Applied Science

The Cambridge Advanced National in Applied Science (AAQ) is a Level 3 qualification that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for higher education or careers in applied science. It covers fundamental scientific principles in biology, chemistry, and physics, emphasizing practical skills through laboratory investigations. The course is designed to be equivalent in size to one A Level and can be studied alongside A Levels

Students will cover the following

• Fundamentals of science - This unit is assessed by a 90 minute exam. You will learn about the key topics that are important in biology, chemistry and physics and you will study two key practical's for each of those components.

• Science in society - This unit is assessed by a 90 minute exam. You will learn about the skills scientists use and the roles they perform in an international scientific community. You will examine different types of scientific data and learn how scientists use them to draw conclusions that can contribute to scientific advancement

• Investigating science - This unit is assessed by an assignment. You will learn about the role of a research scientist in industry by learning how to conduct your own scientific investigation. You will be able to chose to focus on either biology, chemistry or physics for your investigation to ensure you can investigate an area you are interested in.

• Analytical techniques in chemistry - This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn how to plan and perform practical investigations to separate substances and purify them. You will be using equipment beyond the scope of that used at GCSE.

• Forensic Biology - This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn how to preserve and observe forensic evidence within a scene investigation. You will collect forensic evidence for analysing and learn similar techniques to forensics in real world investigations.

The course is assessed through a combination of externally assessed and internally assessed units. Two units will be assessed through a written exam, available twice a year in January and June, which is set and marked by the exam board. Course work makes up the remaining 3 units which will be heavily geared towards the practical and analytical aspect of science.

Min 44 in a GCSE Combined Science or 444 in separate science. Grade 4 in English and Maths.

Providing pathways to many careers, particularly in fields like science, healthcare, and education. It can lead to university degrees in areas like nursing, forensics, and various scientific disciplines.