Study at PSC

This course is split into five units across two years:

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Biology
Science professionals need to understand the structure and workings of cells. They build on this knowledge to understand how the body stays healthy as well as the symptoms and causes of some diseases. This unit explores the key components of biological science and topics covered include: animal and plant cells and tissues, including specialised cells; biological molecules, including water, carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acid; cell transport; enzymes activity. 

Unit 2: Principles and Applications of Chemistry
Chemistry is not just a subject; it influences many aspects of other sciences. Everything you see, everything you do, everywhere you go, you are surrounded by chemistry and the chemical reactions that are needed for it. In this unit, we will re-examine basic chemistry (the periodic table, atomic and electronic structure, bonding and structure) with more advanced concepts such as ionisation energy, electronegativity, polarity, molecular shape and intermolecular forces. You will learn about the main branches of physical chemistry and consider the impact of green chemistry in the chemical industry. You will also learn the basics of organic chemistry, the reactions of different types of organic compound, and the benefits or problems that organic chemistry can provide.

Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics
This unit will explore the role physics has on our everyday tasks by studying waves, motion and electricity. If you’ve ever considered how the mechanics of a car, your mobile phone or how circuitry work, you won’t be surprised that physics plays a huge part in their action. For example, you will learn how electromagnetic waves are the basis for our modern communication systems and gain an insight into how wifi and bluetooth work and the activities they perform. You will also examine the laws of motion and the role physics has on our work with electrical circuits. By using physics, it is possible to understand how we can create energy alternatives that can help us develop greater sustainability in our future environment.  

Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
This unit introduces you to standard laboratory equipment and techniques. Through practical tasks, you will develop proficiency in the quantitative analytical techniques, including learning to calculate the concentration of solutions. You will use measurement of temperature to study cooling curves and be introduced to paper and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). You will also have the opportunity to calibrate equipment and will be encouraged to be aware of the safety aspects of given laboratory procedures and techniques. While you develop your practical skills, the discussion and analysis of group results will allow you to gain an understanding of the reliability, repeatability and reproducibility of various procedures and techniques. 

Unit 5: Scientific Investigation Skills
In this unit, you will carry out an investigative project that you have chosen in collaboration with your teacher. You will consider the project’s aims and objectives and formulate a suitable hypothesis that you can test by using practical work. You will then produce a realistic plan and submit it for the first assessment and feedback. Once you have approval to continue, over the course of several weeks you will carry out the project safely using your scientific investigation skills, project management skills and what you have learnt from the other units. Finally, you will prepare an evaluative report that will consider the project outcomes and suggest amendments that may have improved those outcomes.

This course uses a variety of approaches and resources. You will also be expected to work independently and use online resources. In each year of the course, you will learn scientific investigation skills and techniques. There is practical work throughout the course to help students develop skills and embed understanding of concepts.

Units 1, 2 and 3 are all externally examined. Each unit will have a one-hour exam with 50 marks available. The paper will include a range of question types, including multiple choice, calculations, short answer and extended open response. 

Units 4 and 5 are assessed through coursework which will be completed in class. 

Designed for students with an interest in science and aiming to progress to higher education. This qualification can lead to studying for a wide range of degree courses such as Applied Science, Chemistry with Analytical Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Forensic Science, Biomedical Science, Nursing, Radiography or Sports Science; or pursuing a career such as a being a laboratory science technician in industry.

Students are expected to purchase a hardcopy of the textbook resources for the course. There may also be a small cost to cover printing and other course requirements. The College has a Student Support Fund for students needing help in meeting these costs.