Science Overview / Applied Science

Why study a Science?
A fundamental understanding of how things work is a vital part of your education. IB science courses help you to understand how everything you experience in daily life fits together – from sub-atomic particles to the grandest designs in Nature. Science seeks explanations of all phenomena, and promotes rational and logical thought. And of course, it is responsible for all those inventions you depend on for your very existence.

How good must I be?
Past experience shows that pupils will be able to study a Group 4 science subject at standard level successfully with no background in, or previous knowledge of, science. Their approach to study, characterised by the specific IB learner profile attributes – inquirers, thinkers and communicators – will be significant here.

Course structure

Both levels undertake a common core syllabus, and an internal assessment scheme. Pupils are presented with a syllabus that encourages the development of certain skills, attributes and attitudes. While the skills and activities of Group 4 science subjects are common to pupils at both levels, pupils at HL are required to study some topics in greater depth, to study additional topics and to study extension material of a more demanding nature in the common options. The distinction between SL and HL is one of breadth and depth.

Pupils at Standard Level are required to spend 40 hours, and pupils at Higher Level 60 hours, on practical/ investigative work. This includes 10 hours for the project.
 

Standard and Higher Level

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Design Technology
• Physics
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 

 

 

SL Total teaching hours	150
Theory total	110
Core	110
Practical work total	40
Investigations	20
Group 4 project	10
Individual Investigation	10

 

HL Total teaching hours	240
Theory total	180
Core	120
Additional higher level	60
Practical work total	60
Investigations	40
Group 4 project	10
Individual Investigation	10

 

 

Cambridge Advanced National in Applied Science

Exam board: OCR  ocr.org.uk
Syllabus code: H151 (Extended Certificate)

 

Why study Applied Science?

The Extended Certificate in Applied Science provides students with a theoretical knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of science, preparing them for progression to undergraduate study. It covers core topics of biology, physics and chemistry and will equip students with relevant industry skills through researching, planning and performing a range of different laboratory investigations.

 

Requirements:

Pupils should be aiming for at least a grade 4/4 in GCSE Double Award Science or equivalent separate sciences. At least a grade 4 in Mathematics is also recommended.

What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject?
The Advanced Applied Qualification (AAQ) in Applied Science provides an excellent foundation for progressing to university and higher-level technical study. It combines academic science with hands-on, practical skills that prepare you for a wide range of science-related degrees and future careers.

Applied Science students develop strong analytical, laboratory, and problem-solving skills — all of which are highly valued by universities and employers. 

 

Assessment:

Students must complete three mandatory and two optional units to be awarded the Extended Certificate in Applied Science

Mandatory Units:

• Fundamentals of science: Externally assessed examination
• Science in society: Externally assessed examination
• Investigating science: Mandatory NEA

For the examined units there are January and June examination series and students are able to resit the examinations on two occasions.

Optional Non-Examined Units:

• Forensic biology 
• Medical physics NEA

There are two NEA submission windows allowing students to improve their work and resubmit it for reassessment if they have not performed their best.