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OCR Level 1/2 Cambridge National Certificate in Science in the Workplace (600/7042/0)
Who is this qualification for?
This qualification is for students aged 14–16 who wish to develop applied knowledge and practical skills in
Science in the Workplace.
What will the student study as part of this qualification?
All students will study two topics.
The first topic of study is about how scientists use analytical techniques to collect data.
Students will cover:
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the principles of good laboratory practice, including choice of measuring equipment, the
importance of calibration, risk assessment, data recording procedures and the concepts and
principles of scientific research
how to separate and identify the substances present in a mixture
how to examine and record features of samples
how to use tests to identify cations and anions in samples
how to determine the concentration of an acid or base using titration
how to determine the concentration of coloured substances in solution.
The second topic of study is about how scientific data is used.
Students will cover:
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how scientists obtain scientific information
how scientists analyse and process information
how scientists evaluate information
communicating scientific information.
In addition, students will have a choice of three optional topics to study from the following areas:
 Environmental science – students study ecosystems, the effects of human activities and natural
events on the environment, how human activities and natural events can be monitored at both
local and global levels, and monitoring methods.
 The science of fitness and health – students study the human body systems including the
musculoskeletal system, the effects of health and fitness levels on the body, how health and
fitness can be increased by following a fitness programme, and measuring fitness and
performance.
 The science of production – students will study the bulk chemicals important to society and their
uses, e.g. fertilisers and soaps. They will also study the factors that affect the growth of plant
crops and the types of useful products made by microorganisms.
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations is a Company Limit ed by Guarantee. Registered in England. Registered office: 1 Hills Road, Cambridge CB1 2EU. Registered company number: 348 4466. OCR is an exempt charity.
What knowledge and skills will the student develop as part of this qualification and how might these be
of use and value in further studies?
In the first two topics, students will develop skills in the techniques that can be used in the collection of data and
its analysis, interpretation and evaluation. They will also develop an understanding of how the techniques used
by professional scientists increase the accuracy, precision and validity of the data collected. Knowledge and skills
will be developed in analytical techniques used by scientists. The set of underpinning knowledge, understanding
and skills students develop will help them to go on to complete their other topics.
Depending on the options chosen, a student will develop a range of additional skills and knowledge relating to
topics including:
 environmental science – students will increase their understanding of ecosystems and how they are affected
by human and natural events
 fitness and health – students will increase their understanding of the human body system and its structure,
and the functions and control of the circulatory and respiratory systems; they will know the consequences of
lifestyle choices such as diet, activity levels and smoking for health and fitness
 the science of production in food, agriculture, pharmaceutical and fuel industries; students will know about
and understand the importance of chemicals such as fertilisers and soap, and how the use of fertilisers
impacts on crop growth.
The Cambridge National in Science in the Workplace equips students with sound, scientific knowledge and skills
for everyday use and work. It develops knowledge appropriate for a wide range of professions.
The qualification develops scientific knowledge that will support the further advanced study of science. It will
enable students to undertake further scientific study with a sound understanding of how science is applied in
everyday life.
Which subjects will complement this course?
The Cambridge National Certificate in Science in the Workplace is the same size as a GCSE and will take 120
guided learning hours to deliver.
The qualification is complemented by a wide range of GCSEs including Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Maths. It
can be delivered alongside other vocational courses in subjects such as Engineering, particularly focusing on the
environment and the production of scientific elements, and Health and Social Care.
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England. Registered office: 1 Hills Road, Cambridge CB1 2EU. Registered company number: 3484466. OCR is an exempt charity.