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This course is optional
What will you study in this course?
What will you study in this course?
Overview
Electronics brings together elements of technology, science and mathematics and applies these to real-world challenges.
The course provides progression from experiences and outcomes in craft, design, engineering and graphics, and in science. It provides a solid foundation for those considering further study or a career in electronics, electrical engineering and related disciplines.
The course also provides a valuable complementary practical experience for those studying engineering science, physics or other science courses.
The electronics industry is vital to everyday life in our society and plays a major role in the economy. It contributes not only to manufacturing, but to other sectors such as finance, telecommunications, material processing, oil extraction, weather forecasting and renewable energy.
Within all of these sectors, a wide range of job opportunities are available for people with skills in electronics.
The National 5 Practical Electronics course provides a broad practical introduction to electronics.
The course encourages candidates to become responsible and creative in their use of technologies and to develop attributes such as flexibility, enthusiasm, perseverance, reliability and confidence
Circuit Design
In this area, candidates develop an understanding of key electrical concepts and electronic components. Candidates analyse electronic problems, design solutions to these problems and explore issues relating to electronics.
Circuit Simulation
In this area, candidates use simulation software to assist in the design, construction and testing of circuits and systems and to investigate their behaviour.
Circuit Construction
In this area, candidates gain experience in assembling a range of electronic circuits, using permanent and non-permanent methods. They develop skills in practical wiring and assembly techniques, carrying out testing and evaluating functionality.
Where does this course lead to?
Where does this course lead to?
Progression from the course is to an alternative Science or Technical Subject. You may also wish to do STEM Leader as an alternative on your pathway.
The qualification can also lead to Jobs, further education at College or Apprenticeships.
Course methodology
Course methodology
The following provides a broad overview of the subject skills, knowledge and understanding developed in the course:
♦ awareness of safe working practices in electronics
♦ analysing electronic problems and designing solutions to these problems
♦ simulating, testing and evaluating solutions to electronic problems
♦ skills in using a range of test equipment
♦ constructing electronic circuits using permanent (soldering) and non-permanent methods ♦ knowledge and understanding of the systems approach to electronics, including sub-systems
♦ knowledge and understanding of the use of concepts and principles associated with a range of electronic and electromagnetic components and circuits ♦ knowledge and understanding of combinational logic
♦ understanding of key electrical concepts — current, voltage, resistance, power, analogue/digital, capacitance, magnetic effect of current
♦ applying electronic knowledge and skills in a range of contexts
Assessment in this course
Assessment in this course
Exam Question Paper - 60 marks
The purpose of the question paper is to assess breadth, challenge and application of skills, knowledge and understanding from across the course. The question paper also assesses inquiry skills and analytical thinking skills. The question paper gives candidates the opportunity to demonstrate the following skills, knowledge and understanding by: ♦ making accurate statements ♦ describing information, providing explanations and integrating knowledge ♦ applying knowledge of electronics to new situations, interpreting information and solving problems ♦ selecting information ♦ presenting information appropriately in a variety of forms ♦ processing information (using calculations and units, where appropriate) ♦ making predictions based on evidence/information
The question paper has a total of 60 marks. This is scaled to 30 marks and is worth 30% of the overall marks for course assessment.
Practical activity - 70 marks
The practical activity assesses candidates’ ability to apply electronic knowledge and skills to solve an appropriately challenging practical problem, and is designed to allow candidates to demonstrate their ability to work independently. This component allows assessment of skills which cannot be assessed through the question paper, for example circuit simulation, construction and testing. Practical activity overview The practical activity gives candidates an opportunity to demonstrate the following skills, knowledge and understanding: ♦ analysing a problem ♦ designing an electronic solution to the problem ♦ simulating a solution to the problem ♦ constructing a solution to the problem ♦ applying safe working practices ♦ testing the solution ♦ reporting on and evaluating the solution
The practical activity has 70 marks and is worth 70% of the overall marks for course assessment. The practical activity enables clear demonstration of the application of knowledge and skills from across the course.
Guidelines for the practical activity include questions/tasks/prompts which lead candidates through the task in clear stages.
Marks are awarded for: ♦ analysis and design ♦ simulating a solution ♦ construction using safe working practices ♦ testing the solution ♦ reporting on and evaluating the solution Evidence must include: ♦ the completed solution ♦ a record of progress through the activity (such as an informal log or blog produced by the candidate) ♦ a short report on the testing of the solution (in written, electronic or oral form)
The practical activity has a total of 70 marks.
Marks are awarded for:
♦ analysis and design 7 marks
♦ designing and simulating a solution 7 marks
♦ construction using safe working practices 44 marks
♦ testing the solution 7 marks
♦ reporting on the solution 5 marks
Additional Information
Additional Information
Info on careers and pathways can be found at Planit: https://www.planitplus.net/nationals/View/245
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