Practical assessment skills
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Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills
P3.1Manipulation, measurement and observation
Identify independent and dependent variables; choose suitable ranges, intervals and at least five values where required; decide how to vary the independent variable; decide how to measure the dependent variable; choose replicates, controls and variables to standardise.
P3.2Microscopy skills and biological drawings
Set up and use a light microscope; make temporary stained slides; observe tissues, cells and structures; draw plan diagrams and cell drawings with correct proportions, observable features, labels, clear lines and no shading; use scale bars, eyepiece graticules and stage micrometers to calculate actual sizes.
P3.3Collection of data and observations
Follow instructions to collect quantitative results and qualitative observations; take accurate readings; consider hazards from procedures, solutions and reagents; assess risk as low, medium or high; measure tissues or cells; count cells or organelles; record observable similarities and differences.
P3.4Recording data and observations
Record raw and processed results in suitable tables with descriptive headings, units in headings rather than table bodies, the independent variable placed before the dependent variable, appropriate decimal places and clear qualitative descriptions.
P3.5Calculations, significant figures and reasoning
Display calculations clearly with all steps and reasoning; use the correct number of significant figures, normally the same as or one more than the smallest number of significant figures in the data used.
P3.6Graphs, charts, histograms and observation layout
Choose graphs for continuous data, bar charts for discontinuous or categoric data and histograms for frequency data; label axes with units; scale axes appropriately; plot points accurately; draw best-fit lines or ruled joins where appropriate; avoid unsupported extrapolation; organise microscope drawings and comparative observations clearly.
P3.7Interpreting data and observations
Use graphs to find unknown values; estimate unknown concentrations; identify unknown biological molecules; identify anomalous results; describe patterns and trends; evaluate confidence in conclusions; compare observable features from slides and photomicrographs.
P3.8Conclusions, errors, improvements and extensions
Summarise conclusions; state whether a hypothesis is supported; make predictions; explain observations, patterns and trends; identify systematic and random errors; suggest specific improvements to accuracy, standardisation, intervals and replicates; propose extensions to investigate a new question or context.
P3.9Apparatus, materials and laboratory safety
Be familiar with standard Paper 3 apparatus, common biological reagents, hazard labels and safe laboratory practice; understand that centres provide apparatus and confidential instructions may specify exact materials.