Course choice information

Here you will find details of the course contents for each subject.

Faculty of Business Education, Enterprise and ICT

Progression Pathways

Examples of progression pathways

*Pupil 4 is an example of a standard progression route. This could apply to all subjects.
Pupils 1-3 will progress according to their interests and ability.
Pupils have in the past chosen to self-study at AH level in Accounting and Business Management and the Faculty are prepared to support pupils who wish to continue to study at that level in any of the subjects offered.

National 5 Administration

Course Rationale

The National 5 Administration course enables learners to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding required to perform administrative tasks using a range of office software applications. It is also available at National 4 and 3. Learners will be expected to demonstrate a sound capability in using the features of each software package to solve administrative tasks in the context of working as an administrator for an organisation.

Course Content

Theory

Tasks/duties of administrators; skills/qualities of administrators; customer service; health & safety legislation; security of people, property and information; reliability & validity of sources of information; file management; corporate image; electronic communication.

IT Applications

Word-processing; Desktop publishing; Spreadsheets; Databases; Presentations; Electronic communication.

Skills

Use of ICT in performing a range of complex administrative tasks;
Organising, processing and communicating information; Problem-solving; Team-working;
Using initiative and thinking skills – remembering, understanding and applying;
Communication (verbal and written); Decision-making; Researching and presenting information;
Employability; Literacy and Numeracy – information handling.

Course Assessment

Question Paper

The performance assesses the learner’s knowledge & understanding of Administration theory and practical skills in using spreadsheets and databases.
This is worth 42% of the overall marks for the course assessment.

Assignment

The Assignment takes place under exam conditions within class time. It tests theory and the remainder of office applications not being tested in the final exam question paper.
The Assignment is worth 58% of the overall marks for the course assessment. It is completed in March.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 3 / 4 level can progress to National 4 / 5 Administration in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher Administration in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Administrative Assistant Administrative Officer (Courts) Call Centre Operator

Car Rental Agent Catering Manager Civil Enforcement Officer

Civil Service Administrative Officer

A Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills at SCQF level 6

Background

Skills Development Scotland (SDS), alongside other partners, is working with industry to increase the range of work based learning opportunities for pupils in the senior phase of secondary schools.

This qualification will allow pupils to gain vocational qualifications that combine sector specific skills alongside the knowledge that underpins these skills in a workplace setting while still at school. This prepares pupils for entry into a career in the Business sector.

Employers cited that many skills relevant to Business Administration were lacking and or needed to be improved by applicants: These skills are embedded within the course and include

Skills lacking

customer handling
planning and organisation
problem solving
written communication
literacy
numeracy
team working

Skills to improve

planning and organising
problem solving
team working
oral communication
written communication

Also, employers stated that in terms of Secondary school leavers entering employment, 29 per cent were either very poorly or poorly prepared, 21 per cent had a lack of working experience and 14 per cent had a lack of motivation.

This qualification addresses these issues!

Why choose Business Skills?

Business administrators and budding managers have a highly transferable set of knowledge, skills and behaviours that can be applied in all sectors. This includes small and large businesses alike; from the public sector, private sector and charitable sector.

What is the Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills?

The Foundation Apprenticeship (FA) in Business Skills is for pupils in S5 and S6 and typically takes 2 years to complete.

The first year (S5) of the Foundation Apprenticeship will feature the National Progression Award, including the work placement unit. The second year (S6) will mainly be delivered in the workplace, and will enable workplace competence to be developed.

Foundation Apprentices will need some work placement during the first year; and may need some class time in year 2 to complete the National Progression Award.

Proposed delivery of the NPA

The following suggested activities summarise how delivery of a Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills could be scheduled, across S5 and S6:

Activities in S5:

NPA at School
Site visits to employers
Workplace component /work placement unit of NPA
Student event (live)

Activities in S6:

Extended work placement of 1 day per week (16-20 weeks)
Real work projects
Team-working
Interview / career planning support
Final assessment of SVQ units

Structure of the Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills

1 SCQF credit point is equal to 10 notional hours of learning.

Certification

SQA will issue the commemorative certificate for the Foundation Apprenticeship.

Business Skills placements for the Foundation Apprenticeship

Placements for pupils undertaking a Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills should provide the opportunity to have significant input to a long-term engagement with a business issue, from the identification of a problem or opportunity, through to its resolution or implementation. This should include tasks such as:

producing business documents
contributing to the organisation of events
developing and delivering presentations
providing reception services
using and maintaining office equipment
taking responsibility for logistics e.g. travel and accommodation
providing administrative support for meetings
using a variety of software packages
presenting business documents and managing projects
applying problem-solving skills to resolve challenging or complex complaints

Selection of pupils and entry requirements for the Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills Commencing S5

The Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills is aimed at pupils commencing S5. Pupils will have the ability to work towards the SCQF level 6 qualification components (the same level as Higher). They need to have a good level of English and Mathematics. Having taken a Business subject would be an advantage.

Enhancement/Progression

A pupil completing the Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills will have achieved a large proportion of the requirements for a Modern Apprenticeship in Business Admin Level 3. Progression routes from the Business Admin Modern Apprenticeship (BAMA) framework could include, for example:

SVQ 4 in Business & Administration
SVQ 4 in another cross-sector area such as Management
Business related HNCs (SCQF Level 7)
Business related HNDs (SCQF Level 8) with possible progression to a full Honours Degree
Professional qualifications (SCQF Level 7 and above).

The Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills will also give a good insight into other Business-related subjects, which the graduating Foundation Apprentice could pursue, either through a Modern Apprenticeship or academic/vocational studies in:

Digital marketing
Procurement
Supply chain management
Enterprise

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Faculty of English

Progression Pathways

Examples of progression pathways

N = National level

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Faculty of Humanities

Progression Pathways

Examples of progression pathways

National 4 People in Society

Course Rationale

The National 4 People in Society course enables learners to develop a range of skills as well as knowledge and understanding of people and society from across different subjects, drawing on the social studies, health & wellbeing, and religious & moral education curriculum areas. It offers learners the opportunity to study themes, issues and topics of interest and relevance to them. The course is also available at National 3 level.

Course Content

3 Units

Compare & Contrasting
Decision Making
Investigating Skills

Skills

Independent and team project and research work
Community based learning and use of ICT
Embedding literacy and numeracy skills
Researching and presenting information
Evaluating
Communicating
Problem solving skills using all types of data
Decision-making skills
Citizenship

Course Assessment

There is no SQA exam question paper – the course is internally assessed

Assignment

Learners have the choice of a Modern Studies topic or issue. Their choice should refer to a contemporary political, social or international issue. With support, learners choose a topic; collect evidence; organise this to describe and explain the issue; use the skills from the Units being studied and present findings. This is done using resources in class, supervised by the class teacher.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to a social subject at National 4 or National 5 in S5 or S6.

Successful candidates at National 3 level can progress to National 4 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Law Journalism Teaching Forensics Medicine

Police Armed Forces Civil Service Financial Sector

Politics Healthcare and Social Services

National 5 Geography

Course Rationale

The National 5 Geography course enables learners to develop their understanding of the world, with a focus on the environment, people and how they interact, using local, UK and global perspectives. The course is also available at National 4 level.

Course Content

3 Units

Physical environments
Human Environments
Global Issues

Skills

·         Indoor & Outdoor Learning
·         Independent and team project & research work
·         Researching and presenting information
·         Evaluating and communicating
·         Problem solving skills using all types of data
·         Developing analytical higher order thinking skills
·         Mapping skills
·         Using and interpreting a range of numerical and graphical information

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 80 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 20 minutes.

The question paper has three sections. Candidates must answer one part from each section. There are options in each section to allow opportunities for personalisation and choice.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks and is completed towards the end of Term 3.

Learners have an open choice of a Geography topic or issue written up under controlled conditions and supervision.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to National 5 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Air Cabin Crew Archaeologist Building Surveyor Cartographer

Civil Engineer Countryside Officer Countryside Ranger Forest Officer

Dynamic positioning Operator Estate Agent

Higher Geography

Course Rationale

The Higher Geography course enables learners to develop an understanding of our changing world, its human interactions and physical processes. Practical activities, including fieldwork, provide opportunities for learners to interact with their environment.

Course Content

3 Units

Physical environments
Human Environments
Global Issues

Skills

- Developing and applying skills across complex physical, human & global issues
- Researching & evaluating a wide range of information collected from a range of sources/
- Using a wide range of mapping skills and techniques in geographical contexts
- Using a wide range of research skills and techniques, including fieldwork skills
- Using a wide range of numerical and graphical skills and techniques

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 100 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 50 minutes.
This question paper is focused on physical and human environments.

Question Paper 2

This is worth 60 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 10 minutes.
This question paper is focused on global issues and geographical skills.

Assignment

This is worth 30 marks.
The assignment enables learners to demonstrate the application of their skills, knowledge and understanding within the context of a geographical topic or issue. The assignment has two stages research & production of evidence. The research stage is completed over a notional period of 8 hours. Learners have 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete the production of evidence stage. This must be done in one sitting under supervision.

Progression

Successful candidates at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Air Cabin Crew Archaeologist Building Surveyor Cartographer

Pilot Civil Engineer Countryside Officer Countryside Ranger

Dynamic positioning Operator Forrest Officer Estate Agent

Advanced Higher Geography

Course Rationale

At Advanced Higher level, learners will further develop an understanding of our changing world and its human and physical processes. Opportunities for practical activities including fieldwork will be essential parts of this Course, so that learners can interact with their environment. This Course will provide learners with the knowledge and skills to enable them to effectively engage with challenging issues in their local communities and wider society.

Course Content

2 Units

- Geographical Skills
- Geographical Issues

Skills

Developing and using a wide range of research and mapping skills and techniques
Developing and using a wide range of numerical and graphical skills and techniques
Developing and using a wide range of statistical techniques
Team working and analytical skills

Communication skills and extended writing skills

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 50 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hour 30 minutes.
The question paper will have either two or three questions, with the mark allocations as follows:
Map Interpretation (20); Gathering and Processing Techniques (10); Data Handling (20).

Project folio

This is worth 100 marks.
The purpose is to demonstrate challenge and application by demonstrating skills, knowledge and understanding through undertaking independent research into a geographical study and a current complex geographical issue. This will involve a detailed study based on geographical research together with a critical evaluation of an issue from a geographical perspective.

Progression

Successful candidates at Advanced Higher level can progress to Higher Education degree courses in social sciences and related scientific areas.

Career Pathways

Town Planner Transport Planner Surveyor Cartographer

Geography Teacher Civil Engineer Environmental Waste Manager Pilot

Dynamic positioning Operator Forrest Officer Estate Agent

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National 5 History

Course Rationale

The National 5 History course enables learners to develop their understanding of the world by learning about other people and their values, in different times, places and circumstances. The course helps candidates to develop a map of the past and an appreciation and understanding of the forces which have shaped the world today. The course is also available at National 4 level.

Course Content

3 Units

Scottish – The Wars of Independence, 1286–1328
British – The Atlantic Slave Trade, 1770–1807
European and World – Free at Last? Civil Rights in the USA, 1918–1968

Skills

Evaluating the origin, purpose, content of historical sources
Critically discussing the impact/effect of historical developments on the world today
Literacy and communication skills and presenting information in a structured manner
Decision-making and drawing reasoned conclusions supported by evidence both written and at times numerical
Researching and analysing historical information
Team work, inter-personal and problem solving skills

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 80 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 20 minutes.
The question paper has three sections. Candidates must answer one part from each section. There are options in each section to allow opportunities for personalisation and choice.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts 1 hour and is completed in March.
Learners have an open choice within the context of a historical question or issue written up under controlled conditions and supervision

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to National 5 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Archaeologist Archivist History Teacher Art Gallery Curator

Broadcast Journalist Civil Service Conservator Diplomatic Service Officer

Tourist Guide Stone Mason Museum Assistant Travel Advisor

Higher History

Course Rationale

The Higher History course enables learners to develop a greater understanding of the world by learning about other people and their values, in different times, places and circumstances by acquiring breadth and depth in their knowledge and understanding of the past through the study of British, European and world, and Scottish contexts. Assessing elements of political, social, economic and cultural history within these contexts helps learners to develop a map of the past and an appreciation and understanding of the forces which have shaped the world today.

Course Content

3 Units

Scottish – Migration and empire, 1830–1939
British – Britain, 1851–1951
European and World – Germany, 1815–1939

Skills

Evaluating the origin, purpose, content and context of historical sources
Evaluating the impact of historical developments and synthesising information
Evaluating factors contributing towards historical developments & drawing well-reasoned conclusions
Researching and analysing historical information

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 44 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.
Questions on British, European and world history.

Question Paper 2

This is worth 36 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.
Questions on Scottish history.

Assignment

This is worth 30 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is completed in March.
Candidates have an open choice of historical topic, question or issue. Their choice is not constrained by the content of the question papers.

Progression

Successful candidates at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Archaeologist Archivist History Teacher Art Gallery Curator

Broadcast Journalist Civil Service Conservator Diplomatic Service Officer

Tourist Guide Stone Mason Museum Assistant Travel Advisor

Advanced Higher History

Course Rationale

Advanced Higher level allows learners to acquire depth in their knowledge and understanding of historical themes and to develop further the skills of analysing complex historical issues, evaluating sources and drawing conclusions. The Course makes a distinctive contribution to the curriculum by engaging in the issues which arise from significant historical events and developments. The depth of study enables learners to engage fully in historical debate and thereby develop a deeper appreciation of the forces which have shaped historical developments.

Course Content

2 Units

Historical Study – Russia: from Tsarism to Stalinism, 1914-45
Researching Historical Issues

Skills

Evaluating a wide range of historical sources which have some complex features, taking into account their provenance, content and historical and historiographical contexts
Engaging with the views of a range of historians and sustaining a coherent line of argument
Drawing well-reasoned conclusions supported by detailed evidence
Identifying appropriate research issues & planning and managing a complex programme of research
Sourcing, collecting and recording appropriate and reliable information
Evaluating, analysing and synthesising evidence
Organising, presenting and referencing findings using appropriate conventions

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 90 marks. This question paper lasts 3 hours.
Learners will answer questions from one Section only. Each Section will have two parts with the following mark allocations: Part A: Historical Issues (50 marks) and Part B: Historical Sources (40 marks).

Project-dissertation

This is worth 50 marks. Learners must identify an appropriate complex historical issue for research. A range of both primary and secondary sources must support this.

Progression

Successful candidates at Advanced Higher level can progress to Higher Education degree courses in social sciences or related areas.

Career Pathways

Archaeologist Archivist History Teacher Art Gallery Curator

Broadcast Journalist Civil Service Conservator Diplomatic Service Officer

Tourist Guide Stone Mason Museum Assistant Travel Advisor

National 5 Modern Studies

Course Rationale

The National 5 Modern Studies course enables learners to develop knowledge and understanding of contemporary political and social issues in local, Scottish, United Kingdom and International contexts. The course is also available at National 4 level. Learners develop skills to interpret and participate in the social and political process they will encounter in their lives.

Course Content

3 Units

Political Issues: Democracy in Scotland and the UK
Social Issues in the UK: Crime and the Law
International Issues: World Powers: China

Skills

Use a range of information to develop arguments to support and oppose views
Reach a decision based on evidence
Research and analytical skills
Team working skills
Communication skills
Extended writing skills
Organisational skills
Thinking skills
Citizenship

Course Assessment

Question Paper

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts 1 hour and is completed in March.
Learners have an open choice of a Modern Studies topic or issue. Their choice should refer to a contemporary political, social or international issue.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to National 5 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Law Journalism Teaching Forensics Medicine

Police Armed Forces Civil Service Financial Sector

Politics Healthcare and Social Services

Higher Modern Studies

Course Rationale

The Higher Modern Studies course enables learners to develop knowledge and understanding of contemporary political and social issues in local, Scottish, United Kingdom and International contexts. Learners develop skills to interpret and participate in the social and political process they will encounter in their lives.

Course Content

3 Units

Political Issues: Democracy in Scotland and the UK
Social Issues in the UK: Social Inequality
International Issues: World Powers: USA

Skills

Use a range of information to develop arguments to support and oppose views
Reach a decision based on evidence
Research and analytical skills
Team working and organizational skills
Communication skills and extended writing skills

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 52 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 45 minutes.
This question paper has three sections. There are options in each section to allow opportunities for personalisation and choice.

Question Paper 2

This is worth 28 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 15 minutes.
The skills of analysing, evaluating and synthesising evidence are assessed in this question paper.

Assignment

This is worth 30 marks. This question paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is completed in March.
Learners choose any modern studies topic or issue that refers to a contemporary political, social or international issue.

Progression

Successful candidates at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Law Journalism Teaching Forensics Medicine

Police Armed Forces Civil Service Financial Sector

Politics Healthcare and Social Services

Advanced Higher Modern Studies

Course Rationale

At Advanced Higher level, learners will demonstrate autonomy in their learning through researching and analysing, extended writing, demonstrating independent study skills and applying critical thinking. They will also have the opportunity to develop skills in debate and discussion. Learners will also demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the scope and main areas of the specific context studied. Development of research skills, alongside the ability to draw on a range of sources in making judgements or decisions are addressed at this level.

Course Content

2 Units

Contemporary Issue: Crime and Law
Researching Contemporary Issues

Skills

Collecting and recording information
Referencing and presenting information
Research and analytical skills
Team working and analytical skills
Communication skills and extended writing skills

Course Assessment

Question Paper 1

This is worth 90 marks. This question paper lasts 3 hours.
This question paper has two sections. There are options in the first section to allow opportunities for personalisation and choice.

Project-dissertation

This is worth 50 marks.
Learners choose any relevant modern studies topic or issue that refers to a contemporary issue around Crime and Law.

Progression

Successful candidates at Advanced Higher level can progress to Higher Education degree courses in social sciences or related areas.

Career Pathways

Law Journalism Teaching Forensics Medicine

Police Armed Forces Civil Service Financial Sector

Politics Healthcare and Social Services Teacher of Modern Studies

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Faculty of Mathematics

Progression Pathways

Examples of progression pathways

N = National level
(WA) = Wider Achievement

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Faculty of Expressive Arts

Progression Pathways

Examples of progressions pathways:

* Pupil 4 is an example of a progression route that could apply to Art, Drama or Music.
Pupils progress according to their interests and abilities.

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Faculty of Health and Wellbeing

Progression Pathways

Examples of progressions pathways:

National 5 Physical Education

Course Rationale

The National 5 Physical Education course enables learners to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding required to perform effectively in physical activities. It is also available at National 4 and 3. Learners will work both independently and with others to enhance their physical wellbeing and to develop their thinking and interpersonal skills.

Course Content

Performance

- - - - This aims to develop learners’ ability to perform in physical activities by enabling them to acquire a comprehensive range of movement and performance skills.

Factors Impacting On Performance

- - - - This aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of the effects of mental, emotional, social and physical factors that impact on performance in physical activities.

Course Assessment

PERFORMANCE

- - - - The performance assesses the learner’s ability to effectively perform in two different physical activities.
      - Each performance is a single event in a challenging, competitive and/or demanding context.
      - Learners will be assessed by their teacher on the following:
      - repertoire of skills; control and fluency; effective decision-making; using and applying straightforward composition, tactics or role safely and effectively; conforming to rules, regulations and etiquette; controlling emotions and working co-operatively with others
      - Each single performance is marked out of 30 with a total of 60 marks available for both performances. This is 50% of the overall marks for the course assessment.

portfolio

- - - - The portfolio assesses the learner’s knowledge and understanding of the performance development process through 3 sections. These follow from understanding factors that impact on performance, through to enhancing personal performance, finishing with monitoring, recording & evaluating performance development.
      - The portfolio has a total of 60 marks. This is 50% of the overall marks for the course assessment.

Progression

Successful learners at National 4 level can progress to National 5 PE in S5 or S6.

Successful learners at National 5 level can progress to Higher PE in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Physiotherapist Sports Journalist Active Schools Coordinator P.E. Teacher

Sports Psychologist Sports Scientist Football Coach Sports Development Officer

Sports Coach Sports Nutritionist Lifeguard Sports Centre Management

Gym Instructor Police Officer Sports Photographer

Higher Physical Education

Course Rationale

The course enables learners to develop and enhance their movement and performance skills. Learners will develop their knowledge and apply this to the analysis and evaluation of performance within physical activities. The course also covers physical wellbeing, mental and social factors.

Course Content and Assessment

Performance

Learners must demonstrate:

- - - - a repertoire of skills — a broad and comprehensive performance repertoire (including complex movement and performance skills)
      - control and fluency of complex movement and performance skills
      - effective decision making and problem solving
      - using and applying well established composition, tactics and roles
      - extent to which rules and regulations are followed and etiquette is displayed (including working with others)
      - extent to which emotions are controlled on the day of the performance

Factors Impacting On Performance

There are five broad areas covered within the course in preparation for the final exam:

- - - - factors impacting on performance (mental, emotional, social and physical)
      - methods of collecting information to analyse factors impacting on performance
      - key planning information
      - performance development process
      - recording, monitoring and evaluating performance development

COURSE ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE

Question paper 50 marks – this is 50% of the overall marks for the course assessment.

Candidates have 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete the question paper.

Performance 60 marks – this is 50% of the overall marks for the course assessment.

The performance assesses learners’ ability to perform in two different physical activities.

Each single performance event is marked out of 30 by your teacher in line with SQA marking instructions.

Progression

Successful learners at Higher level can progress to an Advanced Higher Performance Unit in S6.

Career Pathways

Physiotherapist Sports Journalist Active Schools Coordinator P.E. Teacher

Sports Psychologist Sports Scientist Football Coach Sports Development Officer

Sports Coach Sports Nutritionist Lifeguard Sports Centre Management

Gym Instructor Police Officer Sports Photographer

National 5 Practical Cookery

Course Rationale

National 5 Practical Cookery builds on the relevant experiences and outcomes for the technologies and health & wellbeing curriculum areas. It is also available at National 4 and 3. Learners will develop cookery-related knowledge, understanding and skills through skills development and the application of those skills.

Course Content

The course develops a range of cookery skills and food preparation techniques, as well as planning, organisational and time management skills, in hospitality-related contexts. Through the course learners will:

- - - - enhance their cookery skills, food preparation techniques and ability to follow cookery processes in the context of producing dishes
      - develop their knowledge and understanding of ingredients, and their characteristics, will be developed

The importance of sustainability, responsible sourcing of ingredients and current dietary advice are also addressed.

- - - - develop their planning, organisational and time management skills by following recipes; and by planning, producing and costing dishes and meals. They also extend their ability to carry out an evaluation of prepared dishes.
      - develop their understanding of safety and hygiene when working with ingredients as well as the importance of following safe and hygienic practices at all times in a practical context

Course Assessment

The course assessment has three components:

Component 1: question paper 30 marks; Duration 1 hour

Component 2: assignment 18 marks

Component 3: practical activity 82 marks

Component 2 and component 3 are inter-related and will be assessed using one activity. Learners will carry out one task — planning and producing a meal — which will provide evidence for both components. The assignment and practical activity together have a total mark allocation of 100 marks. This is 75% of the overall marks for course assessment.

Progression

Successful learners at National 3 level can progress to National 4 Practical Cookery in S5 or S6.

Successful learners at National 4 level can progress to National 5 Practical Cookery in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Baker Bar Person Butcher Butler

Cake Decorator Chef Catering Manager Care Home Practitioner

Dietician Food Scientist Sports Nutritionist Teacher of Home Economics

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Faculty of Science

Progression Pathways

Examples of progressions pathways:

National 5 Biology

Course Rationale

National 5 Biology is the study of the study of living organisms. These substances are the building blocks of life and all of the materials that surround us. Studying relevant areas of biology such as health, environment and sustainability produces responsible citizens. The course is also available at National 4 and National 3 level.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

Cell biology: cell structure; transport across cell membranes; DNA and the production of proteins; proteins; genetic engineering; respiration
Biology: multicellular organisms: producing new cells; control and communication; reproduction; variation and inheritance; transport systems — plants; transport systems — animals; absorption of materials
Biology: life on Earth: ecosystems; distribution of organisms; photosynthesis; energy in ecosystems; food production; evolution of species

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Selecting, processing and presenting information appropriately & communicating findings/information
Making predictions based on evidence/information
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 100 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 30 minutes.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts up to 1 hour 30 mins and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation.
The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related biology knowledge and understanding at Level 5. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 / 3 level can progress to National 5 / 4 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Acupuncturist Adult Nurse Ambulance Paramedic Agricultural Engineer

Midwife Animal Care worker Biochemist Zoologist

Audiologist Microbiologist Botanist Marine Biologist

Higher Biology

Course Rationale

Higher Biology allows learners to develop a deeper understanding of the underlying themes of biology. The scale of topics ranges from molecular through to whole organism and beyond. The course develops learners’ interest and enthusiasm for biology in a range of stimulating, relevant and enjoyable contexts. The skills of scientific inquiry and investigation are developed throughout the course. This will enable learners to become scientifically-literate citizens.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

DNA and the genome: structure & replication of DNA; gene expression; cellular differentiation; the structure of the genome; mutations; evolution; genomic sequencing
Metabolism and survival: metabolic pathways; cellular respiration; metabolic rate; metabolism in conformers and regulators; metabolism and adverse conditions; environmental control of metabolism; genetic control of metabolism
Sustainability and interdependence: food supply, plant growth and productivity; plant and animal breeding; crop protection; animal welfare; symbiosis; social behavior; components of biodiversity; threats to biodiversity

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Recording detailed observations & collecting data and selecting, processing & presenting information
Making predictions based on evidence/information and processing information
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 120 marks. This question paper lasts 3 hours.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts up to 2 hours and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation. The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related biology knowledge and understanding at Higher level. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful candidates at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Acupuncturist Doctor Ambulance Paramedic Agricultural Engineer

Midwife Animal Care worker Biochemist Zoologist

Audiologist Microbiologist Botanist Marine Biologist

National 5 Chemistry

Course Rationale

National 5 Chemistry is the study of matter at the level of atoms, molecules, ions and compounds. These substances are the building blocks of life and all of the materials that surround us. Chemists play a vital role in the production of everyday commodities. Chemistry research and development is essential for the introduction of new products. The course is also available at National 4 level.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

Chemical changes and structure: rates of reaction; atomic structure and bonding related to properties of materials; formulae and reacting quantities; acids and bases
Nature’s chemistry: homologous series; everyday consumer products; energy from fuels
Chemistry in society: metals; plastics; fertilisers; nuclear chemistry; chemical analysis

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Selecting, processing and presenting information appropriately & communicating findings/information
Making predictions based on evidence/information
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 120 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 30 minutes.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts up to 1 hour 30 mins and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation.
The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related chemistry knowledge and understanding at Level 5. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to National 5 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Biochemist Aromatherapist Adult Nurse Ambulance Paramedic

Anatomical pathology technician Biologist Biomedical Scientist

Medical Herbalist Microbiologist Brewery Worker Veterinary Nurse

Higher Chemistry

Course Rationale

Higher Chemistry allows learners to develop an appreciation of the impact of chemistry on their everyday lives. Learners gain an understanding of chemical bonding and intermolecular forces that allows them to predict the physical properties of materials. They also learn important chemical concepts used to take a chemical process from the researcher’s bench through to industrial production. By studying energy, rates and equilibria, learners can suggest how reaction conditions can be chosen to maximise the profitability of an industrial process. They also learn about industrial analytical chemistry techniques, such as volumetric analysis and chromatography.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

Chemical changes and structure: periodicity; structure and bonding; oxidising and reducing agents
Nature’s chemistry: systematic carbon chemistry; alcohols; carboxylic acids; esters; fats and oils; soaps; detergents and emulsions; proteins; oxidation of food; fragrances; skin care
Chemistry in society: getting the most from reactants; controlling the rate; chemical energy; equilibria; chemical analysis

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Recording detailed observations & collecting data and selecting, processing & presenting information
Making predictions based on evidence/information and processing information
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 120 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 30 minutes.

The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts up to 2 hours and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation. The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related chemistry knowledge and understanding at Higher level. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful candidates at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Biochemist Aromatherapist Adult Nurse Ambulance Paramedic

Anatomical pathology technician Biologist Biomedical Scientist

Medical Herbalist Microbiologist Brewery Worker Veterinary Nurse

Advanced Higher Chemistry

Course Rationale

The purpose of the Course is to build on the Higher Chemistry Course and to continue to develop the underlying theories of chemistry and the practical skills used in the chemistry laboratory. The Course also serves to equip all learners with an understanding of the impact of chemistry on everyday life, and with the knowledge and skills to be able to reflect critically on scientific publications and media reports concerning chemistry.

Course Content

2 Areas of Study

Inorganic and Physical Chemistry: Electromagnetic radiation and atomic spectra; Atomic orbitals, electronic configurations and the Periodic Table; Transition metals; Chemical equilibrium; Reaction feasibility; Kinetics
Organic Chemistry and Instrumental Analysis: Molecular orbitals; Molecular structure; Stereo chemistry; Synthesis; Experimental determination of structure; Pharmaceutical chemistry;

Skills

Planning and designing chemical experiments/investigations, using reference material and including risk assessments to test a hypothesis or to illustrate particular effects
Carrying out complex experiments in chemistry safely, recording systematic detailed observations and collecting data
Selecting information from a variety of sources and presenting detailed information appropriately in a variety of forms & communicating chemical findings/information fully and effectively
Processing and analysing chemical information/data
Making reasoned predictions from a range of evidence/information & drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Critically evaluating experimental procedures by identifying sources of uncertainty, suggesting and implementing improvements

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 110 marks. This question paper lasts 3 hours.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions. It will assess scientific inquiry skills and analytical thinking skills.

Project

This is worth 25 marks. The purpose of the project is to allow the learner to carry out an in-depth investigation of a chemistry topic and produce a project–report.

Progression

Successful learners at Advanced Higher level can progress to science & medical-related Higher Education

Career Pathways

Biochemist Aromatherapist Adult Nurse Ambulance Paramedic

Anatomical pathology technician Biologist Biomedical Scientist Medical Herbalist

Microbiologist Brewery Worker Veterinary Nurse

National 5 Physics

Course Rationale

The National 5 Physics course gives candidates an insight into the underlying nature of our world and its place in the universe. It covers a range of applications of the relationships that have been discovered through experiment and calculation, including those used in modern technology. An experimental and investigative approach is used to develop knowledge and understanding of physics concepts. The course is also available at National 4 level.

Course Content

6 Areas of Study

Dynamics: vectors and scalars; velocity–time graphs; acceleration; Newton’s laws; energy; projectile motion
Space: space exploration; cosmology
Electricity: electrical charge carriers; potential difference (voltage); Ohm’s law; practical electrical and electronic circuits; electrical power
Properties of matter: specific heat capacity; specific latent heat; gas laws and the kinetic model
Waves: wave parameters and behaviours; electromagnetic spectrum; refraction of light
Radiation: nuclear radiation

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Selecting, processing and presenting information appropriately & communicating findings/information
Making predictions based on evidence/information
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 135 marks. This question paper lasts 2 hours 30 minutes.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts 1 hour and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation.
The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related physics knowledge and understanding at Level 5. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful candidates at National 5 level can progress to Higher in S5 or S6.
Successful candidates at National 4 level can progress to National 5 in S5 or S6.

Career Pathways

Aerospace Engineer Air Traffic Controller Airline Pilot Astronaut

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Astronomer Biotechnologist Automotive Engineer

Higher Physics

Course Rationale

The course develops scientific understanding of issues relating to physics. It enables learners to gain an in-depth knowledge of concepts in physics, and to develop confidence in the skills of scientific inquiry. Learners develop their ability to describe and interpret physical phenomena using mathematical skills, and practice scientific methods of investigation from which general relationships are derived and explored. Learners gain a deeper insight into the structure of the subject, and reinforce and extend their knowledge and understanding of the concepts of physics.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

Our dynamic universe: motion — equations and graphs; forces, energy and power; collisions, explosions, and impulse; gravitation; special relativity; the expanding Universe
Particles and waves: forces on charged particles; the Standard Model; nuclear reactions; inverse square law; wave-particle duality; interference; spectra; refraction of light
Electricity: monitoring and measuring AC; current, potential difference, power, and resistance; electrical sources and internal resistance; capacitors; semiconductors and p-n junctions

Skills

Planning or designing experiments to test given hypotheses or to illustrate particular effects, including safety measures
Recording detailed observations & collecting data and selecting, processing & presenting information
Making predictions based on evidence/information and quantifying uncertainty
Drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Evaluating experimental procedures & suggesting improvements to experiments/practical investigations

Course Assessment

Question Paper

This is worth 155 marks. This question paper lasts 3 hours.
The question paper has two sections: Section 1 (objective test) worth 25 marks & Section 2 containing restricted and extended response questions.

Assignment

This is worth 20 marks. This paper lasts 2 hours and is completed in March following 8 hours of preparation.
The purpose of the assignment is to assess the application of skills of scientific inquiry and related physics knowledge and understanding at Higher level. The Assignment has two stages: Research and Report.

Progression

Successful learners at Higher level can progress to Advanced Higher in S6.

Career Pathways

Aerospace Engineer Air Traffic Controller Airline Pilot Astronaut

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Astronomer Biotechnologist Automotive Engineer

Advanced Higher Physics

Course Rationale

The purpose of the Course is to build on the Higher Physics Course and to use their mathematical knowledge and skills to analyse and solve problems in real-life contexts. The investigative and higher-order thinking skills developed throughout the Course will give learners opportunities to contribute to team working and to working more independently.

Course Content

3 Areas of Study

Rotational Motion and Astrophysics: Kinematic relationships; Angular motion; Rotational dynamics; Gravitation; General relativity; Stellar physics
Quanta and Waves: Introduction to quantum theory; Particles from space; Simple harmonic motion; Waves; Interference; Polarisation
Electromagnetism: Fields; Circuits; Electromagnetic radiation

Skills

Planning and designing physics experiments/investigations, using reference material and including risk assessments to test a hypothesis or to illustrate particular effects
Carrying out complex experiments in physics safely, recording systematic detailed observations and collecting data
Selecting information from a variety of sources and presenting detailed information appropriately in a variety of forms & communicating physics findings/information fully and effectively
Processing and analysing physics information/data
Making reasoned predictions from a range of evidence/information & drawing valid conclusions and giving explanations supported by evidence/justification
Critically evaluating experimental procedures by identifying sources of uncertainty, suggesting and implementing improvements

Course Assessment

Question Paper

Project

This is worth 30 marks. The purpose of the project is to allow the learner to carry out an in-depth investigation of a physics topic and produce a project–report.