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Original poster

Can grades from Btec Science be corelated to achievement at GCSE Science?

41 replies

KatyMac · 14/01/2012 18:44

DD is doing Btech Science (in yr 9), based on her results the school decides whether she does science, double or triple.
They seem to be on a "the more GCSEs the better kick" so I need a realistic idea of which one she should aim for based on her grade
Could any of you help me work it all out? or is there not a direct correlation?

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EvilTwins · 14/01/2012 21:52

WRT KS3 levels, I teach BTEC performing arts to yr 9s. We equate these to KS3 levels for the purposes of reporting to parents and the govt. We tend to put passes as level 6, merits as 7 and distinctions as 8. Performing Arts is not a national curriculum subject though, so it's not as rigid.

Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:52

But not in time for DD

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MigratingCoconuts · 14/01/2012 21:52

Ok, I don't personally understand how she would have dropped two sub levels in a year. I, as a head of KS3, would not be happy with that reporting home. Something is not right there.

based on a 5b in year 8, I would definately insist that she does Double award science in year 10 and 11.

Hope you don't mind me saying, but having read the other thread too, this is a wierd school!!! Smile

EvilTwins · 14/01/2012 21:49

If it's BTEC level 2 then it's odd that they're doing it in Yr 9 and then going on to GCSE. A BTEC distinction is equivalent to an A at GCSE, though I'm sure lots of people will shout me down on that one. I'm not giving my opinion, nor am I interested in debate about whether that ought to be the case, but in terms of grades, BTEC distinction = GCSE A, BTEC merit = GCSE B and BTEC pass = GCSE C. I can see little merit in students taking BTEC science in yr 9 then going on to do GCSE, as both are level 2 qualifications. In the school in which I teach, some KS4 students do BTEC science rather than GCSE. Given that the rules about non GCSE qualifications are changing and schools will not be able to count more than 2 alternative qualifications per student in future, I wouldn't be surprised if your DD's school changes its apparent "quantity over quality" approach, OP.

Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:47

End of Yr7 she was 6a, End of Yr 8 she was 5b

That's not good is it?

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Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:44

On the parent portal is says KS2

I'll have a look at last years report

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MigratingCoconuts · 14/01/2012 21:43

But she must have a KS3 level for years 7 and 8 (and 9)...its a requirement that they report this level to both you and the Government!!

sorry, a bit Shock

Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:39

It is a state school - they have just mucked about with the GCSEs see here

It's complicated

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MigratingCoconuts · 14/01/2012 21:37

KS3 is done in year 7 and 8 (and usually 9 as well). So i am guessing this isn't a state school then. A KS2 level 5 is strong.

If your DD is not planning to do science A levels then do the 2 GCSE course and concentrate her efforts on what she will be doing. Even if she changes her mind, she can study A levels from double Science GCSEs

Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:33

Sorry I mean a 5 Blush

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Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:33

KS2 was a 3; when do they do KS3?

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Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 21:31

DD is unlikely to be doing A levels but I want her to be able to at some time in the future (when she is older)

They say if she gets a good enough grade she can do 3 science and if not only 2 or even 1

I would like her to do 2 I think as I am trying to reduce her workload

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MigratingCoconuts · 14/01/2012 21:29

Meant to add that i would consider 6a upwards for triple, as a general rule but level 7 would be better.

MigratingCoconuts · 14/01/2012 21:27

I have not heard of students in year 9 doing BTEC as a lead up to GCSEs. they are two entirely different courses!

What have the school said is their criteria for deciding who does what?

What did your DD get as a KS3 level?

sillybillies · 14/01/2012 21:25

I wouldn't think so as BTEC tends to be more about how organised and hardworking you are (sorry, little cynical about BTECs). I assuming those that score higher on the BTEC would indicate a harder working student so more likely to cope with 3 GCSE's rather than the 2 GSCE's especially if they are doing them in the same number of lessons.
However, disregarding the BTEC issue, I would recommend taking the 3 if there is any chance your DD might go onto to do science A levels.

Original poster
KatyMac · 14/01/2012 20:22

bump

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