What changes are taking place for AS Biology B (and other sciences) in summer 2021?
Where it is not possible for students to carry out some of the 8 mandatory Core Practical activities themselves, it is permitted for them to observe demonstrations and/or simulations of these activities.
This will ensure that students will still gain knowledge and understanding of the practical apparatus and techniques which form part of the specification content, and may be assessed in written exams.
What changes are taking place for A level Biology B (and other sciences) in summer 2021?
The 16 Core Practical activities remain part of the specification content and centres should carry out as many of these activities as they can, whilst assessing against CPAC.
However, if it is not possible for students to carry out all of the Core Practicals, they may still be awarded a “Pass” for the Practical Endorsement, as long as they have shown competency in the CPAC statements across the practical activities they have carried out.
Where a Core Practical activity needs to be omitted, teachers should ensure that the activity is covered in another way e.g. by demonstration or simulation. This will ensure that students will still gain knowledge and understanding of the practical apparatus and techniques which form part of the specification content, and may be assessed in written exams.
There is no official minimum number of practicals that students have to carry out to demonstrate competency in CPAC in 2021. Please discuss your situation with your tutor, undertake as many practical activities as possible and look out for further announcements from Edexcel.
