National 5 Practical Cooking

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This Course aims to further develop learners’ life skills and enhance their personal effectiveness in terms of cookery and to provide a set of skills for those who wish to progress to further study in the hospitality context. In preparing learners for life, the Course anticipates their future needs in that it enables them to learn how to plan, prepare and cook food for themselves and others. It also develops organisational skills, which have an application in a wide variety of contexts.

Candidates’ 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.

Candidates develop 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.

Assessment 

There are three assessment components:

an assignment (a time plan) and a practical activity (preparing and cooking a three course meal) and a question paper. The assignment and practical activity make up 75% of the marks and the exam paper the remaining 25%. Both the assignment and the written paper are externally marked.

WHAT WILL MY HOME COMMITMENT BE FOR THIS COURSE?

Pupils must arrive in class prepared to participate.  This will include:

· Bringing an appropriate container to transport food home safely.

· A means of tying hair back if longer than jaw-length.

· A variety of homework will be given in order to consolidate learning. Pupils will be expected to undertake relevant reading, revision and practice skills at home. 

IS HOSPITALITY FOR ME?

You will enjoy this subject if: 

· you enjoy cooking

· you enjoy practical learning activities

· you are keen to develop your skills in the kitchen before you leave home

· you are keen to find out about healthy food and ensuring a more sustainable lifestyle