The OCR Level 2 Nationals in Science have been developed to recognise learners’ skills, knowledge and understanding of Science, scientific procedures and the commercial applications of Science. The OCR Nationals help students develop their personal skills in areas applicable to any workplace, such as team working, communication and problem solving.

The pupils carry out a range of tasks that have been designed to recognise their achievements in a modern, practical way that is relevant to the workplace.

SPECIFICATION AIMS:

These qualifications specifically aim to:

• develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of the Science sector
• develop pupils’ skills, knowledge and understanding in contexts that are directly relevant to employment situations, thereby enhancing their employability within the science sector
• develop pupils’ ability to work autonomously and effectively in a Science context
• enable pupils to develop knowledge and understanding in specialist areas of Science, and demonstrate the skills needed to participate in the operation and development of real Science organisations
• encourage progression by assisting in the development of skills, knowledge and understanding that pupils will need to access further or higher education programmes or occupational training on a full-time or part-time basis
• promote interaction between employers, centres and pupils by relating teaching and assessment to real organisations

THE COURSE:

The OCR National Award in Science comprises three mandatory units and three units chosen by the department.

ASSESSMENT:

All units are centre-assessed and externally moderated. There are no external tests. The pupils will be assessed on their performance for each unit and they will be required to develop a portfolio for each unit. Pupils will be continuously assessed throughout the two years.

CERTIFICATION:

All units are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction
The full qualification is equivalent to 4 GCSEs grades A*-C.

As the certificate is 100% portfolio work, the traditional 'A' Level science courses are not accessible through this route.

FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE COURSE:

There is a comprehensive and helpful website specifically for the OCR National course including suitability and sample materials:

www.ocrnationals.com

HOME LEARNING:

Home learning is set to all classes twice a week taking about one hour on each occasion. This will include activities to reinforce learning, research involving books and the internet, preparing talks, reviewing and developing portfolio work.

EDUCATION EXTRA, SUPPORT AND TRIPS:

Workshops to aid with the completion of portfolio work will be held at times throughout the two years of study. There will be some opportunities to approach learning outside the confines of the classroom such as links to BP, visiting speakers, work with pupils from other schools and we would like to develop international exchanges of work to broaden perspectives.

HOW PARENTS CAN HELP:

• One suggestion is for the family to watch some interesting Science programmes on the television, including the news and discuss the importance of Science in our lives
• Encourage pupils to visit the library to find material such as scientific magazines - FlipSide is very readable
• Purchase relevant revision material through the school when they become available

SECURING SUCCESS:

Pupils’ progress will be monitored throughout the course and reported in line with school policy.

STAFF:

Head of Science - Ann Keogh
If you have any enquiries regarding specific Science issues please contact the Head of Science.