are rewarding to climb because of their authenticity.

In any scenario, an applied module offers the perspective of the practitioner, whereas a GCSE Science module presents a view of the world from the perspective of a member of the public. In a health centre, for example, an Applied Science module investigates the work of a care worker (nurse, doctor, physiotherapist) while any related Science topics explore the interests of the patient.

The Applied Science videos which are on the Applied Science iPack CD-ROM in the OUP course materials will be very useful here.

Flexibility

Students are required to complete three modules, each occupying about 45 hours teaching time. The following modules are offered.

A1 Life care
A2 Agriculture and food
A3 Scientific detection
A4 Harnessing chemicals
A5 Communications
A6 Materials and performance

It is important that an applied science course offers flexibility so that schools can
• choose appropriate modules and tailor them to local workplaces and employment opportunities
• exploit the strengths of specialist teaching staff, especially those with prior vocational experience
• appeal to particular interests of the students
• find an appropriate balance between teacher-led learning and independent learning by students, and perhaps shift it as the course progresses
• adapt standard procedures and techniques to apparatus available in school

For more information see the specification on the OCR website.

See also
Aspects of applied science
Assessment framework
Work-related portfolio