APP in Science
This describes how you are assessed in science, using the national APP criteria.
There are four assessment foci, AF1–AF5, each of which has four threads (e.g. AF3.1–AF3.4).
AF1 —
Thinking scientifically
- using models for and in explanations
- Weighing up evidence to construct arguments and explanations
- The process of development of scientific ideas including the role of the scientific community in their development
- Provisional nature of scientific evidence
AF2 —
Understanding the applications and implications of science
- Effect of societal norms (political, social, cultural, economic) on science
- Creative use of scientific ideas to bring about technological developments
- Implications, benefits and drawback of scientific and technological development of society and the environment
- How science relates to jobs and roles
AF3 —
Communicating and collaborating in science
- Using appropriate presentation skills to enhance communication of scientific findings and arguments
- Explaining ideas and evidence using appropriate conventions, terminology and symbols
- Presenting a range of views judging any possible misrepresentation
- Scientists communicating worldwide using conventions
AF4 —
Using investigative approaches
- To effectively plan appropriate scientific investigations.
- To identify and manipulate variables within the context of an investigation
- To support the gathering of evidence through collection of precise and reliable data
- To be aware of the risks associated with the investigative process
AF5 —
Working critically with evidence
- Evaluation of the planning and implementation of scientific investigations.
- Consideration of errors and anomalies
- Processing and analysing data to support the evaluation process and draw conclusions.
- Explanation and evaluation of evidence to support the scientific process
The information on this page is © Crown copyright 2010. Originally published by the Department for
Children, Schools and Families in Learning targets in Science
Used here under the Open Government License terms.
The Coalition Government took office on 11 May 2010. This information was published prior to that date
and may not reflect current government policy. (Consult the Department for Education website for updated policy and resources.)