AS/A Level GCECritical Thinking - H052 H452

The Advanced Subsidiary GCE specification gives an introduction to the concepts, principles and techniques which underlie Critical Thinking and expands their application to a range of contexts. It provides those candidates who do not wish to progress to A2 with a knowledge and understanding of Critical Thinking applicable to the study of a range of academic and vocational subjects. The A2 part of the Advanced GCE specification incorporates greater depth of understanding, analysis and evaluation across a wider range of contexts.

A Level Critical Thinking helps learners develop skills of analysis and evaluation, communication and problem solving. It also develops the capacity for methodical and critical thought which will serve as an end in itself as well as a basis for further study. These skills are of great benefit to learners in all subject areas, from arts and humanities to sciences and mathematics. The same set of skills is also required for study at Higher Education level. Learners will find Critical Thinking highly beneficial in preparation for a wide range of careers, including the fields of law, academic research (e.g. in the disciplines of science, arts or humanities), social science, journalism, medicine, business, accounting and engineering.

Officially, A Level in Critical Thinking is worth as many points as an A Level in any other subject area. For example an A grade at A2 Level is worth 120 points while a C grade at AS is worth 40 points. Many Higher Education institutions look favourably on Critical Thinking as a fourth AS/A Level, but may not include it as part of a conditional offer. Admission policies are likely to vary from University to University and from department to department within the same University. Centres and students are advised to seek advice from the University of their choice. However, It is certain that learners who wish to progress to Higher Education will benefit from the analytical and communication skills they developed during the course.

Critical Thinking is a relatively new area and we appreciate that you require support and channels for exchanging views and concerns with colleagues. The e-community list is intended to extend the support that OCR offers you by allowing virtual networks of those working with A Level Critical Thinking to share their knowledge, views and ideas.

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AS GCE Critical Thinking requires 180 guided learning hours in total. Advanced GCE Critical Thinking requires 360 guided learning hours in total. It should therefore be allocated equivalent resources to any other A Level subject. Some centres have adopted innovative approaches to delivering the subject through the use of self-study and working with very small groups. However, this type of approach is more appropriate for candidates who are very highly motivated.

Yes. In response to centre demand, OCR will be publishing past papers for live specifications on the website. These will be free of charge. Question papers from the latest series will be available to download from OCR Interchange only.

OCR is working in partnership with individual publishers for different subject groups. Comprehensive resources are being developed by these Publishing Partners and others to support the specification and complement the support available from OCR.

Schemes of work and lesson plans can be downloaded for each qualifcation. The materials are available in PDF format, and  Word format. Teachers can adapt the materials for their own use.

Yes, the A* grade is calculated arithmetically based on the units used for aggregation, irrespective of whether or not they are re-sits.