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WJEC GCSE Science suite
Links below support the teaching of ‘How Science Works’ aspects of the WJEC suite of GCSE science specifications. These are assessed both internally and externally.
Externally assessed units may address
• links between data, evidence, theories and explanations - for example, the way that Rutherford’s alpha scattering experiments enabled him to develop a nuclear model of the atom.
• the application and implications of science - for example, decisions about types of power stations. See the Energy Foresight website.
Internally-assessed Units primarily address practical and enquiry skills. The core component of the Internal Assessment scheme in all WJEC specifications is the ‘Practical Task’. Assessment exercises are provided by the board and marked by the teacher.
Two optional approaches are also available:
• an ‘Extended Report - The candidate carries out research into available information about a relevant topic in the specification, e.g. the desirability of erecting wind-farms, analyses and discusses the information, draws conclusions and communicates the findings.’
• an ‘Investigatory Planning Exercise - Candidates, working individually under supervision, plan an experimental investigation. The investigation could be one into the relationship between variables or a forensic-style investigation into the nature of unknown materials.’ The Planning Task must be submitted to the Board for prior approval.
In the practical task, students are expected to distinguish between independent, dependent and controlled variables. They are also expected to demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of accuracy, reliability and validity of measurements.
The development of scientific ideas
Accuracy, reliability and validity
- Radiation from black and shiny surfaces
- Simple electromagnet
- Investigating simple steel springs
- Measuring the radius of a marble
- Measuring paper
Planning an investigation
- Investigating simple steel springs
- Heating and cooling curves
- Stretchy sweets
- Investigating the resistance of wires
- Investigating the time of oscillation of a pendulum
Related Guidance
Updated 5 Sep 2008
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