GCSE Science
- Online
- Aberystwyth Campus
- Graig Campus
This GCSE Science course gives a broad overview of science and the role of the scientific community in our society. Students learn about how scientists validate their knowledge of the world, and investigate how science impacts on society.
It is an essential part of education at level 2 and prepares students for all areas of further education and covers the compulsory National Curriculum Programme of Study for Science in England and Wales.
Lessons are online but assessments are carried out at Aberystwyth or Graig Campus.
Course details
- Part time
What you will learn
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Programme features
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Progression and employment
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Method of assessment
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Entry requirements
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Additional costs
The course prepares students for WJEC Applied Science (Single Award) giving a single GCSE in Science.
Students study areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics through different topics, such as generating and using electricity, electrical circuits, the solar system and universe, producing compounds in a laboratory, nutrient cycling in the environment, vaccination, medical imaging techniques, exercise and fitness, and chemical/nuclear reactions. There is also an emphasis on practical skills through designing and carrying out investigations, analysing data and assessing health and safety.
The course is taught in English. There is support for Welsh Speaking students. There are some resources available in Welsh. This can all be discussed at the beginning of the year or by email to the tutor.
The WJEC Applied Science (Single Award) is accepted for Access to HE course and A-level courses (dependent on grade and subject applied for). In higher education the course is accepted on nursing, midwifery and most other degree courses (alongside other qualifications).
There are 4 formal assessments over the year (these dates will be fixed but dates and times are not available until the Autumn term). All assessments are in-person on Aberystwyth campus.
- Unit 1: Written assessment (1.5 hr) in June, worth 40% of the final mark.
- Unit 2: Written assessment (1.5 hr) in May, worth 30% of the final mark.
- Unit 3: Task based assessment (4 hrs), in Nov/Dec during two of the Thursday evening lessons, worth 20% of the final mark.
- Unit 4: Practical assessment (2 hrs), in Jan/Feb during one of the Thursday evening lessons, worth 10% of the final mark.
Units 1, 2 and 3 are tiered (higher and foundation); Unit 4 is untiered. Students may choose their assessment tier, but all assessments should be taken in the same tier. The higher tier accesses marks from A* – D; the foundation tier accesses marks from C – G, where A* is the highest possible mark.
No formal requirements but a background in secondary school science is desirable.
Learners under 19 years of age, or part of a full-time course in the college are required to pay an administration fee of £25 prior to enrolment.
All other learners are required to pay the GCSE course fee of £163 prior to enrolment.
As all of the lessons are taught online, access to a PC, laptop or tablet and a reliable internet connection are essential.
Access to notetaking materials and a calculator are suggested for lesson times. Writing materials and calculators will be provided for assessments.