Duration
1 day
Exam board
AQA, Edexcel A, Edexcel B, OCR A, OCR B

Develops practical science skills.

Availability & Prices

Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a stunning natural location and explore the diversity of nature. They will investigate a named habitat using sampling techniques in order to assess the biodiversity of that habitat and practise identifying and classifying a range of organisms. Sample data will be used to calculate species richness, evenness and diversity, including Simpson’s index of diversity. Factors that may affect biodiversity will be considered. The importance of carrying out baseline assessments in order to better maintain biodiversity will be stressed. Opportunities will be available to discuss how human activity is threatening species and conservation methods used within the habitats.

Example Timetable

This course usually runs from 9.30am – 4pm, but times can be adjusted to suit your group and travel plans. During your visit you will be welcome to the centre and given an appropriate health and safety briefing. Your session will start with an introduction to the day, aims and objectives. Throughout the day we will undertake fieldwork, collecting data appropriate to the topic. We will break for lunch, before continuing with our fieldwork. Depending on the day and the specific times of your visit we may include some data presentation and analysis and we will end the day with a summary including drawing conclusions and limitations. Please note that specific activities for your group are subject to change. We go out in all weathers and seasons and will tailor the content of the day accordingly.

How this course fulfills the specification
  • Practical Skills: Independent thinking, Use and application of scientific methods and practices, Research and referencing (Post course)
  • Use of apparatus and techniques: (a) (k)
  • Common Practical Assessment Criteria (2) (3) (4) (5 – Pre / Post course)
  • AQA: 4.5 Species and Taxonomy, 4.6 Biodiversity within a community
  • OCR A: 4.2.1 Biodiversity, 4.2.2 Classification and evolution, 6.3.2 Populations and sustainability, PAG3
  • OCR B: 3.1.3 The development of species: evolution and classification, 4.3.2 The impact of population increases
  • Edexcel A: Topic 4 Biodiversity and Natural Resources, CORE PRACTICAL 10
  • Edexcel B: Topic 3 Classification and Biodiversity

Added value of this course
  • Develop personal skills
  • Have fun
  • Be inspired by a passion for the subject
  • Build friendships

Why Choose Field Studies Council?

  • Expert tuition by fully trained staff

  • Stunning locations across the UK

  • Outstanding curriculum knowledge

  • Rigorous health and safety procedures

  • Support before and after your visit

  • Free places for visiting staff