Science in Society AS

This is an exciting new course that examines topical scientific issues.

Is it just for people doing science A Levels?

No. The course is designed to be easily accessible to science and non-science students alike - it tackles questions that are of interest to everyone.

Why choose Science in Society?

• as a means of broadening the curriculum for those whose interests lie mainly in the arts or humanities
• to give those studying science the opportunity to reflect on their specialist studies in a wider context
• Universities want students who know how to research and present their arguments. That is what Science in Society is all about.
• The course develops an important range of skills that go beyond those required for a traditional science A level.

 With Science in Society there is a much greater emphasis on developing the skills required to make informed judgements about important issues in the world of science and beyond:

"If we teach only the products of science – no matter how useful and even inspiring they may be – without communicating its critical method, how can the average person possibly distinguish science from pseudoscience"
Carl Sagan

To support your ambition to get on the right course at university. It is relevant to careers as diverse as:

• medicine
• journalism
• media
• law
• science and engineering
• management and politics

...they’re just some of the careers which students taking this course aspire to.

How will the subject be taught?

The course allows for a wider range of teaching and learning approaches than are often used in a traditional science course. Students will have the opportunity to:

• take part in whole class debates and arguments about scientific issues
• engage in small group projects
• provoke class discussions about recent controversial or sensitive topics in the media
• use simulations and participate in games linked to the subject matter
• take part in role play activities
• carry out independent research on topics of their own choice
• present findings to groups of other students
• learn how to critically assess their own work and evaluate the work of their peers

You will read, research, discuss and explore real issues, using a variety of media such as the Internet, newspapers and TV programmes to inform your opinions.

AS Course Details

Unit 1 – SCIS1

Exploring key scientific issues

60% if AS, 30% of A Level
2 hours written paper
90 marks (120 UMS)

A number of compulsory structured questions, including comprehension data analysis and data response questions. Some of these questions will require longer answers in continuous prose.

Available in June only

Unit 2 – SCIS2

Reading and writing about science
40% of AS, 20% of A Level

Internal assessment
60 marks (80 UMS)
Two pieces of writing:

• A critical account of scientific readings
• A study of a topical scientific issue

Available in June only