Full Time AS Level Environmental Science (2389)

MODE OF STUDY FT
FE LEVEL 3
DURATION AS 1 year
START DATE(S) September 2009
DAY(S)/TIME(S) OFFERED Students can expect to be involved in learning activities across most days of the week between 9.00am and 5.00pm
NUMBER OF TEACHING HOURS 5 hours per week
TOTAL FEE
TOTAL OVERSEAS FEE
ADDITIONAL COSTS There may be some additional expenses for materials and field trips.
AWARDING/VALIDATION BODY AQA
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants will have met one of the following entry requirements:-

5 GCSEs at grades A-C including English Language at grade C; or
Students who achieved at least a merit in GNVQ or BTEC First Diploma qualifications alongside at least a grade C in English Language GCSE will be considered for AS levels on a case by case basis.

The following requirements apply for Environmental Science:
Double C in GCSE Science or C grades in individual Science subjects and C grade in GCSE Maths
PROGRAMME CONTENT/STRUCTURE
Students will study the following modules:

MODULE 1 - Energy, Atmosphere and Hydrosphere
The module introduces students to the idea that life on planet Earth depends on a range of interacting systems and focuses on the importance of the atmosphere and hydrosphere. Energy transfer within these two environments is explored by considering the fate of incoming solar radiation. The study of the need for energy and water by humans is linked to possible environmental consequences; for instance, the enhanced Greenhouse Effect and global climate change.

MODULE 2 - The Lithosphere
The Lithosphere provides resources for life on Earth (see Modules 1 and 3) and consists of the various components of the Earths crust:rocks, soils, minerals and the land. A non-sustainable exploitation of these resources can result in the exhaustion of reserves and the production of waste.

MODULE 3 - The Biosphere
The module introduces the candidate to an appreciation of how the unique conditions on Earth (see Modules 1 and 2) enable living organisms to exist, and leads to a study of the essential life processes, including energy capture, use and transfer, which maintain life.

The final section deals with the need for biodiversity and explores some of the methods and strategies of conservation.

The College offers a wide range of AS level subjects to choose from - so students can pick, with support from college staff, the combination that best suits their needs. Most students will start by taking between 3 - 4 AS levels before deciding which subjects to continue with in order to gain the full A level. The main things students should think about when deciding which subjects to take are their interests, what they are good at and what they might need for employment or progressing onto Higher Education in the future. Students on the AS/A level programme are supported by a strong tutorial element including careers education and the development of their personal and study skills.

AS or A2 subjects ( usually just one) may be taken by suitably qualified BTEC students, subject to timetabling constraints.


PROGRESSION/CAREERS OPPORTUNITIES
AS and A levels are a traditional route into University for 16-18 year olds. They are also seen by employers as indicators of a potential employee's intelligence, maturity and self organisation skills.

Most A Level students progress into full-time employment or onto Higher Education.

Opportunities to study Higher Education (HE)qualifications at Croydon Higher Education College are available.
ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE 3 Exams
EXCURSIONS / WORK EXPERIENCE Field trips
READING LISTS See handbook