Science and Technology
Level 4

General Information

This NPA has been designed to provide a qualification which will equip you with a range of skills and knowledge in key areas of science. These skills will be beneficial for progression to further qualifications and would also be considered as transferable skills that will travel with you wherever your future lies.

The NPA in Science and Technology at SCQF level 4 will provide you with knowledge and understanding of biotechnology, chemistry and physics as well as practical laboratory skills in each area. You will use a variety of scientific techniques incorporating a range of equipment which will aid and enhance your learning experience and development.

Aims

The specific aims of the group award are to:

  • Develop knowledge and understanding of biotechnology, chemistry and physics.

  • Develop knowledge and understanding of science and its applications in relation to everyday life.

  • Prepare learners for progression to qualifications at SCQF level 5 in science and associated STEM areas.

  • Develop skills in good laboratory practice.

  • Develop an understanding of science health and safety practices.

Assessment

This NPA in Science and Technology will be assessed via a combination of practical and knowledge assessments under closed- and open-book assessment conditions.

To achieve this group award you must pass all the units shown below:

Biotechnological Industries

Physics: Electricity and Energy

Chemistry in society

Science Practical and Investigation Skills

Information on Units

The following is a summary of the content of each unit:

Biotechnological Industries

This unit is designed to provide you with an introduction to current biotechnological industries. You will also develop an awareness of the environmental impact of industry-derived waste material and its safe disposal.

Physics: Electricity and Energy

This unit covers the key areas of generation of electricity, electrical power, electromagnetism, practical electrical and electronic circuits, gas laws and the kinetic model.

Chemistry in Society

This unit covers the key areas of metals and alloys, materials, fertilisers, nuclear chemistry and chemical analysis.

Science Practical and Investigation Skills

This unit is designed to introduce you to scientific practical techniques. The unit will develop your practical skills in performing scientific experiments and develop your skills in processing and reporting the results obtained. You will also develop skills in planning and conducting a scientific investigation.

Overview

The content of the group award has been designed to provide you with an opportunity for:

  • progression within the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework

  • achievement of a national group award that recognises existing skills and competences in science

  • development opportunities in core and essential skills, specifically to:

— Communication

— ICT

— Numeracy

— Working with Others

— Problem Solving

— Employability skills

  • preparation for progression to SCQF level 5 in science or a related discipline.

  • development of a range of key skills that are aligned to industry standards.