22. Assessed scientific skills
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22.1 Handling information and problem-solving
22.1.1Locate, select, organise and present information
• Locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources.
22.1.2Translate information between forms
• Translate information between verbal, symbolic, graphical and numerical forms.
22.1.3Manipulate numerical and other data
• Manipulate numerical and other data accurately.
22.1.4Identify patterns, trends and conclusions
• Use information to identify patterns, report trends and form conclusions.
22.1.5Explain phenomena and relationships
• Present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships.
22.1.6Make evidence-based predictions
• Make predictions based on relationships and patterns.
22.1.7Solve qualitative and quantitative problems
• Solve problems, including problems of a quantitative nature and unfamiliar applications of syllabus principles.
22.2 Experimental skills and investigations
22.2.1Select and safely use techniques and apparatus
• Demonstrate knowledge of how to select and safely use techniques, apparatus and materials, including following a sequence of instructions where appropriate.
22.2.2Plan experiments and investigations
• Plan experiments and investigations with suitable variables, methods, apparatus and safety controls.
22.2.3Record observations and measurements
• Make and record observations, measurements and estimates with appropriate precision and units.
22.2.4Interpret and evaluate experimental data
• Interpret and evaluate experimental observations and data, including patterns, anomalies and limitations.
22.2.5Evaluate and improve methods
• Evaluate experimental methods and suggest possible improvements.
22.3 Mathematical and data-presentation skills
22.3.1Numerical and algebraic calculations
• Add, subtract, multiply and divide; use decimals, fractions, ratios, reciprocals, percentages, percentage change and standard form; round to appropriate decimal places or significant figures; use direct and inverse proportion; solve simple equations and substitute quantities into formulas.
22.3.2Geometry, measurement and biological scales
• Convert units including cm³ and dm³, mg, g and kg, and μm, mm, cm and m; use areas and volumes of common shapes, rulers, estimates, scale diagrams and surface-area-to-volume ratios; select appropriate units.
22.3.3Graphs, charts and statistics
• Draw and interpret line graphs, bar charts, pie charts and equal-interval histograms; interpolate and extrapolate; determine gradients and intercepts with units; select scales and axes; recognise proportionality; calculate means and ranges; use simple probability.
22.3.4Record readings and tabulated data
• Record readings to the precision of the instrument with correct units and significant figures; head table columns with quantity and unit separated by a solidus; omit units from table bodies.
22.3.5Plot, analyse and present biological data
• Plot independent and dependent variables on correctly labelled axes using sensible scales; mark points accurately; draw justified best-fit lines or curves; read by interpolation or extrapolation; produce clear biological drawings and appropriate pie or bar charts.