PD - QUS - 12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14 2
PD - QUS - 12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14 2
INTERNATIONAL
FOUNDATION
DIPLOMA FOR
HIGHER
EDUCATION
STUDIES
(L3IFDHES)
NCC Education
Qualification Unit Specification
2023
LEVEL 3 INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION DIPLOMA
FOR HIGHER EDUCATION STUDIES (IFDHES)
Modification History
V1.13 March 2021 – updated ITB and ITAE syllabus tables, LO/AC
tables, grade descriptors, assessment type tables and
assessment method in Section 3.2
V1.14 July 2023 - updated wording of entry requirements
Page 2 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Contents
1. About NCC Education..................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Why choose this qualification?................................................................................ 4
2. Structure of the L3IFDHES Qualification...................................................................... 5
3. Assessment for the qualification .................................................................................. 6
3.1 Assessment objectives............................................................................................ 6
3.2 Overview of Qualification Unit Assessment ............................................................ 6
4. Administration ................................................................................................................. 7
4.1 Assessment Cycles ................................................................................................. 7
4.2 Language of Assessment ....................................................................................... 7
4.3 Candidates .............................................................................................................. 7
4.4 Qualification and Unit Entry Requirements ............................................................. 7
4.5 Eligibility Period ....................................................................................................... 7
4.6 Resits....................................................................................................................... 7
5. Syllabus ............................................................................................................................ 8
5.1 Developing English Language Skills....................................................................... 8
5.2 English for Academic Purposes ............................................................................ 13
5.3 Advanced English Language Skills....................................................................... 16
5.4 Study and Communication Skills .......................................................................... 19
5.5 Culture Studies ...................................................................................................... 22
5.6 Foundation Mathematics ....................................................................................... 24
5.7 Introduction to Computer Science ........................................................................ 27
5.8 Introduction to Programming................................................................................. 33
5.9 Introduction to Business........................................................................................ 36
5.10 Introduction to Accounting and Economics .......................................................... 39
5.11. Further Mathematics ............................................................................................. 42
5.12 Physics .................................................................................................................. 48
5.13 Chemistry .............................................................................................................. 54
5.14 Biology ................................................................................................................... 63
6. Results and Certificates ............................................................................................... 67
7 Further Information ....................................................................................................... 68
8. Appendix 1 Grade Descriptors .................................................................................... 69
Page 3 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
1. About NCC Education
NCC Education is a UK awarding body, active in the UK and internationally. Originally part of
the UK National Computing Centre, NCC Education started offering IT qualifications in 1976
and from 1997 developed its Higher Education portfolio to include Business qualifications, IT
qualifications for school children and a range of Foundation qualifications.
With Centres in over forty countries, four international offices and academic managers
worldwide, NCC Education strives to employ the latest technologies for learning, assessment
and support. NCC Education is regulated and quality assured by Ofqual (the Office of
Qualifications and Examinations Regulation, see www.ofqual.gov.uk), the English
qualifications, examinations and assessments regulator.
NCC Education’s Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is:
https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
The Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies syllabus
and assessment is suitable for students aged 16-19 as well as adult learners.
• Recognised and valued by many universities, both in the UK and in other countries.
There are over fifty university progression routes to UK and overseas universities.
For more details of the universities that successful L3IFDHES candidates can
progress to, see www.nccedu.com
Page 4 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
2. Structure of the L3IFDHES Qualification
Qualification Title, Credits, Units
NCC Education Level 3 International Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies, 120
credits.
Total Qualification Time: 1,200 hours
Core Units
English for Study and
Developing English Advanced English
Academic Purposes Communication
Language Skills Language Skills
(TQT: 100 hours / Skills
(TQT: 300 hours/ (TQT: 200 hours /
10 credits) (TQT: 200 hours/
30 credits) 20 credits)
20 credits)
Foundation
Culture Studies
Mathematics
(TQT: 100 hours /
(TQT: 100 hours /
10 credits)
10 credits)
Elective Units
Business Units Computing Units
Introduction to
Introduction to Introduction to Introduction to
Accounting and
Business Computer Science Programming
Economics
(TQT: 100 hours / (TQT: 100 hours / (TQT: 100 hours /
(TQT: 100 hours /
10 credits) 10 credits) 10 credits)
10 credits)
Engineering Units Health Sciences Units
Introduction to
Further Further
Chemistry Accounting and
Mathematics Mathematics
(TQT: 100 hours / Economics
(TQT: 100 hours / (TQT: 100 hours /
10 credits) (TQT: 100 hours /
10 credits 10 credits)
10 credits)
Page 5 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
3. Assessment for the qualification
3.1 Assessment objectives
All assessment for the qualification is intended to allow candidates to demonstrate they have
met the relevant Learning Outcomes. Moreover, NCC Education’s assessment is appropriate
to the assessment criteria as stated in this specification and is regularly reviewed to ensure it
remains consistent with the specification.
An examination is a time-constrained assessment that will take place on a specified date and
usually in an NCC Education Centre. An assignment requires candidates to produce a written
response to a set of one or more tasks, meeting a deadline imposed by the Centre. Local
Examinations and Global Assignments are marked by the centre.
The overall unit mark is computed from the weighted mean of its components. The pass mark
for a unit is 40%.
NCC Education Centres can provide candidates with a specimen assessment paper as well
as a limited number of past examination and assignment papers.
Past examination and assignment papers may be made available only following results release
for the corresponding assessment cycle. Results release dates and past examination and
assignment release dates can be found in the Activity Schedules area of Connect, NCC
Education’s student registration system.
Page 6 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4. Administration
4.1 Assessment Cycles
1. Four assessment cycles are offered throughout the year during Spring, Summer,
Autumn and Winter.
Examination dates and assignment submission deadlines are published in the NCC Education
Activity Schedule, which is provided to Centres by Centre Support. It is also available on
Connect, NCC Education’s student registration system.
The Activity Schedule also gives the key dates for registering candidates for assessment
cycles, the dates when Centres can expect the assessment documentation and, ultimately, the
assessment results from NCC Education.
4.3 Candidates
NCC Education’s qualifications are available to those Centre candidates who satisfy the entry
requirements as stated in this specification.
4.6 Resits
If a candidate fails an assessment, they will be provided with opportunities to resit during the
eligibility period.
Page 7 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5. Syllabus
5.1 Developing English Language Skills
Guided Total
Learning 180 hours Qualification 300 hours
Hours Time
3. Be able to write factual, 3.1 Demonstrate the ability to write a summary of information given or
descriptive and explanatory researched
texts, accurately using a 3.2 Demonstrate the ability to write in a range of different styles
range of linguistic structures appropriate to tasks
and vocabulary, to complete 3.3 Demonstrate the ability to accurately use different linguistic
clearly defined tasks structures to complete written tasks on a range of familiar topics
3.4 Demonstrate the ability to organise, develop and link points together
for a range of clearly defined writing tasks
4. Be able to apply a range 4.1 Demonstrate the ability to pick out key information when listening to
of listening strategies in a range of speakers
order to understand spoken 4.2 Understand the main points of a linguistically complex lecture or talk
language on familiar and 4.3 Demonstrate the ability to predict the content of a conversation or
some unfamiliar topics speech on a general topic, based on listening to a brief introduction or
extract
4.4 Demonstrate the ability to utilise their listening skills in order to
participate meaningfully in discussion of familiar issues
Page 8 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus
Unit No Title Proportion Content
Intermediate Level
1 Introductions 1/24 • Present continuous and present
6 hours of class simple
time • Forming questions
5 hours of private • Everyday activities
study • Letter writing
2 Memory 1/24 • Past simple and past continuous
6 hours of class tenses
time • Used to
5 hours of private • Writing about a memorable event
study • Discussing past events
3 Food and Family 1/24 • Understanding opinions
6 hours of class • Future forms
time • Eating in and eating out
5 hours of private • Adjectives of personality
study • Writing about a person
4 Money and 1/24 • Present perfect and past simple
Charity 6 hours of class tenses
time • For and since
5 hours of private • Vocabulary related to money
study • Strong adjectives
Review Review 1 1 hour of class • Review the language learned in
time Topics 1 – 4
1 hour of private • Formative progress test
study
5 Transport and 1/24 • Comparatives and superlatives
Places 6 hours of class • Linking
time • Agreeing and disagreeing
5 hours of private • Vocabulary related to transport
study • Presentations about cities
• Articles
• Designing a race around a city
6 Rules for Success 1/24 • Modal verbs
7 hours of class • Relative pronouns
time • -ed –ing adjectives
6 hours of private • Phone language
study • Sentence stress
7 Sport 1/24 • Past tenses
7 hours of class • Usually and used to
time • Vocabulary related to sport
6 hours of private • Pronouncing the letter ‘s’
study • Finding the meaning of key words
8 Appearing on 1/24 • Passives
Film 7 hours of class • Modals of deduction
time • Vocabulary related to film, TV and
appearances
Page 9 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
6 hours of private • Film reviews
study
Review Review 2 1 hour of class • Review the language learned in
time Topics 5 – 8
1 hour of private • Formative progress test
study
9 At Home and at 1/24 • Conditional sentences
School 6 hours of class • Future time clauses
time • Vocabulary related to home and
6 hours of private school
study • Comprehension questions
• Sentence stress
10 Working and 1/24 • Reported speech
Shopping 7 hours of class • Gerunds and infinitives
time • Letters of Complaint
6 hours of private • Expressing an opinion
study • Agreeing and disagreeing with an
argument.
11 The Modern 1/24 • Quantifiers
World 7 hours of class • Word forms
time • Phrasal verbs
6 hours of private • Hypothetical sentences with if
study • For and against arguments
• Linking words
• Planning, organising and writing an
essay
• Analysing a writer’s opinion
• Summarising a text
12 Fame and Infamy 1/24 • Relative clauses
6 hours of class • Question tags
time • Vocabulary about crime
6 hours of private • Writing about a famous person
study • Skimming a text for key information
• Crime reports
Page 10 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4 hours of private • Working out meaning from context
study • Use of dictionaries
15 Varieties of 1/24 • Narrative tenses
Writing 8 hours of class • Adverbs
time • Word stress and intonation
4 hours of private • Writing about an exciting event in
study the past
• Introduction to IELTS writing
Page 11 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4 hours of private • Vocabulary about the body
study • Making arguments
• IELTS speaking practice
22 Reporting Stories 1/24 • The passive
8 hours of class • Reporting verbs
time • Vocabulary about crime and the
4 hours of private media
study • Formal and informal letters
• Word formation
• IELTS reading practice
23 The Urban World 1/24 • Contrast and purpose
8 hours of class • Uncountable and plural nouns
time • Prefixes and suffixes
4 hours of private • Listening for gist and details
study • Presenting information about a city
• Writing travel reviews
• IELTS reading practice
24 Science 1/24 • Quantifiers
9 hours of class • Articles
time • Vocabulary about science
4 hours of private • Collocations
study • Describing data
• Giving presentations
Assessment Type
Local Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 12 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.2 English for Academic Purposes
Total
Guided Learning Hours 60 hours Qualification 100 hours
Time
Page 13 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus
Page 14 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
7 hours and 30 • Understanding the issue of plagiarism and
minutes of private how to reference a source
study • Considering thesis statements
• Considering how to respond to questions and
instructions in academic writing
• Understanding the paralinguistic features of a
lecture
• Examining the use of inference in lectures
• Understanding attitude and opinion in lectures
• Understanding how to deal with less-frequent
vocabulary
• Understanding how to use the contents and
index pages of a text
• Making inferences from written work
4 Achievements 1/5 Students focus on polishing their skills in
11 hours of class academic writing, reading and listening:
time • Organising details and examples in a written
7 hours and 30 text
minutes of private
study • Providing feedback on a piece of writing
• Considering paragraph divisions within a text
• Examining how referencing is used by
lecturers
• Considering the structure of academic
lectures
• Working out the meaning of unknown
vocabulary
• Practising intensive reading
• Considering the use of linking words in a text
• Practising note-taking techniques
5 Technology 1/5 Students focus on techniques for enhancing
12 hours of class their skills in academic writing, reading, and
time listening:
8 hours of private
• Examining techniques for adding and hiding
study
opinion in writing
• Considering the importance of proof reading
• Correcting written work based on criteria
• Developing a system of abbreviations for
notetaking
• Discovering how best to record new
vocabulary
• Finding further reading material on a subject
• Examining connotations and opinions in
writing
Assessment Type
Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 15 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.3 Advanced English Language Skills
Guided Total
Learning 120 hours Qualification 200 hours
Hours Time
3. Be able to write structured, factual, 3.1 Demonstrate the ability to write a clear and concise
descriptive and explanatory texts, summary of information given or researched
accurately using complex linguistic 3.2 Demonstrate the ability to write in a range of different
structures and vocabulary styles appropriate to tasks
3.3 Demonstrate the ability to accurately use a wide range
of linguistic structures to produce pieces of writing on a
range of familiar and some unfamiliar topics
3.4 Demonstrate the ability to organise, develop and link
points effectively in a range of written pieces of work
4. Be able to apply a range of listening 4.1 Demonstrate the ability to pick out specific details and
strategies in order to understand key information when listening to a range of speakers
lengthy predicable discussions, 4.2 Understand the main points and key details of a
factual presentations and more linguistically complex lecture or talk
abstract conversations 4.3 Demonstrate the ability to predict the content of a
conversation or speech, based on listening to a brief
Page 16 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
introduction or extract
4.4 Demonstrate the ability to utilise their listening skills in
order to participate meaningfully in discussion of a broad
range of issues
Syllabus
Unit No Title Proportion Content
Intermediate Level
1 Globalisation 1/12 • Note taking
10 hours of class • Vocabulary related to globalisation
time 6 hours 25 and the environment
minutes of private • Posters and leaflets
study • Debating
• Giving and understanding opinions
2 Personality 1/12 • have as auxiliary and main verb
10 hours of class • Discourse markers
time 6 hours 25 • Using a dictionary
minutes of private
study
3 Learning 1/12 • Narrative tenses
10 hours of class • Education systems
time 6 hours 25 • Word building: abstract nouns
minutes of private • Understanding accents
study • Reading exam practice
4 History in the 1/12 • Borrowed words
Making 10 hours of class • Adverbial expressions
time 6 hours 25 • Historical films
minutes of private • Reading for detail
study • Interviews and questionnaires
5 Sound and Print 1/12 • Speculation and deduction
10 hours of class • Adding emphasis
time 6 hours 25 • Inversion
minutes of private • Book and film reviews
study • Giving a presentation
Page 17 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
6 Time and Money 1/12 • Distancing and hedging
10 hours of class • Unreal past tenses
time 6 hours 25 • Vocabulary about time and money
minutes of private • Cohesive devices
study • Recognising accents • Designing a
race around a city
7 Changes 1/12 • Conditional sentences
10 hours of class • Compound adjectives
time 6 hours 25 • Giving a speech
minutes of private • Evaluating research
study • Writing a balanced essay
8 Interesting Ideas 1/12 • Permission, obligation and
10 hours of class necessity
time 6 hours 25 • Verbs of the senses
minutes of private • Writing a report
study • A letter of complaint
• IELTS writing
9 Mind and body 1/12 • Gerunds and infinitives
10 hours of class • Future plans
time 6 hours 25 • Vocabulary in context
minutes of private • Homophones
study • Writing a discursive essay
• IELTS speaking
10 Food 1/12 • Ellipsis
10 hours of class • Compound and possessive nouns
time 6 hours 25 • Vocabulary about food
minutes of private • Writing questions
study • An authentic lecture
11 Home and 1/12 • Adding emphasis
Hobbies 10 hours of class • Cleft sentences
time 6 hours 25 • Commonly confused words
minutes of private • Word building
study • Intonation
12 The 21st Century 1/12 • Future changes and technology
10 hours of class • Biographies
time 6 hours 25 • Vocabulary in context
minutes of private • Presentations
study • IELTS speaking
Assessment Type
Local Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 18 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.4 Study and Communication Skills
Total
Guided Learning
75 hours Qualification 200 hours
Hours
Time
Page 19 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4. Be able to produce a piece of 4.1 Create a timetabled plan to meet the
academic work suitable for this level, requirements of an academic assignment
following a drafting process 4.2 Check own work for errors
4.3 Evaluate own work against
criteria/requirements given
4.4 Develop sections of an assignment
towards a final draft
4.5 Demonstrate the correct use of academic
referencing
4.6 Present a completed piece of academic
work to others
5. Understand different learning styles 5.1 Explain the idea of multiple intelligences
5.2 Describe a range of learning styles
5.3 Identify own preferred learning style
5.4 Identify own study strengthes and
weaknesses
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Learning to • Learner styles and multiple intelligences
Learn • Self study methodology
• Time management
• Goal setting
• Self analysis and critical reflection
• Keeping a learner diary
Reading • Reading a textbook & note taking skills
Textbooks and • Using notes to write summaries
Note Taking
• Public Speaking skills & Peer assessment
• Learner diaries and study skills self-assessment
Note Taking in • Note taking in lectures
Lectures • Recognising key points
• Guessing meaning
• Editing and reviewing notes
• Planning a speech
• Public speaking practice and assessment
Library • Accessing the library and reading strategies
Research and • Note taking from books
Writing an
Essay • Essay planning and organising notes
• Public speaking practice and assessment
Page 20 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Journal-based • Journals and articles
Research for • Critical reading and analysing data
Essay Writing
• Describing data in an essay
• Academic Style
• Editing and proof reading
• Public speaking practice and assessment
Internet • Using the internet for research
Research for • Bibliographies and referencing
Essay Writing
• Plagiarism and paraphrasing
• Editing and checking work against criteria
• Including sufficient detail
• Public speaking practice and assessment
Writing a • Approaching a task and making an assignment strategy
Research • Understanding requirements and using criteria
Report
• Integrating evidence into a report
• Editing and proofreading
• Public speaking practice and assessment
Examinations • Writing summaries and reviewing notes
and • Preparing for exams
Assessment
• Time Management
• Stress and anxiety management
Assessment Type
Global Assignment (100%)
The assignment is broken into three sections:
• Learner Portfolio
• Note-taking and summary writing assignment
• Research project
See also Section 3 above
Page 21 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.5 Culture Studies
Page 22 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
What is • Definition of culture
Culture? • Aspects of culture
• Personal Cultural Identity
• Cultural Practice and unique aspects
Learning Outcome: 1
Subcultures • Definition of subculture
• Aspects of subcultures
• Comparisons between different cultural aspects
• Stereotypes
Learning Outcome: 1,3
Government • Basic types of political system
• Police and Crime
Learning Outcome: 1,3
Values • Personal, familial and societal values
• Common etiquette in different countries
• Common pastimes and the values associated with these
Learning Outcome: 1, 3, 4
Education • Different stages of education systems at home and abroad
Systems • Identifying universities in different places
Learning Outcome: 1, 2
Application to • Courses, subjects and methods of assessment at chosen universities
Higher • The university application process
Education
• Personal statements
Learning Outcome: 2
Work • Understanding different attitudes to work
• Work culture; organisational and management structures
• Cultural differences in international business
• Benefits of cultural diversity to an organisation
Learning Outcome: 1,3
Digital • Understanding social media, online retail and online news and its
Culture impact on culture
• Digital culture and disparity in access
• Positives/ negatives of life online on the individual
• Positives/ negatives of life online on society
Learning Outcome: 1, 4
Assessment Type
• Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 23 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.6 Foundation Mathematics
Total
Guided Learning Hours 50 hours Qualification 100 hours
Time
Page 24 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5. Understand the fundamentals of 5.1 Recognise integration as the inverse of
Integral Calculus differentiation
5.2 Recognise the constant of integration
5.3 Evaluate the constant of integration
5.4 Evaluate the definite integral
5.5 Calculate of the area under a curve
6. Understand Measures of Dispersion 6.1 Calculate the range, quartiles and
quantiles
6.2 Calculate the mean deviation
6.3 Calculate the variance
6.4 Calculate the standard deviation
7. Understand the fundamentals of 7.1 Calculate probability using the addition
Probability and multiplication rules
7.2 Calculate the probability of compound
events
7.3 Use tree diagrams to determine
probability
7.4 Calculate probabilities of permutations
and combinations
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Introduction to • Simplification of a range of algebraic expressions including those
Algebra involving powers
• Simplifying a range of algebraic expressions by multiplying and
dividing expressions
• Factorising algebraic expressions by using a range of techniques
• Simplify and solve a range of Algebraic Fractions
Learning Outcome: 1
Using Algebraic • Transposing formulae
Equations • Solving simple linear equations
• Solving simple quadratic equations
• Solving simultaneous equations
Learning Outcome: 2
Solving • Presenting a range of linear equations in graphical form
algebraic • Presenting a range of quadratic equations in graphical form
equations • Solving simultaneous equations using graphical forms
Using Graphs
Learning Outcome: 3
Page 25 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Introduction to • Using the principles of calculus to explain the rate of change of one
Differential variable in respect of another
Calculus • Calculation of the gradient of a curve using differentiation
• Plotting maximum and minimum turning points using graphical
means
• Identification of the maximum and minimum turning points using
differentiation
Learning Outcome: 4
Introduction to • Recognising the process of integration as the inverse of
Integral differentiation
Calculus • Recognition of the role played by the constant of integration
• Evaluation of the constant of integration
• Evaluation of the definite integral
• Calculation of the area under a curve
Learning Outcome: 5
Presentation of • Present data using tables, pie charts and bar charts
Data • Construct Frequency distributions
• Present data as histograms, ogives and time series graphs
Learning Outcome: 3
Beginning • Calculation of the arithmetic mean for a range of data samples
Statistics • Calculation of the arithmetic mean for a range of frequency
distributions
• Calculation of the arithmetic mean for grouped data
• Calculation of the modal value of data sets
• Calculation of the median value of data sets
Learning Outcomes: 2
Understanding • Calculation of the range, quartiles and quantiles
Dispersion • Calculation the mean deviation
• Calculation of the variance
• Calculation of the standard deviation
Learning Outcome: 6
Assessment Type
• Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 26 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.7 Introduction to Computer Science
Total
Guided Learning Hours 56 hours Qualification 100 hours
Time
Page 27 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
2. Understand the 2.1 Describe internal components of computer
characteristics of hardware hardware
components 2.2 Describe the components of a central processing
unit (CPU)
2.3 Describe the functions of a CPU
2.4 Explain the function of the fetch-decode-execute
cycle
2.5 Describe how hardware components
communicate with each other
2.6 Identify units of measurements of computer
storage
2.7 Describe a range of computer storage media or
justify the use of a type of storage media for a
particular purpose
2.8 Describe a range of input devices or justify the
use of a type of input device for a particular
purpose
2.9 Describe a range of output devices or justify the
use of an output device for a particular purpose
3. Understand how data is 3.1 Describe how data is represented by binary
represented in a computer 3.2 Describe how data is represented by ASCII
system 3.3 Describe how data is represented by Unicode
3.4 Explain how encryption can be used to represent
data
3.5 Explain how compression can facilitate the
storage and transmission of data
3.6 Explain the purpose of number systems
3.7 Explain the binary number system
3.8 Demonstrate addition or subtraction of binary
numbers
3.9 Demonstrate an understanding of two’s
complement
3.10 Explain the hexadecimal number system
3.11 Demonstrate conversion between decimal,
binary or hexadecimal numbers
3.12 Describe how images are represented in a
computer system
3.13 Describe how sound is represented in a
computer system
3.14 Explain how compression can facilitate storage
and transmission of images or sound
3.15 Define the term ‘digital logic’
3.16 Explain the purpose and operation of logic gates
Page 28 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4. Understand the fundamental 4.1 Explain the purpose of a computer network
concepts of computer 4.2 Describe types of computer network or explain
networks the criteria for selecting a particular type of
network
4.3 Describe the hardware used in a computer
network
4.4 Describe the software used in a computer
network
4.5 Describe the transmission media used in a
computer network
4.6 Describe types of network transmission
protocols
4.7 Describe types of computer network topology or
justify the use of a topology for a particular
purpose
4.8 Describe Internet and World Wide Web
technologies
4.9 Discuss computer network issues
5. Understand cultural, ethical 5.1 Explain what a cultural issue is
and legal issues relating to 5.2 Describe a range of cultural issues
computing 5.3 Explain how cultural issues can be addressed
5.4 Explain what an ethical issue is
5.5 Describe a range of ethical issues
5.6 Explain how ethical issues can be addressed
5.7 Identify laws and guidelines that relate to
computing
5.8 Describe situations where laws and guidelines
have been used to deal with people using
computers to commit crimes or cause offence
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Introduction to • Definition of computer system
Computer • Functions of a computer system
Systems and • Data and information
Hardware
• An overview of a typical computer system
• Types of computer systems
• Big data
• The Internet of Things
• Definition of hardware
• The role of computer hardware
• Types of computer hardware
• Accessibility
Learning Outcome: 1
Page 29 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Introduction to • Definition of software
Application • Categories of software
Software and • Software compatibility
System
• Types and uses of application software
Software
• How to obtain software
• Software licences
• Criteria to consider when selecting application software
• System software
- operating system software
- utility software
- driver software
• Criteria to consider when selecting system software
Learning Outcome: 1
Internal • Internal components:
Components of Motherboard, chips, central processing unit (CPU), clock, memory,
Computer chipset, expansion slots and cards, power supply, fan, buses,
Hardware connectors
• How components communicate with each other
• How components communicate with external devices
Learning Outcomes: 2
Computer • The role of a computer processor
Processors • Types of processor
• Components of a CPU
• The functions of a CPU
• How components of a CPU communicate with each other
• The fetch-execute-decode cycle
Learning Outcome: 2
Storage • Computer storage
Devices and • Units of measurement of computer storage
Input and • Computer storage media
Output Devices
• Storage locations
• Criteria to consider when selecting computer storage
• Input devices
• Criteria to consider when selecting input devices
• Output devices:
• Criteria to consider when selecting output devices
Learning Outcome: 2
Page 30 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Data • Binary representation of data
Representation • ASCII representation of data
• Unicode representation of data
• Hexadecimal representation of data
• Definitions of encryption and decryption
• Examples of encryption
• Definition of compression
• Compression of data
Learning Outcome: 3
Number • Number systems
Representation • Decimal number system
• Binary number system
• Why consider number systems?
• Addition of binary numbers
• Subtraction of binary numbers
• Two’s complement
• Hexadecimal number system
• Converting decimal, binary and hexadecimal numbers
Learning Outcome: 3
Image and • Image representation
Sound • Image file formats
Representation
• Compression of images
• Sound representation
• Sound file formats
• Compression of sound
Learning Outcome: 3
Digital Logic • Digital logic
• Truth Tables
• Logic gates
- AND
- OR
- NOT
- NAND
- NOR
Learning Outcome: 3
Page 31 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Computer • Definition of a computer network
Networks • Types of network
• Criteria for selecting a network
• Network hardware
• Network transmission media
• Network transmission protocols
• Network software
Learning Outcome: 4
Network • Define a network topology
Topologies and
• Types of topology
the Internet
• Criteria for selecting a topology
• Definition of the Internet
• Definition of the World Wide Web (WWW)
• World Wide Web technologies
• Computer network issues
Learning Outcome: 4
Cultural, Ethical • Definition of cultural issues
and Legal • Examples of cultural issues
Issues Relating • Addressing cultural issues
to Computing • Definition of ethical issues
• Examples of ethical issues
• Addressing ethical issues
• UK laws and guidelines
- Data Protection Act (1998)
- Computer Misuse Act (1990)
- Copyright, Designs and Patents
Act (1988)
• Global laws and computers
• Examples of situations where the law has been applied
Learning Outcome: 5
Assessment Type
• Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 32 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.8 Introduction to Programming
Total
Guided Learning Hours 50 hours Qualification 100 hours
Time
Page 33 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Introduction to the IDE, VB • Introduction to Visual Studio Community 2015 IDE
Properties and creating a GUI
• Introduction to GUI objects and properties
• Introduction to creating a GUI
Learning Outcome: 2
Introduction to data types and • Introduction to programming
sequential programming
• Introduction to objects
• Introduction to variables
• Assignment statements
• Introduction to data types
• Arithmetic operations
Learning Outcome: 3
Introduction to the programming • Introduction to iteration
construct of iteration and fixed
• Flow of execution
loops
• For loop structure
• Variables and loops
• Nested loops
Learning Outcome: 4
Introduction to the programming • If statement structure
construct of selection
• Comparison operators
• If-Else structure
• If – Else – If structure
• Compound conditionals
• Switch statements
Learning Outcomes: 2, 4
Introduction to conditional loops • Importance of data validation
and data validation
• Checking for specific values
• Checking for a range of values
• String comparisons
• While loop structure
• Logical comparisons
• Multiple conditions
• Do - While loops
Learning Outcomes: 2, 4
Page 34 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Project Definition and Design • Specification, design, implementation, test cycle
• Project Brief to Specification
• Object Definition Sheets
• Debugging and testing
Learning Outcome: 1
Case Study: Creating a GUI • Consolidation of learning from topics 1 – 6
program that uses sequence,
• Student mid-course assignment
selection and iteration
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4
Introduction to Arrays • Benefits of arrays
• Declaring arrays
• Initialising and filling arrays
• Accessing and changing values in arrays
• Manipulating arrays using for loops
• Sorting arrays
Learning Outcomes: 4, 6
Introduction to Methods • Different method types in VB (Subs and Functions)
and scope
• Parameter passing
• Return statements
• Method overloading
Learning Outcomes: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Introduction to File I/O • Files and data storage
• Writing to files
• Reading from files
• Exception handling for file I/O
Learning Outcome: 5
Case Study: Creating a GUI • Consolidation of learning from topics 1 – 10
program that uses arrays,
• Student end of course exam
procedures and file I/O
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Assessment Type
Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 35 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.9 Introduction to Business
Page 36 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
3. Understand basic marketing principles 3.1 Use basic marketing principles
in business 3.2 Define and assess ‘needs’ and ‘wants’
3.3 Create a SWOT analysis for an organisation
3.4 Review a range of market segment categories
3.5 Explain and use market research and the
marketing mix
3.6 Review available marketing channels and select
the most appropriate for a product
3.7 Assess and devise appropriate marketing goals
for a product
3.8 Assess a range of marketing tactics and propose
the most appropriate for a product
4. Understand production and the role of 4.1 Define ‘production’
quality in business 4.2 Understand the steps necessary in a range of
production processes
4.3 Compare and contrast different production
layouts
4.4 Demonstrate the ability to select the most
suitable production method for a particular product
4.5 Explain why quality is important in business
4.6 Explain the Kaizen method for quality control
4.7 Analyse a production process and define how
quality control can be implemented
5. Understand and analyse the business 5.1 Analyse the macro business environment using
environment business tools such as PESTLE
5.2 Determine activities that an organisation should
pursue in light of analysis of its environment
5.3 Analyse the risk arising from the business
environment
5.4 Understand how competition functions
5.5 Understand the basics of market structure
5.6 Understand common barriers to entry
Syllabus Content
Topic Course Coverage
Concepts of Business • What Businesses are
• What Businesses do
The Business Environment • The Business Environment
• Micro and Macro Environments
• PESTLE analysis
Competition and Market • Competition
Structure • Market Structures
Business Ethics and Corporate • What are Business Ethics?
Social Responsibility • What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
Page 37 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Production and Quality – • Product
Production and Assembly Lines • Assembly Lines and Layouts
• Operations Management
Production and Quality – • What is quality?
Quality and Kaizen • Why is quality important?
• Quality inspection and quality assurance
• Methods for managing quality e.g., TQM, Kaizen
People and Processes – • Management
Management and Leadership • Managers and Leaders
Styles
• Leadership Styles
People and Processes – • Organisation Structure and Design
Organisational Structure and
Design
People and Processes – • What is Culture?
Culture and Change • What is Change?
• Managing, Leading, and Communicating Change
Marketing – Marketing and • Marketing
Market Segments • Market Segments
Marketing – Market Research • Market Research
• Primary
• Secondary
Marketing – Marketing Mix and • The Marketing Mix
SWOT • SWOT Analysis
• Marketing tactics
• Marketing planning
Assessment Type
• Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 38 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.10 Introduction to Accounting and Economics
Total Qualification
Guided Learning Hours 36 hours 100 hours
Time
Page 39 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus Content
Topic Course Coverage
• How accounting is used in record keeping.
How does accounting help in
business? • How accounting is used in decision-making.
• How accounting is useful in maintaining business
sustainability.
• Concept of profit.
• Relevance of economics to business.
Why is economics important
for business? • Four core concepts of economics.
• Differences between microeconomics and
macroeconomics.
• Applying economic thinking to business decision
making.
• Factors that influence supply and demand.
Deciding what a business
should produce • Creation and application of supply and demand
diagrams.
• Principle of the invisible hand.
• The use of the concept of opportunity cost to propose
business strategy.
• How economic systems influence timeliness.
Deciding when to produce
products • How to analyse the economic environment.
• The role of government in the economic system and
environment.
• Developing strategy concerning business decisions
to produce a product.
• How economic systems influence how and where to
Deciding how and where to produce a product
produce the product
• How to analyse the economics environment
• Analyse the factors that influence supply.
• Apply economic thinking to business decision
making.
• How the economic environment impacts sales.
Deciding where to sell the
product • How factors that influence supply and demand
impact on sales.
• How much influence a business has on the price of
its products.
• Developing strategy concerning business decisions
to sell a product.
• Types of business and their suitability for their
Deciding on the type of purpose
business
• Limited liability and how it relates to business
ownership and control
• The importance of share capital and business
ownership
• The profit motive
Page 40 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
• Assets, liabilities and capital
Understanding the business
financially • Income, expenses and appropriations
• The content and presentation of a Statement of
Financial Position
• The content and presentation of an Income
Statement
• The importance of cash to a business
Business Survival and
Growth • The relationship between cash and profit
• The role of credit in business
• Business liquidity
• The importance of solvency, insolvency and going
concern
• What is growth? and how to develop a growth
strategy
• The measurement of profit
Importance of profit
• Understanding investor needs
• Understanding profit planning
• Understanding how profits are divided between
interested parties
• Interpreting a financial statement
Analysis of business
performance • Understanding financial analysis
• Understanding and analysing profit margins,
liquidity, solvency, and business activity
• Analysing financial statements to establish the
relative health of a business
• Understanding how companies use accounting and
Establishing business health economic information for decision making
and growth
• Analysing financial statements to establish the
relative health of a business
• Analysing business performance from information in
annual accounts
• Understanding the analysis of financial performance
and economic environment to propose business
strategy
Assessment Type
• Global Assignment (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 41 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.11. Further Mathematics
Total Qualification
Guided Learning Hours 60 hours 100 hours
Time
Page 42 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
3. Be able to perform arithmetic 3.1 Add and subtract matrices of the same
operations using matrices, dimension
understand basic transformations 3.2 Perform matrix multiplication,
using matrices and, in addition, demonstrating an understanding of
understand which matrices represent non-commutativity and associativity
linear transformations and calculate
3.3 Find the image of points in the x-y
the inverse of a matrix
plane under given matrix
transformations
3.4 State whether a given transformation is
a linear transformation and describe a
transformation in terms of its effect on
a column vector in two dimensions
3.5 Find the 2x2 matrix which represents a
given linear transformation or find the
linear transformation represented by a
given matrix
3.6 Use matrix products to find matrices
that represent combinations of two
transformations
3.7 Calculate the determinant of a 2x2
matrix and find the inverse if it exists
4. Understand the properties of rational 4.1 Sketch the basic shape of quadratics,
functions and understand conic cubics, quartics, trigonometric
sections functions and reciprocals, and
understand the effect transformations
have on the equations
4.2 Sketch rational functions with a linear
numerator and denominator, finding
asymptotes and points of intersections
with coordinate axes
4.3 Sketch rational functions with two
distinct linear factors in the
denominator and repeated factors in
the denominator
4.4 Find stationary points on the graphs of
rational functions
4.5 Recognise the standard equations of
parabolas, ellipses and hyperbolas in
both Cartesian and parametric form
and sketch the given equations,
understanding the effects of
transformations on the given equations
4.6 Find the Cartesian equations of
parabolas, given their focus and
directrix
4.7 Find the coordinates of the focus and
an equation for the directrix of a
parabola
Page 43 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5. Understand how to use sigma 5.1 Use the sigma notation, ∑ , to calculate
notation to calculate the sum of the sum of simple finite series
simple finite series, and appreciate 5.2 Use the formula for the sum of the first
the relationship between the roots of n natural numbers, and the sum of the
polynomials and their coefficients squares and cubes of the first n natural
numbers
5.3 Use the method of differences to find
the sum of a series
5.4 Find the sum and product of the roots
of a quadratic equation, and derive a
quadratic equation given information
about its roots
6. Understand further techniques in 6.1 Use the chain rule, product rule or
calculus to differentiate combinations quotient rule to differentiate functions
of functions, how to use these 6.2 Covert parametric equations into
techniques to solve problems Cartesian form
involving functions given
6.3 Differentiate a curve whose equation is
parametrically and how to derive
given parametrically
Maclaurin and Taylor series
6.4 Find the equations of tangents and
normals of curves whose equations are
given parametrically
6.5 Use the chain and product rule to find
second, third and higher order
derivatives
6.6 Derive and find the Maclaurin
expansion of a given function in
ascending powers of x
6.7 Derive and use Taylor’s series to
expand a given function in ascending
powers of x
7. Understand further trigonometry and 7.1 Solve problems involving trigonometric
hyperbolic functions identities
7.2 Understand and use compound angle
formulae
7.3 Understand and use the double angle
formulae
7.4 Write down the definitions of the
hyperbolic functions, including the
reciprocal hyperbolic functions
7.5 Sketch the graphs of the main
hyperbolic functions, including the
reciprocal hyperbolic functions
7.6 Solve equations using hyperbolic
functions
Page 44 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
8. Understand Euler’s relation and De 8.1 Calculate the product and quotient of
Moivre’s theorem and derive relations two complex numbers in polar
between trigonometric functions and coordinate form
hyperbolic functions 8.2 Derive Euler’s relation and write
complex numbers in exponential form
8.3 Derive de Moivre’s theorem and obtain
formulae for sinnθ and cosnθ in terms
of sinθ and cosθ
8.4 Use the exponential form of a complex
number to derive relations between
trigonometric functions and hyperbolic
functions
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Cubic • Products of polynomials and equating coefficients
Polynomials & • Algebraic long division
Partial • Factor theorem
Fractions
• Factorising cubic polynomials
• Expressing rational functions in terms of their partial fractions, given:
(a) Two linear factors in the denominator
(b) A repeated root
• How to express improper algebraic fractions in terms of their partial
fractions
Learning Outcome: 1
Complex • Completing the square of quadratic trinomials
Numbers I • An introduction to complex numbers
• Solving quadratic equations with complex roots
• Representing complex numbers on an Argand diagram
Learning Outcome: 2
Complex • The modulus-argument form of a complex number
Numbers II • Solve further problems involving complex numbers
• Solve polynomial equations with real coefficients
• Loci in the complex plane
• Inequalities with complex numbers
Learning Outcome: 2
Matrices • An introduction to matrices including performing basic operations on
matrices
• Properties of matrix multiplication including non-commutativity and
associativity
• Finding and using the inverse of a matrix when it exists
• Linear transformations
Learning Outcome: 3
Page 45 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Graphs of • Sketching the basic shape of quadratics, cubics, trigonometric
Rational functions and reciprocals, understanding the effects of
Functions transformations of these graphs
• Sketching rational functions with linear numerators and
denominators, calculating any asymptotes
• Finding any turning points on graphs of rational functions without
using calculus
Learning Outcome: 4
Series • Calculating basic arithmetic series
• Use of sigma notation to calculate the sum of given series
• Use of the formula for the sum of the first n natural numbers
(including squares and cubes)
• Method of differences
Learning Outcome: 5
Further • Further techniques in differentiation of more complex rational
Calculus functions
Techniques I • Use of the chain rule, the product rule and quotient rule
• An introduction to trigonometric identities and techniques to
differentiate the trigonometric functions and their reciprocals
Learning Outcome: 6
Further • Binomial series expansion for (1 + 𝑥)𝑛
Calculus • Use of the chain and product rule to find second, third and higher
Techniques II & order derivatives
Maclaurin and • Maclaurin series expansion of a given function in ascending powers
Taylor Series of 𝑥
• Taylor’s series to expand a given function in ascending powers of 𝑥
Learning Outcome: 6
Trigonometric • Solving trigonometric equations including solving problems using
Identities & trigonometric identities
Hyperbolic • Definitions of hyperbolic functions and their graphs
Functions • Osborn’s rule
• Differentiating hyperbolic functions
• Solving equations involving hyperbolic functions
Learning Outcome: 7
Euler’s Relation • Compound angle identities
and De • Products and quotients of complex numbers in polar form
Moivre’s • Exponential form of complex numbers and Euler’s formula
Theorem
• De Moivre’s theorem
• Relationships between trigonometric and hyperbolic functions
Learning Outcome: 8
Page 46 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Parametric • Drawing equations given parametrically by plotting points on the
Equations graph
• Converting functions between their Cartesian form and parametric
form
• Differentiating curves given in parametric form
• Tangents and normals to curves given parametrically
• The second derivative
Learning Outcomes: 6
Coordinate • An introduction to conic sections
Systems • The parabola and its transformations, including finding the equation
of the parabola given its focus and directrix
• The ellipse and its transformations
• The hyperbola and its transformations
Learning Outcome: 4
Assessment Type
• Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 47 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.12 Physics
Title Physics
Unit reference number K/615/2416
Credits 10
Level 3
Total Qualification
Guided Learning Hours 43 hours 100 hours
Time
Page 48 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4. Understand the mechanics of 4.1 Explain the principle of momentum and
momentum conservation of momentum
4.2 Describe the difference between
inelastic and elastic collisions
4.3 Find out the centre of mass for
individual particles
4.4 Calculate rotational kinetic energy
5. Understand the mechanics of periodic 5.1 Explain the simple harmonic oscillator
motion 5.2 Determine the maximum speed of an
oscillator system
5.3 Measure the acceleration of a simple
pendulum due to gravity
6. Understand the basic principles of 6.1 Explain the meaning of temperature
thermal physics and heat
6.2 Describe the three phases of matter
and find out the energies for phase
change
6.3 Calculate thermal expansion effects in
solids, liquids and gases
6.4 State the first law of thermodynamics
and explain how thermal energy is
involved in the conservation of energy
principle
6.5 Describe the effects of thermodynamic
processes
6.6 Define the specific heat of an ideal gas
6.7 Explain the second law of
thermodynamics and its limitations
6.8 Calculate the efficiencies of heat
engines and refrigerators
6.9 Explain the meaning of, or calculate,
entropy
Page 49 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
7. Understand the fundamentals of 7.1 Examine the behaviour of electric
electrostatics charge using Coulomb’s law
7.2 Explain the meaning of, or calculate,
an electric field
7.3 Explain Gauss’s law for electric fields
7.4 Explain the concept of electric potential
difference
7.5 Calculate the potential difference
between two points in a simple electric
field
7.6 Calculate the electric potential for a
point in the electric field of a point
charge
7.7 Describe charge distribution on
conductors
7.8 Explain the concept of capacitance
7.9 Find out the capacitance of a parallel
plate capacitor
7.10 Calculate the equivalent capacitance of
a combination of capacitors consisting
of parallel and series capacitors
7.11 Demonstrate how dielectrics make
capacitors more effective
8. Understand the fundamentals of 8.1 Describe electric current and current
electrodynamics density
8.2 Describe electrical resistance
8.3 Relate electrical current, voltage and
resistance using Ohm’s law
8.4 Calculate electric power
8.5 Draw a circuit with resistors in parallel
and in series
8.6 Explain the reason why the total
resistance of a parallel circuit is less
than smallest resistance of any of the
resistors in the circuit
8.7 Analyse a complex circuit using
Kirchhoff’s rules
8.8 State the main functions of voltmeters
and ammeters
Page 50 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
9. Understand the fundamentals of 9.1 Describe the meaning of magnetic
magnetism field, magnetic field lines and magnetic
flux
9.2 Calculate the motion of a charged
particle in a magnetic field
9.3 Explain the relation between magnetic
fields and magnetic forces
9.4 Calculate the magnetic field of a
moving charge
9.5 Calculate the magnetic field of a
current element
9.6 Calculate the force between parallel
conductors
9.7 Understand Ampere’s law
9.8 Calculate a magnetic field using
Ampere’s law
9.9 Explain electromagnetic induction
9.10 Calculate an induced electric field
using Faraday’s law
Syllabus Content
Topic Course coverage
Motion • Definition of kinematics and dynamics
• Displacement, time, velocity and acceleration
• Equations of motion
• Non-uniform motion
• Free falling bodies and projectile motion
• Circular motion
Learning Outcome: 1
Forces • Types of forces
• Newton’s first law
• Newton’s second law
• Newton’s third law
• Newton’s second law applied in circular motion
• Equilibrium
Learning Outcome: 2
Work and energy • Work and kinetic energy
• The work-energy conservation law
• Power
• Potential energy
Learning Outcome: 3
Page 51 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Momentum and • Linear momentum
collisions • Conservation of momentum
• Collisions
• Elastic collisions
• Inelastic collisions
• Centre of mass frame
• Rotational kinetic energy
Learning Outcome: 4
Periodic motion • Simple harmonic motion
• Total energy of a harmonic oscillator
• Importance of simple harmonic motion
• Motion of a simple pendulum
Learning Outcome: 5
Thermal physics • Temperature and heat
• Thermal properties of matter
• The first law of thermodynamics
• The second law of thermodynamics
Learning Outcome: 6
Electrostatics I • Electric charge and Coulomb’s law
• Electric field
• Charge and electric flux
• Gauss’s law
Learning Outcomes: 7
Electrostatics II • Electric potential
• Conductors, capacitors and capacitance
• Capacitors in series and parallel connection
• Dielectrics
Learning Outcome: 7
Electrodynamics I • Electric current
• Resistivity and resistance
• Electromotive force in electric circuits
• Energy and power in electric circuits
Learning Outcomes: 8
Electrodynamics II • Direct current circuits
• Resistors in series and parallel
• Kirchhoff’s laws
• Electrical measuring instruments
Learning Outcome: 8
Page 52 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Magnetism I • Magnetic field, magnetic field lines and magnetic flux
• Motion of a charged particle in a magnetic field
• Magnetic force on a current-carrying conductor
• Magnetic field of a moving charge
• Magnetic field of a current element
Learning Outcomes: 9
Magnetism II • Magnetic field of a current-carrying conductor
• Force between parallel conductors
• Ampere’s law
• Induction and Faraday’s law
• Induced electric field
Learning Outcome: 9
Assessment Type
• Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 53 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.13 Chemistry
Title Chemistry
Credits 10
Level 3
Total Qualification
Guided Learning Hours 52 hours 100 hours
Time
Page 54 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
2. Understand energetics, rates, 2.1 Define examples of standard enthalpy
kinetics and chemical equilibria changes.
2.2 Demonstrate that enthalpy change can be
calculated from a potential energy diagram
2.3 Explain how calorimetry can be used to
measure enthalpy changes.
2.4 Apply Hess’s Law to calculations of
enthalpy changes and bond enthalpy
values.
2.5 Describe, using collision theory, the effects
of concentration, pressure, surface area
(particle size), temperature and collision
geometry on reaction rates.
2.6 Define activation energy.
2.7 Use energy distribution diagrams to
explain the effect of temperature on
reaction rate.
2.8 Determine the order of a reaction from
experimental data and rate equations.
2.9 Calculate the rate constant and its units.
2.10 Using the rate equation, predict the rate
determining step and a possible
mechanism.
2.11 Describe the equilibrium chemistry of acids
and bases.
2.12 Construct equilibrium expressions.
2.13 Explain and use the terms: pH, Kw, Ka and
pKa.
Page 55 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
3. Understand the key points of 3.1. State and explain the trends in melting and
inorganic chemistry boiling points down a group and across a
period.
3.2. State and explain the trends in covalent
radius across periods and down groups.
3.3. State and explain the trends in ionisation
energies across periods and down groups.
3.4. State and explain the trends in
electronegativity across periods and down
groups.
3.5. Understand the trends in the properties of
oxides, chlorides and hydrides across the
Periodic Table.
3.6. Define the terms acidic, basic and
amphoteric oxides, and know the reactions
of some chlorides with water.
3.7. Deduce the electronic configurations and
oxidation states of transition metal atoms
and ions.
3.8. Explain what ligands are and how they
bond in transition metal complexes.
3.9. Explain and deduce coordination number
in a transition metal-ligand complex.
3.10. Name transition metal-ligand complexes
according to IUPAC rules.
3.11. Explain why some transition metal
complexes are coloured.
3.12. Understand how transition metals and their
compounds can act as catalysts.
Page 56 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
4. Understand functional groups, 4.1 Describe the concept of a functional group.
naming organic compounds and 4.2 Convert between molecular, structural and
isomerism skeletal formulae of compounds with no
more than ten carbons in length.
4.3 Use the IUPAC nomenclature rules to
name the following simple organic
compounds: alkanes, alkenes, alcohols,
aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids,
esters and arenes (one benzene ring with
one or more simple substituents).
4.4 Interpret and use the general, structural,
and skeletal formulae of the following
classes of compound: alkanes, alkenes
and simple arenes; haloalkanes; alcohols;
aldehydes and ketones; carboxylic acids,
esters and acyl chlorides.
4.5 Explain that stereoisomers are isomers
that have the same molecular formula but
differ in structural formulae (a different
spatial arrangement of their atoms).
4.6 Understand that geometric isomers are
stereoisomers where there is a lack of
rotation around one of the bonds mostly a
C=C.
4.7 Explain that these isomers are labelled cis
and trans dependent on whether the
substitutes are on the same or different
sides of the C=C.
4.8 Recognise that optical isomers are non-
superimposable mirror images of
asymmetric molecules and are referred to
as chiral molecules or enantiomers.
4.9 Explain how isomers can often have very
different physical or chemical properties
from each other.
Page 57 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
6. Understand aromatic (arene) 6.1. Describe and explain the structure,
chemistry bonding and stability of the benzene ring.
6.2. Name and draw various aromatic
compounds.
6.3. Describe substitution reactions of
benzene: alkylation, nitration, sulfonation
and halogenation as examples of
electrophilic substitution in benzene and
other aromatic compounds.
6.4. Compare and contrast the electrophilic
addition reaction used by alkenes, to the
electrophilic substitution reaction used by
benzene.
7. Understand the techniques used in 7.1. Explain how mass spectrometry can be
organic analysis used to determine the accurate molecular
mass and structural features of an organic
compound.
7.2. Explain how chromatographic techniques
can be used to separate and identify
components in a mixture.
7.3. Explain how elemental microanalysis can
be used to work out an empirical formula.
7.4. Explain how infra-red spectroscopy can be
used to identify certain functional groups in
an organic compound and work out which
compound is responsible for a spectra by
identifying which functional groups are
responsible for peaks.
7.5. Explain how proton nuclear magnetic
resonance spectroscopy (proton NMR)
can give information about the different
environments of hydrogen atoms in an
organic molecule, and how many
hydrogen atoms there are in each of these
environments.
Page 58 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Syllabus Content
Intermediate Level
Topic Course coverage
Atomic structure • Protons, neutrons and electrons; their relative charges and relative
and masses.
stoichiometry • Protons, neutrons and electrons present in atoms, isotopes and
ions given mass and atomic numbers and vice versa.
• Development of the models of atomic structure from Rutherford, via
Bohr to Quantum Mechanics.
• Quantum numbers, atomic orbitals and relative energies.
• Atomic orbitals, their shape and their relative energies.
• Electronic configuration of atoms 1-20 in spectroscopic notation.
• Application of chemical formulae to show the relationships between
mass, moles, gram formula mass, Avogadro’s constant,
concentration and molar volume.
• Simple acid-base titrations, back titrations, redox and
complexometric titrations.
• Uncertainties in experiments.
Learning Outcome 1
Chemical • Metallic bonding
Bonding,
• Electronegativity and the bonding continuum to distinguish
Structure and
between covalent and ionic bonds
Properties
• Ionic and covalent intramolecular chemical bonding
• Dative covalent bonding and properties in term of melting and
boiling points.
• Intermolecular chemical bonding (‘van der Waals'):
o London dispersion forces
o Permanent dipole-permanent dipole interactions
o Hydrogen bonding
• Representations using ‘dot-and cross’ (Lewis) diagrams, shapes
in some simple molecules and ions using Valence Shell Electron
Repulsion (VSEPR) Theory
Learning Outcome 1
Periodicity in the • Trends in melting and boiling points due to bonding.
Periodic Table • Trends in covalent radius across periods and down groups of the
Periodic Table.
• Trends in ionisation energies across periods and down groups of
the Periodic Table.
• Trends in electronegativity across periods and down groups of the
Periodic Table.
Learning Outcome 3
Page 59 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Transition Metal • Electronic configuration of transition metal atoms and ions.
Chemistry • Oxidation states of transition metals and ions.
• Oxidation number during oxidation or reduction reactions.
• Ligands in transition metal complexes
• Coordination number.
• Naming transition metal ligand complexes.
• Transition metal complexes and colour.
• Transition metals as catalysts.
Learning Outcome 3
Chemical • Enthalpy change (∆H).
Energetics • Calorimetry (∆H=cm∆T).
• Applications of Hess’s law, including Born-Haber Cycles.
• Bond enthalpies
Learning Outcome 2
Reaction-rates • Collision theory.
and Kinetics • Factors affecting the rate of a reaction.
• Activation energy and the Maxwell-Boltzman energy distribution
curve.
• Order of a reaction (0, 1, 2, 3) from experimental data and rate
equations.
• Rate constants and units of k.
• Rate equation, rate determining step and possible mechanism.
Learning Outcome 2
Chemical • Equilibrium constant, k.
Equilibria • Composition of reaction mixtures, from the equilibrium equation.
• Use of Kc and Kp values.
• Types of chemical equilibria-homogeneous and heterogeneous.
• Le Chatelier’s principle.
• Equilibrium and catalysts.
• Definitions of acid, base, conjugate acid and conjugate base.
• Kw, the ionic product of water.
• Ka and the strengths of acids and bases.
• Calculating the pH of solutions of strong acids and bases from
[H+] and the pH of solutions of weak acids from Ka values.
Learning Outcome 2
Page 60 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Organic • Identification of organic compounds using functional groups.
nomenclature • Conversion between molecular, structural and skeletal formulae
and isomerism
of compounds with no more than ten carbons in length.
• IUPAC nomenclature rules for: alkanes, alkenes, alcohols,
aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and esters.
• Optical isomers
o Identifying and drawing enantiomers (R and S) using
wedges and dashes.
o Identification of chiral carbon centres.
o Identification using polarimeter
• Geometric isomerism
o Formation of sigma and pi bonds on the C=C double bond
(hybridisation may be used to explain bonding but will not
be specifically examined).
o Identifying and drawing Cis and Trans isomers.
o Restricted rotation of the double bond to geometric
isomerism.
oBoiling point features of Cis and Trans isomers.
oCompare and explain the melting point features of Cis and
Trans isomers.
Learning Outcome 4
Organic • Preparation and reactions of alkanes.
Synthesis
• Preparation and reactions of alkenes.
Reactions- Part
1 • Preparation and reactions of haloalkanes.
Learning Outcome 5
Organic • Preparation and reactions of alcohols.
Synthesis • Preparation and reactions of carboxylic acids and acyl chlorides.
Reactions- Part
2 • Esters - preparation, uses, percentage yield and atom economy.
• Preparation and reactions of aldehydes and ketones.
Learning Outcome 5
Aromatic • The structure, bonding and stability of the benzene ring.
Chemistry • Naming and drawing aromatic compounds (one benzene ring with
one or more simple substituents).
• How the pattern of electron density renders electrophilic attack
the dominant reaction type in benzene.
• Drawing and discussing the mechanisms for the following
electrophilic substitution reactions: alkylation, nitration, sulfonation
and halogenation.
• Comparison of electrophilic addition reactions used by alkenes to
the electrophilic substitution reaction used by benzene.
Learning Outcome 6
Page 61 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Organic • Introduction to mass spectrometry.
Analysis • Interpretation of the mass spectra of various simple organic
molecules.
• Chromatographic techniques.
• Elemental microanalysis
• Background to Infrared spectroscopy.
• Infrared spectroscopy in structure determination (functional group
identification).
• Background on proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-NMR).
• Shielding and de-shielding related to the chemical shift values.
• Use of tetramethysilane (TMS) as an internal standard.
• Use of H-NMR in the determination of simple organic compound
structure.
Learning Outcome 7
Assessment Type
Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 62 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
5.14 Biology
Title Biology
Credits 10
Level 3
Total Qualification
Guided Learning Hours 52 hours 100 hours
Time
2. Understand the systems involved 2.1 Describe the structures and explain
in the co-ordination and control of functions of the CNS and PNS.
the body 2.2 Explain the transmission of impulses
across synapses.
2.3 Describe the components of the
Endocrine system.
2.4 Explain the concept of feedback loops,
with examples form the human body.
2.5 Describe of hormones in controlling
metabolism with Thyroxine as a named
example.
2.6 Explain the of hormones in controlling the
menstrual cycle during pregnancy.
2.7 Describe the structure and function of the
eyes, ears nose (in relation so smell),
mouth (in relation to taste) and the skin
(in relation to sensory perception).
Page 63 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
3. Understand the systems involved 3.1 Describe the structure and explain the
movement and energy release in functions of the skeleton.
the body 3.2 Describe the structure and explain the
functions of the three adult muscle types.
3.3 Describe and explain the function,
structure and components of human
circulatory systems.
3.4 Explain the specific function of the heart
and how heart rate is governed.
3.5 Describe the structure, function and
control of the respiratory system.
3.6 Explain gas exchange.
3.7 Explain respiratory disease in relation to
lung structure and function.
3.8 Explain the production of energy using
aerobic respiration and anaerobic
respiration to meet the bodies energy
requirements.
3.9 Explain the use of different sources of
energy in different circumstances, and
how this helps the body to cope with a
lack of food.
4. Understand how the body obtains 4.1 Describe and explain the structure of the
the nutrients it needs and digestive system.
disposes of waste products 4.2 Describe and explain the digestive
process which occur in the different areas
of the digestive system with reference to
enzymes and absorption.
4.3 Explain the basics of excretion through
the skin, digestive system and kidneys.
4.4 Explain the sources and roles of
macronutrients in the body.
4.5 Explain the sources and roles of example
micronutrients in the body.
4.6 Link nutritional imbalance to disease.
5. Understand the body’s defences 5.1 Describe and explain the bodies innate
against disease and infection immune system.
5.2 Describe and explain the bodies active
immune system.
5.3 Explain how vaccines work.
5.4 Explain how immune system faults can
cause illness.
Page 64 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
6. Understand the process of 6.1 Explain cell division by mitosis, to
reproduction produce genetically identical daughter
cells.
6.2 Explain cell division by meiosis to
produce genetically distinct gametes
6.3 Describe the main structures of the male
and female reproduction systems.
Syllabus Content
Intermediate Level
Topic Course coverage
Cell Structure • Components and function of cell membranes
• Movement across cell membranes
• Cell organelles and their function
• Cell differentiation for roles in the body, e.g. nerve cells
Learning outcome 1
Page 65 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Respiration (gas • The structure, function and control of the respiratory system.
exchange) • Gas exchange.
• Respiratory disease in relation to lung structure and function.
Learning outcome 3
Assessment Type
Global Examination (100%)
See also Section 3 above
Page 66 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
6. Results and Certificates
The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded by unit to successful candidates.
A Pass is awarded for an overall unit mark of between 40 and 59. A Merit is awarded for an
overall unit mark of between 60 and 69 and a Distinction is awarded for an overall unit mark of
70 and above. Candidates who obtain an overall unit mark of below 40 are classed as a fail in
the unit and may resit.
A final qualification mark will be awarded upon successful completion of all units. This is
calculated by finding the average mark of all units that make up the qualification. Please note
that in exceptional circumstances, NCC Education may be required to change the algorithm
to calculate a final qualification mark for a learner in order to secure the maintenance of
standards over time. Any necessary changes to this algorithm would be shared with Centres
and learners promptly by NCC Education. An example is given below:
10120/potential 12,000 = 84
After each assessment cycle, results slips are issued (in electronic format) which detail the
grades achieved, i.e. Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction (see Appendix 1) and numerical marks.
Certificates which contain your qualification grade and pass mark are then dispatched to
Centres.
Page 67 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
7 Further Information
For more information about any of NCC Education’s products, please contact
[email protected] or, alternatively, please visit www.nccedu.com to find out
more about our suite of high-quality British qualifications and programmes.
Page 68 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
8. Appendix 1 Grade Descriptors
The grade descriptors Pass, Merit and Distinction are awarded to successful candidates. The
following are characteristics intended to provide a general indication of assessment
performance in relation to each Learning Outcome in this specification. The final grade
awarded will depend on the extent to which a candidate has satisfied the Assessment Criteria
overall.
Page 69 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for English for Academic Purposes
Page 70 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Advanced English Language Skills
Page 71 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Study and Communication Skills
Page 72 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Culture Studies
Page 73 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Foundation Mathematics
Page 74 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Introduction to Accounting and Economics
Page 75 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Introduction to Business
Page 76 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Introduction to Programming
Page 77 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Introduction to Computer Science
Page 78 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Further Mathematics
Page 79 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
functions, how to use
these techniques to
solve problems
involving functions
given parametrically
and how to derive
Maclaurin and Taylor
series
Understand further Demonstrate Demonstrate Demonstrate highly
trigonometry and adequate robust comprehensive
hyperbolic functions understanding understanding of understanding of
of techniques techniques techniques
Understand Euler’s Demonstrate Demonstrate Demonstrate highly
relation and De Moivre’s adequate robust level of comprehensive level of
theorem and derive level of understanding understanding
relations between understanding
trigonometric functions
and hyperbolic
functions
Understand further Demonstrate Demonstrate Demonstrate highly
techniques in calculus adequate robust comprehensive
to differentiate understanding understanding of understanding of
combinations of of techniques techniques techniques
functions, how to use
these techniques to
solve problems
involving functions
given parametrically
and how to derive
Maclaurin and Taylor
series
Page 80 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Physics
Page 81 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Chemistry
Page 82 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14
Grade descriptors for Biology
Page 83 of 83
PD_QUS_12 L3IFDHES Qualification Unit Specification v1.14