How Science Works

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The specifications for the new Edexcel science subjects state that How Science Works (HSW) is a newly introduced section of the GCE Science criteria, that builds on from the Key Stage 4 Programme of Study for science. The concept of HSW isn't quite new however, it's just that HSW now plays a major role in testing students' scientific knowledge.

I have found quite a nifty definition of what HSW means from this article. Here is the meaning:

So what does "how science works" actually mean? In addition to teaching the "facts" of science, teachers are now required to teach students things like "there are some questions that science cannot currently answer, and some that science cannot address", and that scientific and technological developments have their "benefits, drawbacks and risks".

Grades!

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Right-o! This post will address marks/grades and UMS.

Marks/Grades

Your AS grades count for 50% of your total A Level grade. The same holds true for your A2 grades. For the science subjects (and maybe most other subjects), you will be graded out of 600 UMS marks. UMS marks are the marks you obtain AFTER your paper has been marked. Your raw score is converted to a corresponding UMS score. Your grade depends on what UMS score you get.

You will always need the follow percentage UMS scores to get the matching grade:

80% - A

70% - B

60% - C

50% - D

40% - E

The beginning...

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Hi! Welcome to my blog.

I have just finished my two-year Advanced Level course and I have decided to make a blog to help others who will be doing A Levels. I have a passion for science and most of the help I intend to give will be based on science subjects (specifically Biology and Chemistry). I do not like Mathematics or Physics and so I do not feel confident in giving advice in these fields. I'm no expert either. I am going to start university this fall and I really hope that I have a wonderful time there!

All my subjects were taken through the Edexcel examining body and so most of the content I post here will reflect that. I am in no way affiliated with Edexcel. I do not own anything that is of the 'Edexcel name'. I am simply a 'tutor' who intends to share information on two specifications created by said exam board.

There are many resources on the internet for A Level subjects. I particular find The Student Room to be very helpful. As time progresses, I will post links to more useful websites. The A Level section of 'TSR' will be of most interest to you if you wish to primarily utilise the website for academic reasons. I do suggest that you create an account there as you will gain access to a plethora of resources! You will find many helpful notes and recent past papers and markschemes there. I will keep you posted with what's relevant to your Biology and Chemistry specifications.