New GCEs for 2008
GCE Science in Society (2400)
A2 outline
At A2, this specification will further develop knowledge about How Science Works. Candidates will be given the opportunity to demonstrate and apply through reasoned debate their grasp of the broad principles and frameworks of ideas within the field of contemporary science and technology.
The A2 specification has 2 units:
Unit 3: Exploring Issues
Topic list
- Cells, chemicals and the mind
- Nature and nurture
- Watching the brain working
- Global climate change
- Energy futures
- Sustaining the variety of life on Earth
Assessment
| Written Paper: | 2 hours |
| Weighting: | 30% of total A Level marks |
The paper will include a number of structured questions designed to assess understanding of the topics, ideas and concepts outlined in Unit 3.
Questions will include comprehension, data analysis and response, some questions will require longer answers written in continuous prose.
Unit 4: Case Study
Topic list
- Evaluating a scientific or technological issue.
Assessment
| Written Paper: | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Weighting: | 20% of total A Level marks |
Unit 4 is a case study based around some pre-release material.Material will be provided for study approximately six weeks before the examination.
Section A: consists of several structured questions requiring short responses.
Section B: consists of two questions, one that requires some explanationof science for a specified audience and one that requires consideration of an issue and argument of a personal view.
Key documents
