AS/A2 Biology AS/A2 Chemistry AS/A2 Physics BTEC Level 3 Applied Science 2012 Entry
Science
1987-2012
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At Carmel, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Applied Science are 25 Years grouped within the Faculty of Science
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Each course aims to develop a sound understanding of scientific individuals principles to prepare you for an increasingly complex world
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Your progress will be constantly assessed to ensure you achieve your full potential
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Excellent pass rates are obtained in all subjects year on year
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Most students progress to Higher Education courses including pure science, engineering, medicine, computing, mathematical and sports related degrees.
of inspiring
1987-2012 25 Years of inspiring individuals
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Michael’s Perspective Carmel is a fun and friendly environment in which to learn. There is time to socialise with friends and plenty of time to study. Biology is a fascinating subject that teaches students about a variety of things. It is both interesting and challenging and very enjoyable. For my enrichment I played basketball which allowed me to switch off from thinking about my subjects and just have fun. The facilities and resources at Carmel are fantastic, you are never more that a minute’s walk from a computer and the library gives students access to support and a wide range of text books. After I leave Carmel I intend to study Medicine and become a successful doctor.
AS/A2 Biology Exam Board OCR Why choose Biology at Carmel? Our AS results are excellent and well above the national average. Out of the 230 students who studied Biology to AS at Carmel last year 59% of them gained A*–C grades. Many of them continue to A2 and last year out of the 116 A2 students 78% achieved A*–C grades. You will be taught by an enthusiastic, caring team who are committed to your success in the subject. Members of the department are experienced examiners and moderators. You will have the opportunity to experience a wealth of enrichment activities – see the college website for some of our latest excursions including a visit to Chester Zoo and trips to London, Holland, Costa Rica and Yellowstone National Park, USA. What will the course involve? You will enjoy a wide range of learning experiences, including practical work, practice exam questions, comprehensive printed notes and interactive fun activities.
Michael Lea De La Salle
The AS course covers fundamental biological principles and how this knowledge is used in the 21st century, for example, in stem cell research. At AS Level, you will study a wide variety of units from cells and mammalian transport, through to evolution and health and disease. At A2, you will study more detailed aspects of Biology, and their applications in modern scientific research are emphasised.
Homework is set regularly to test your understanding and you will be given feedback on your progress. An extensive support system is in place to help you achieve your potential. How will I be assessed? The AS course is made up of three modules. One theory module is examined in January and the other in May. Throughout the year you will carry out practical investigations which contribute to your practical exam mark. This component is intended to develop skills in planning, implementing, analysing and evaluating experimental work. At A2, a further three modules are studied, 2 theory and 1 practical. Where does this course lead? There are many careers for which Biology is either essential or very useful - medicine, nursing, dentistry, physiotherapy, health education, veterinary science, agriculture, pharmacy, pharmacology, bio-chemistry, PE, psychology, speech therapy, forestry, biotechnology, food science, microbiology, laboratory work, radiography and teaching.
Studying: Biology, Chemistry, Psychology
Meet the Tutors
How successful are our Biology students?
Ruth Carey Head of Department
Level
Carmen Nunez
2009
Perpetua Jones Eve McQueen Sue Odlin Andrea Stiles Gemma Palmieri
Number of entries
% A*-B
% A*-C
% A*-E
AS A2
196 137
36 38
56 68
94 97
2010
AS A2
223 135
27 39
47 66
80 97
2011
AS A2
230 116
38 53
59 78
92 100
Jennifer Grant
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AS/A2 Chemistry
James’ Perspective
Exam Board OCR Why choose Chemistry at Carmel? Both the AS and A2 results are outstanding with students achieving 58% A*-B at AS, and 67% A*-B at A2 level. These results are significantly higher than the national average and much greater than those of other local colleges. The Chemistry tutors are extremely committed to ensuring that you will be given the help you need to achieve at your highest possible level. All the tutors are very friendly and develop good relationships with students, so they will support you fully and ensure that you are successful. One member of the Chemistry team is an experienced OCR examiner, which is extremely valuable when helping to prepare you for external examinations. What will the course involve? You will be given a comprehensive set of interactive notes, which provide a detailed coverage of the course specification. The notes also include many practice questions that will allow you to consolidate your understanding of the material being covered. Regular practical sessions will help to develop your chemical techniques and laboratory skills, which will be invaluable for future science related careers. These practical sessions are closely linked to the theory taught in lessons as this proves an effective way of developing your grasp of
the theoretical concepts covered. Regular homework and end of topic tests are used to inform both you and your tutor of your progress in the module. How will I be assessed? The AS course consists of 2 modules, one which is examined in January the other examined in June. The coursework element of this subject is assessed throughout the year by a series of assessed practicals. Likewise the A2 course contains 2 modules, one examined in January the other in June. Once again the coursework element is assessed through a series of practical assessments which occur throughout the A2 year.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Carmel, and have discovered a new enthusiasm for Chemistry. The tutors are very passionate about their subject and this has inspired me to pursue a career in this field. The Chemistry leader board is a great way to enthuse students to achieve in end of unit tests and the top few are given a prize as a reward. I hope to study for an MCHEM at the University of Liverpool as I wish to pursue a career in the Pharmaceutical industry as a Research Chemist.
Where does this course lead? As well as being an important subject in its own right, Chemistry is an essential requirement for medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science. In the past our students have entered university to follow many different courses: - pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, analytical chemistry, pure chemistry, forensic science, biological and environmental sciences, law, engineering and business.
James Leppert West Derby School Studying: Chemistry, Biology, Maths
How successful are our Chemistry students? Level
Number of entries
% A*-B
% A*-C
% A*-E
2009
AS A2
139 133
52 62
79 84
95 99
2010
AS A2
154 105
66 56
83 77
97 100
2011
AS A2
173 116
58 67
76 85
95 99
Meet the Tutors
Gill Townsend Head of Department Shaun Charles Jim Ashbrook Rebecca Gledhill Graham Marshall
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Michael’s Perspective Carmel has a friendly atmosphere which is easy to settle into. Physics is a challenging subject but the tutors are supportive and are always willing to help you with the work. Also, practicals break up the written work and allow you to work in groups from time to time. What’s impressive about Carmel is the dedication of the tutors, there are tutorials going on all the time and you can always find tutors to talk to outside of lessons if you have any questions. After Carmel I plan to study Physics at the University of Liverpool and take up a career in Physics.
AS/A2 Physics Exam Board OCR Why choose Physics at Carmel? The Physics department at Carmel is excellent and students taking Physics are highly successful. Both the AS and A2 results are outstanding with students achieving 34% A*-B at AS, and 64% A*-B at A2 Level. All the tutors are very friendly and approachable and they have a wide range of experience to help support you. This expertise ranges from careers guidance, through specialist subject knowledge, to experience of examination marking. A wide range of support and guidance will be available outside of lessons, and tutors will happily give up their time to help you to further your understanding. What will the course involve?
Michael Lewis Rainhill High School Studying: Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, General Studies & Critical Thinking
Physics is a key part of science and technology and it appeals to those people who want to understand the world around them. The course delivers Physics in a stimulating manner whilst ensuring that the basics necessary for further study are covered. Astrophysics, particle physics, quantum physics, and technological applications such as medical physics, are some of the areas that you will find particularly enjoyable. You will be given an excellent set of notes that have been written by the staff to cover the specification. We also continue to be at the leading edge of integrating new technology into the delivery of the course. Problems are studied, both in class and for homework, to help you to explore how the theories are applied to reallife situations.
Level
Edward Swann Head of Department
2009
Charlie Burton David Seddon
Both tests, homework and projects using ICT are regularly set to monitor your performance. How will I be assessed? At both AS and A2 Level, three units are examined, two theory and the third unit is based on practical skills. Exams are taken in the January and June of each year. Where does this course lead? Physics is a fascinating subject to study at higher level and Physics graduates are in demand because of their intelligence, analytical skills and proven ability to solve problems. Physics is an essential requirement for a number of careers and in the past our students have entered a broad range of areas including medicine, engineering, architecture, computer science as well as physics.
How successful are our Physics students?
Meet the Tutors
Mala Sandhu
Practical work is regularly undertaken, via class experiments and in the practical unit.
Number of entries
% A*-B
% A*-C
% A*-E
AS A2
85 54
48 57
65 72
94 98
2010
AS A2
104 45
50 56
69 80
90 100
2011
AS A2
116 61
34 64
59 80
94 97
Jamie Bickley
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BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Exam Board EDEXCEL Why choose Applied Science at Carmel? Carmel College has a strong tradition of successful science teaching over many years. This is a very well structured, practical science course leading to nationally recognised qualifications equivalent in standard to AS and A2 Science GCEs. The course covers all three sciences of Biology, Physics and Chemistry but in an “applied” context. That means that you will learn the science in a “real life” context through specially developed assignments. You will sometimes work on your own and sometimes in small groups. We will teach you the research and study skills you will need for success. There will also be opportunities to visit scientific workplaces to learn how science and scientific skills are used professionally. Such visits will allow you to gain ideas about career opportunities in science. As well as using ICT for presenting your work, you will also be encouraged to use it for research and for monitoring and recording experimental work. You will benefit from extensive support and guidance throughout your time on the course both during lessons and through the college tutorial system. We pride ourselves on taking a personal interest in your success. What will the course involve? In year 1 you will work towards the new Level 3 BTEC Certificate in Applied Science. This is comprised of 3 units: Unit 1: Fundamentals
of Science; Unit 2: Working in the Science Industry; Unit 4: Scientific Practical Techniques. In year 2 you will extend your work towards the new Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science with 3 further units: Unit 11: Physiology of Human Body Systems; Unit 3: Scientific Investigation; Unit 22: Chemical Laboratory Techniques. How will I be assessed? All units are 100% assignment based, with no formal examinations. Clear objective criteria are used to assess competency in all the key science areas and you will be able to see how your achievements build up as the course proceeds. There will be plenty of opportunity to show progress.
At Carmel I enjoy the unconditional support and access you can get from teachers and resources when you need them. Studying Applied Science is really fun, the classes are generally active, practical work or research based. We do lots of experiments and learn how to cope in a lab environment. Often there are activities going on related to the course for instance Newcastle University students came in to talk about virology and microbiology which helped improve my lab techniques. When I leave Carmel I hope to study Marine Science and become a commercial diver for renewable energy resources.
Where does this course lead? BTEC Level 3 Applied Science will prepare you for a career in many science-based industries and organisations. It will also support those who are interested in other careers for which science is important such as Primary Teaching, Childcare, Nursing, Sports Management or Sports Training. Many former science students have progressed to university to study a wide range of subjects including Forensics, Construction, Animal Behaviour, Biochemistry, Physiotherapy and Biomedical Sciences. Other students have chosen to follow Apprenticeships in Laboratory Work or Engineering.
What other activities do Science students get involved in? At Carmel we provide students with many opportunities to become involved with external activities. These range from involvement in the Nuffield Bursary Scheme, vocational work placements, to competitions such as the Physics Olympics. All the departments regularly undertake trips and local destinations include Daresbury Atomic Laboratories, Fiddlers Ferry Power Station, and Chester Zoo. Opportunities for overseas visits exist and recent “excursions” have included Biology trips to the Azores, Holland and Costa Rica, plus a science trip to CERN in Geneva. We have strong links with all the local universities and so use their expertise whenever possible, for example, the Chemistry department uses the spectroscopy equipment in both Manchester and Liverpool Universities.
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Laken’s Perspective
Laken-Louise Hives St Edmund Arrowsmith Studying: Applied Science, Biology, Geography
Meet the Tutors Jim Ashbrook Head of Department Rachel Dickinson Daryl Doyle Technical Support Staff: Paul Whorton Lynn Parr Jackie Wilcock Mark Kelly
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Enriching Experiences Yellowstone National Park 21 Biology students visited Yellowstone, USA’s premier National Park, this summer. Yellowstone is the world’s most active area for geysers, mud pots and hot springs. They saw many of these volcanic features including the famous “Old Faithful”, which erupts every 90 minutes to heights of 200 ft. As well as these phenomenal sights, Yellowstone is famous for its wildlife and the students saw Bald Eagles, Osprey, Bison, Elk, Moose, Chipmunks, and to top it all a Grizzly Bear. They were also able to see Wolves and Black Bears feeding in a wildlife sanctuary. The students experienced the grand scale of the American Wilderness but also had an insight into the American way of life through living in log cabins, eating amazing breakfasts, shopping at small town stores, and visiting a rodeo. As the students said - it was “awesome”, “a trip of a lifetime”, “something I will never forget”.
Chemistry Enrichment Each year, A2 students take part in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Olympiad competition which involves a challenging two hour written test of chemical knowledge. Team Carmel always comes away with awards and commendations. In June 2011, 30 AS Chemistry students visited Manchester University to take a spectroscopy tour. The students were able to see many of the techniques that they are required to know, in action, and were able to run some analysis themselves.
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The Nuffield Bursary Scheme Each year around 5-8 of Carmel’s most dedicated and high achieving Science students successfully gain a place on the Nuffield Bursary Scheme, which is organised by SETPOINT. The students take part in a four week paid project during the summer of their first year of A Levels. The project is then written up and presented at a regional final. There are around 200 applicants per year across Merseyside, Cheshire and Warrington, with only 100 placements available within Science and Industry. In 2010, student Tom Syder was asked to exhibit his project at the Big Bang Science Festival in London.
Costa Rica The Biology department visited Costa Rica during Easter 2010. The trip was partly work and partly pleasure. The students first worked with a group of Costa Ricans on a Turtle Conservation project going out on night patrols to find the turtles laying their eggs. The eggs were then collected and taken to a safe place to hatch to protect them from poachers. During the day the students helped make a new turtle hatchery and removed driftwood from the beach to give clear areas on which the turtles could lay their eggs. Then it was off to Cahuita beach for some fun including snorkelling over the coral reef. The students also did a rainforest walk and saw monkeys, poisonous snakes and a wide variety of plants. The third stop was the Sarapiqui Activity Centre where the group stayed in deluxe tents in the rainforest, going to sleep to the sounds of tree frogs, cicadas and howler monkeys. Students and staff got the chance to swing through the trees on zip wires for a Rainforest Canopy Tour – voted the best activity of the holiday!
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Frequently Asked Questions What are the entry requirements for these AS courses?
Physics students visit CERN in Geneva
Biology: You will need grade B in GCSE Biology OR BB in Core & Additional Science (not Applied) PLUS grade Cs in GCSE Maths and English Language. Chemistry: You will need grade B in GCSE Chemistry OR BB in Core & Additional Science (not Applied) PLUS grade Cs in GCSE Maths and English Language.
Biology trip to Arnhem Zoo, Holland
Physics: You will need grade B in GCSE Physics OR BB in two academic GCSE Sciences (not Applied) PLUS grade B in GCSE Maths and grade C in GCSE English Language. BTEC Level 3 Applied Science: You will need grade Cs (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths, English and Science. What is the Science Faculty like?
Biology Department trip to London
From September 2009, Science students have been studying in the newly built teaching block which provides a modern and spacious, state-of-the-art learning environment. The facilities for Science are outstanding with nine very well equipped laboratories, two computer suites and four tutorial bases. Other rooms also
exist for the degree students. The majority of the laboratories “belong” to a single department and you will therefore generally attend the same room throughout the week for your lessons. All rooms in the new building are equipped with interactive white boards, multi-media projectors and wireless internet connection enabling internet research to be done in the laboratories. What support will I receive in the Science Faculty? Tutors within science will “go the extra mile” to ensure that you will succeed. Individual and small group support sessions are timetabled in the science tutorial base. In addition tutors will make themselves available should you feel that individual help is required. Revision skills tutorials are provided to help you to develop the techniques that you will need to succeed both at A Level and in Higher Education. Tutors have regular contact with your parents and will keep them informed regarding your progress. Enrichment sessions will be provided to extend even the most able, including preparation for the BMAT exams and competitions such as the Physics Olympiad and AS National Competition.
Students gained awards at the Chemistry Olympiad
More Information The specifications for Biology, Chemistry and Physics can be obtained from: www.ocr.org.uk The specification for Applied Science can be obtained from: www.edexcel.com
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