Science for KS4 Presentation by Princes Risborough Science Department
PRS students The vast majority perform better when they are continuously assessed rather than when they are examined
BTEC APPLIED SCIENCE NO EXAMS! STUDENTS BECOME INDEPENDENT LEARNERS
Why change now? New GCSE exams - more difficult for most of our students, due to method of examining More local schools are now following BTEC courses and student results are improving rapidly there More schools nationally are adopting BTEC courses
What is BTEC? BTEC s are work related qualifications suitable for a range of students and have been in place for over 25 years. They provide a practical, real-world approach to learning. They are recognised nationally by educational establishments, employers and professional bodies.
Why do BTEC Applied Science? (2) A BTEC in Applied science allows students to focus their own knowledge, skills and enthusiasm to a course which shows ongoing progress and where hard work is rewarded during the course, allowing for the motivation of students to analyses and improve their own performance.
Why do BTEC Applied Science? (3) A practical approach to study - presenting evidence based on real-life life work. No exam pressure some students thrive on exams but others fail to achieve potential due to stress and worry. Progress is measured throughout the course and remain motivated and engaged as they plot their progress.
Why do BTEC Applied Science? (4) Keep your options open there are many choices to make post-16 and the flexibility of BTEC s makes them a good choice. Inspiring confidence Students build confidence as they develop practical skills and are able to present evidence in different forms. Rewarding effort Students are set strict deadlines for an assignment and progress is monitored by the teacher helping students reach their potential.
Why do BTEC Applied Science? (5) Working together Teamwork is an important aspect of the world of work. Students work individually and in groups to build on skills. Equivalences and Progression - as BTECs are equivalent to GCSE s s and students can go onto A-levels A and careers.
How does it work? BTEC Applied Science is offered at KS4 here at PRS at the following levels: BTEC First Qualifications (Level 2) equivalent to traditional GCSE s s grade A* - C * BTEC Certificate is equivalent to 1 GCSE * BTEC Extended Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSE s * Possibility of BTEC Diploma which is equivalent to 4 GCSE s
BTEC Qualifications and Credits * BTEC Certificate is equivalent to 1 GCSE and requires 15 Credits * BTEC Extended Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSE s s and requires 30 credits * Possibility of BTEC Diploma which is equivalent to 4 GCSE s s and requires 60 credits
BTEC Applied Science Content - Certificate Chemistry to cover (5 credits): : Chemical C classification, Safe use of chemicals within work setting, Industrial use of chemistry, How natural factors and chemical reactions have changed the Earth Physics to cover (5 Credits): : The T types energy sources, How energy be transformed?, How can we ensure efficient use of energy? Biology to cover (5 Credits): : The T variety of living organisms on Earth, Interaction of different organisms, Plant and animal cell structure and function, Role of DNA Biological factors may affect human health, How body systems respond to internal and external environmental changes.
BTEC Applied Science Assessment Students complete realistic work- based assignments throughout the course which are internally assessed by members of the science department. Edexcel regularly checks assessment marking and there are quality assurance procedures in the school
How will it work? Deadlines must be kept to. Monday and Wednesday from 3 to 4pm will be for students to get extra help from science teachers. It will be compulsory to attend if you fail to meet deadlines You can also attend if you just need any help to complete the work
Assessment You complete the work by writing or by word-processing. If it is word- processed then you will need to print off the work. When you hand the work in it should be kept together with a paper clip, not in a plastic wallet
Assessment Each time you hand in a task, your teacher will mark it and return it to you with some suggestions for improvement. You will then have 2 or 3 days to finally complete the work.
Assessment After your teacher has marked the work, some of the assignments will be sent off to the exam board for checking. Your grade will then be confirmed.