international foundation year student handbook handbook 2011-12...using spoken and written english...

International Foundation Year Student Handbook

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ContentsStructure of the programme 2

Term dates 2011-2012 6

Subject descriptions and assessment methods 8

Assessment weightings 12

Assessment schedule 14

Assignment deadlines 18

Progression grades 19

Frequently asked questions – assessment 24

Assignment Front Sheet 26

Mitigating circumstances 28

Attendance 31

IntroductionWelcome to the University of Bath International Foundation Year. We are delighted that you have chosen to join one of the UK’s most prestigious foundation year courses, leading to a top ten UK university and a great undergraduate experience.We are now in our 13th year of delivering this programme, working closely with the University of Bath to ensure you are provided with a high quality programme of study. We hope you will enjoy your time on the course and take advantage of the resources, facilities and support we offer.

The programme is run at four colleges in the south of England: City of Bath College, Chichester College, Greenwich Community College and Wiltshire College Salisbury. You can be sure that wherever you are studying, you will be assured of the highest quality teaching and learning experience, and excellent support while you are here in the UK.

This handbook gives you key information about the International Foundation Year. We recommend you keep it in a safe place as you will need to refer to it throughout the course, along with the University of Bath handbook and your general college handbook. It gives you information about your specific programme of study, the sources of support available to you and the standard of achievement expected from you.

We hope you enjoy your studies with us, and that you work hard and progress to your chosen degree at the University of Bath.

Sarah Pigott Programme Director

[email protected]

01225 328558

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Structure of the programme

OverviewThe programme is designed to widen access for students whose qualifications or experience, while generally acceptable for entry to higher education, are not appropriate for direct entry to a degree programme.

The University of Bath International Foundation Year is the ‘Year Zero’ component of an undergraduate degree and it has been designed to cover the key principles, theories, terminology, definitions and practical skills introduced in the A Level syllabuses which are the standard entry criteria for the University of Bath.

The International Foundation Year is delivered by partner institutions of the University of Bath as a modular course divided into two 15-week semesters and covers a range of subjects including sciences,

engineering, management, and social sciences. Students choose their units according to their intended degree programme. They take three subjects relevant to their intended degree programme in Semester 1 and continue with two of these subjects in Semester 2. Second semester units develop the students’ knowledge and skills in the chosen subject areas.

Students may progress to their intended undergraduate degree programme at the University of Bath provided they achieve the qualifying grades in the required subjects. Students who do not progress on to a University of Bath undergraduate programme may, however, achieve grades which permit entry on to a programme at another higher education institution. The partner institution will support students in their applications to other institutions.

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Aims of the programme1. To provide an opportunity

for students to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to enable them to progress to, and be successful on, their intended undergraduate Honours degree programme at the University of Bath.

2. To provide a route to UK undergraduate degree programmes for international students from a wide range of backgrounds and qualifications who meet the International Foundation Year entry requirements.

3. To foster a positive approach to the acquisition of knowledge and skills in order to promote lifelong learning.

4. To acknowledge the importance of the diverse cultural background of students on the programme.

Intended learning outcomes On successful completion of the programme it is expected that students will be able to:

Knowledge and understanding:• demonstrate a foundation of

underpinning knowledge and skills in their chosen subjects

• develop their understanding in their chosen area to a level required for entry to the intended Honours degree programme at the University of Bath

Intellectual skills: • demonstrate basic skills in

analysis and evaluation using defined techniques and/or tutor guidance

• demonstrate an ability to collect and categorize ideas and information

• apply basic problem-solving skills

Professional/practical skills: • demonstrate competence

in the basic laboratory skills relating to their chosen discipline (for science students)

Transferable/key skills: • manage their own roles,

responsibilities and time• demonstrate the ability to

undertake independent learning

• communicate effectively using spoken and written English

• manage tasks, and identify and solve problems using information sources

• demonstrate competency in information technology skills

• apply numerical skills and techniques.

Teaching, learning and assessment methods Our teaching methods range from lectures and seminars to practical experiments and group work. Students are set regular assessments both in class time and for homework.

Assessment is through two examination sessions, along with written coursework, and practical sessions (for the science students). Mathematics students are expected to sit two phase tests, one in each semester.

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Structure and content of the programme The University of Bath credit framework conforms to the European Credit Transfer System.

The choice of units is determined by a student’s intended degree programme and by whether or not a student needs additional English language support.

The International Foundation Year is delivered by the partner institutions of the University of Bath in two 15-week semesters. Students choose their units according to their intended degree programme. In each semester you will study two major subjects and either English for Academic Purposes or one minor subject and a mandatory study skills unit.

Students whose first language is English take three units in Semester 1 (2 major units and 1 minor unit) and two units (2 major units) in Semester 2 (total 60 credits). Those students whose first language is not English but who, after an initial English language assessment, are deemed not to require any additional English language support, will also follow this pattern.

Students whose first language is not English and who, following an initial English language assessment, are deemed to need additional English language support, will be required to take English for Academic Purposes 1 in Semester 1 instead of the minor unit. They will then also be required to take English for Academic Purposes 2 in Semester 2 (total 60 credits).

All students take the Introduction to Higher Education (HE) Study Skills unit. This does not attract any credit but students must pass this in order to progress onto their intended degree programme at the University of Bath.

Students who do not progress on to a University of Bath undergraduate programme may, however, achieve grades which permit entry on to a programme at another HE institution. Your college will support you in your applications to other institutions via UCAS.

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Unit choices The choice of units is determined by your intended degree programme and by whether or not you need to work on your English language.

Semester 1Either 3 units (2 major and 1 minor) from the following (36 credits), or 2 units (2 majors) from the following and English for Academic Purposes 1 (30 credits):

• Biology 1• Business 1• Chemistry 1• Microeconomics 1• Mathematics 1• Social Science 1• Physics 1• HE Study Skills

Semester 2Either 2 units from the following, continuing the major subjects taken in Semester 1 (24 credits), or two units (continuing the major units taken in Semester 1) and English for Academic Purposes 2 (30 credits):

• Biology 2• Business 2• Chemistry 2• Macroeconomics• Mathematics 2• Social Science 2• Physics 2• HE Study Skills

All students must also attend weekly tutorials. You will have both one-to-one sessions and group sessions with your tutor, who will monitor your overall progress and help you to plan your learning.

Changing your target degree You may decide early in the course that you wish to change your choice of target degree or the individual subjects you are studying. It may be possible for you to do this as long as you make that decision soon after the start of the programme.

The deadline for making changes to subject or degree choice is 23 September 2011. Any requests for changes must be made to your Programme Leader, who will then pass the request on to the University of Bath for consideration. After 23rd September it will not be possible for you to change your target degree. You cannot change your target degree into the School of Management if you have not been admitted into this pathway from the beginning.

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Term dates 2011-2012

Month Semester 1 Dates

Sep-11 New students arrive and settle in from:

Welcome event at college

College induction

Maths and English assessments

University of Bath induction

Classes begin

Last date to change target degree

03/09/2011

04/09/2011

05/09/2011 to 07/09/2011

05/09/2011 to 07/09/2011

08/09/2011 to 10/09/2011

12/09/2011

23/09/2011

Oct-11 Student Staff Liaison Committee MeetingsCity of Bath CollegeWiltshire College SalisburyChichester College Greenwich Community College

Mid-semester break (half-term)

Classes recommence

18/10/201119/10/201120/10/201121/10/2011

24/10/2011 to 28/10/2011

31/10/2011

Dec-11 Student Staff Liaison Committee MeetingsCity of Bath CollegeWiltshire College SalisburyChichester College Greenwich Community College

Semester 1 classes end

Christmas and New Year break

06/12/201107/12/201108/12/201109/12/2011

16/12/2011

19/12/2011 to 04/01/2012

Jan-12 Colleges re-open (subject to local arrangements)

Semester 1 examinations

05/01/2012

16/01/2012 to 20/01/2012

Semester 1

Do not travel during exam weeks and resit weeks, you will not be permitted to take exams at any other time.

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Month Semester 2 Dates

Jan-12 Classes begin 23/01/2012

Feb-12 Results available for examinations from Semester 1

Mid-semester break (half-term)

Classes recommence

24/02/2012

13/02/2012 to 17/02/2012

20/02/2012

Mar-12 Student Staff Liaison Committee MeetingsCity of Bath CollegeWiltshire College SalisburyChichester College Greenwich Community College

Easter break NB. Resits take place during Easter break

13/03/201214/03/201215/03/201216/03/2012

02/04/2012-13/04/2012

Apr-12 Resit examinations (This is the only opportunity to resit exams)

Classes recommence

02/04/2012 to 04/04/2012

16/04/2012

May-12 Student Staff Liaison Committee MeetingsCity of Bath CollegeWiltshire College SalisburyChichester College Greenwich Community College

Semester 2 examinations

08/05/201209/05/211210/05/201211/05/2012

28/05/2012 to 01/06/2012

Jul-12 Results available week commencing (subject to confirmation)

23/07/2012

Semester 2

Do not travel during exam weeks and resit weeks, you will not be permitted to take exams at any other time.

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Subject descriptions and assessment methods

BiologyThe unit develops the essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of biology, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations. In Semester 1 your studies will include molecules, cells and systems and in Semester 2 you will look at inheritance, evolution and ecosystems, physiology and environment. You will work in laboratories to gain competence in basic laboratory techniques. This unit encourages students to:• develop an understanding of

scientific methods• be aware of advances

in technology, including information technology, relevant to biology

• recognise the value and responsible use of biology in society

• sustain and develop their enjoyment of, and interest in, biology

• show knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of biology and to make and use connections between them.

BusinessThis unit develops a good foundation of underpinning knowledge and skills in business. The first semester studies the nature of business and key business functions of marketing, finance and human resources. In the second semester we examine the impact of change on business and the laws affecting businesses, and we look in more detail at the key area of finance.

On completion of the unit students should be able to:• Explain what a business is

by reference to business structures and objectives

• Explain the main methods of market research

• Identify the key features of the marketing mix

• Draw and calculate the break-even point

• Explain the main theories of motivation

• Explain the main management and leadership styles

• Explain how internal change can affect businesses

• Identify the main external changes affecting businesses and explain their impact on a business

• Prepare the main financial statements used in business and calculate and explain financial ratios based on the financial statements

• Carry out basic investment appraisal techniques and make recommendations based on their results

• Explain how contract and consumer protection law impact on businesses within the context of the UK legal system and EU law.

Full descriptions of each unit can be found on the University of Bath Moodle site for your course, and on the University of Bath International Foundation Year website at www.bathfoundationyear.com

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ChemistryThis unit aims to ensure that students have a basic knowledge of and skills in chemistry. The unit will draw upon core aspects of the AS level syllabus and will achieve an equivalent depth and standard in these aspects. The unit will offer opportunities for knowledge acquisition, theoretical problem-solving and the development of practical laboratory skills.

In the first semester you will study atomic structure and bonding. You will gain understanding of the physical and chemical properties of major homologous series and knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of Groups 2 and 7, periods 2 and 3 and the transition metals. The work in Semester 2 will build on the studies in Semester 1 and will include relevant calculations as well as further work on transition metals. You will work in laboratories to gain competence in basic laboratory techniques.

On successful completion of the unit, students should be able to:• Recognise, recall and show

understanding of chemical concepts and facts

• Select, organise and communicate relevant information in a variety of formats, including ICT

• Analyse and evaluate chemical knowledge and processes, both theoretical and practical

• Apply chemical knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations including those related to technological, environmental and medical issues

• Assess the validity, reliability and credibility of chemical information

• Demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques and processes, selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods

• Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy

• Critically analyse and evaluate the methodology of experiments and the data generated by them.

EconomicsThis unit aims to ensure that students have a foundation of underpinning knowledge and skills in microeconomics. The unit will draw upon core aspects of the A Level syllabus and will achieve an equivalent depth and standard in these aspects.

The unit will seek to ensure students develop and enhance other core competencies such as research skills, problem solving skills, effective communication skills and ICT.

In the first semester you will study microeconomics, including demand and supply, markets and costs. In the second semester you will study macroeconomics, including national and international economy, fiscal and monetary policy.

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:• Explain theoretical concepts

relating to the economic problem, scarcity and choice, opportunity cost and economic systems

• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of the free market system to allocate resources

• Conduct elasticity calculations and interpret results

• Apply theories of market structures to case study industries

• Identify the failure of the free market system and evaluate government policy to correct these market failures

• Explain wage determination and employment in the labour market and derive the profit maximising level of employment for firms in perfect and imperfect labour markets

• Explain the role of trade unions, identify labour market failure and evaluate government policy to correct this market failure

• Explain the economic linkages between households and firms, and injections and withdrawals from this.

• Understand the determinants of aggregate demand and aggregate supply and how these determine the national income

• Be able to explain the multiplier and discuss the significance for fiscal policy

• Analyse the possibility of an inverse relationship between inflation and unemployment and consider whether it exists in practice

• Evaluate the government’s policies to control the economy through fiscal, monetary and supply side policy

• Be able to explain the various accounts of the balance of payments and discuss what factors influence the demand for exports and imports (e.g. the real exchange rate, foreign income, domestic income).

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Mathematics In the first semester you will gain a foundation in the underpinning knowledge and skills in mathematics, including indices and surds, algebra and trigonometry. This is developed in the second semester and will draw upon more advanced aspects of the A Level syllabus, including functions, sketch curves and numerical methods.

Further Mathematics This unit aims to bring students with maths ability equivalent to A Level towards a higher level of mathematical knowledge. The unit will draw upon more advanced aspects of the A Level syllabus and parts of the Further Maths syllabus. This unit will offer opportunities for knowledge acquisition and practice of standard methods of solution.

Physics This unit aims to ensure that students have a foundation of underpinning knowledge and skills in physics. The unit will draw upon core aspects of the A Level syllabus and will achieve an equivalent depth and standard in these aspects. The unit will offer opportunities for knowledge acquisition, theoretical problem-solving and the development of practical laboratory skills.

In the first semester you will learn about DC electricity, structures, balanced forces, dynamics, vibrations and waves. You will also learn to perform basic applied mathematical calculations and gain competence in basic laboratory techniques. In the second semester you will continue your studies by learning about gravitation, electromagnetism and energy transfer. You will also learn to perform basic power and energy calculations and make accurate observations and records of experimental work.

On successful completion of this unit, students should be able to: • Demonstrate a knowledge

of DC electricity, structures, balanced forces, dynamics, vibrations and waves

• Perform basic applied mathematical calculations

• Demonstrate competence in basic laboratory techniques

• Demonstrate a knowledge of gravitation, electromagnetism and energy transfer

• Perform basic power and energy calculations

• Make accurate observations and records of experimental work.

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Social Science This unit aims to ensure that students have a foundation of knowledge and skills in social science. The unit will draw upon core aspects of the GCE AS syllabuses of psychology, sociology and politics and will achieve an equivalent depth and standard in these aspects.

On successful completion of the unit, students should be able to:• Explain the nature of

democracy• Demonstrate an

understanding of definitions of abnormality

• Demonstrate an understanding of the features of eating disorders and the models used to explain them

• Describe explanations of the role of education in industrialised society

• Distinguish sociological explanations for differential educational achievement of social groups by social class, and/or gender and/or ethnicity

• Describe relationships and processes within schools with particular reference to teacher/pupil relationships, pupil subcultures, the hidden curriculum and the organisation of teaching and learning

• Demonstrate the use of academic conventions.

English for Academic Purposes Students will take an initial assessment during induction week to decide if this unit option is appropriate for them. The aim of the unit is to ensure that students have a foundation of academic English and study skills to enable them to study successfully on the International Foundation Year and to prepare them for higher education.

On successful completion of the unit, within their chosen field, students should be able to: • Plan tasks and assignments

effectively • Obtain and use information

from a range of sources to meet the purpose of a task or activity

• Recognise which information is relevant

• Organize relevant information clearly and coherently

• Produce short, clear and relevant written and oral assignments (such as summaries, reports, essays, oral presentations) appropriate to purpose and situation

• Listen and respond appropriately in academic contexts

• Achieve an enhanced IELTS score in all four skills in Semester 2 (where this option is taken).

Higher Education (HE) Study Skills The aim of the unit is to ensure that students have a good grounding in the intellectual, professional, practical and key skills required to continue to a first degree at the University of Bath.

You will cover the following:

Intellectual skills• Research skills• Academic writing skills• Expressing skills of analysis,

synthesis and evaluation

Professional skills• Reflective practice • Practical skills• Prioritising time and tasks• Self-organisation and

management

Key skills• Communication• Application of number• Information and

communication technology• Working with others• Improving own learning and

performance• Problem solving.

Assessment for Study Skills is 100% based on evidence generated during the course of the year and presented as a portfolio. At least 80% attendance at classes is also required to pass this unit.

Study Skills is an essential component and if you do not pass this unit you will fail the entire programme. It is essential therefore that you attend all classes and submit your portfolio of evidence on time.

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Normal period of study for this Mode

Unit code Unit title Credits Assignment weighting Exams weighting

Semester 1 AS00040 Mathematics 1 12 Phase test 20% 3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 TBC Further Mathematics 1 12 Phase test 20% 3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00044 Physics 1 12 2 lab reports 20%; equal weighting 10% each

3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00031 Chemistry 1 12 2 lab reports 20%; equal weighting 10% each

3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00027 Biology 1 12 2 lab reports 20%; equal weighting 10% each

3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00029 Business 1 12 3 assignments 30% ; equal weighting 10% each; Oral presentation 10%

3 hr exam 60%

Semester 1 AS00033 Microeconomics 12 2 assignments 20%; equal weighting 10% each; Oral presentation 10%

3 hr exam 70%

Semester 1 AS00046 Social Science 1 12 2 essays 30%; equal weighting 15% each

3 hr exam 70%

Semester 1 AS00288 English for Academic Purposes 1

6 3 assignments 50%; short essay 20%, summary/ lab report 15%, listening assessment 15%

3 hr exam 50%

Semester 1 is weighted 40% overall.

Assessment weightings

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3 hr exam 80%


3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00027 Biology 1 12 2 lab reports 20%; equal weighting 10% each

3 hr exam 80%

Semester 1 AS00029 Business 1 12 3 assignments 30% ; equal weighting 10% each; Oral presentation 10%

3 hr exam 60%

Semester 1 AS00033 Microeconomics 12 2 assignments 20%; equal weighting 10% each; Oral presentation 10%

3 hr exam 70%


3 hr exam 70%


6 3 assignments 50%; short essay 20%, summary/ lab report 15%, listening assessment 15%

3 hr exam 50%







3 hr exam 80%


3 hr exam 80%

Semester 2 AS00028 Biology 2 12 Evaluative lab report 15% and presentation 5%

3 hr exam 80%

Semester 2 AS00030 Business 2 12 4 assignments 40%; equal weighting 10% each

3 hr exam 60%

Semester 2 AS00034 Macroeconomics 12 2 assignments 20%; equal weighting 10% each; Oral presentation 10%

3 hr exam 70%


3 hr exam 70%


6 3 assignments 50%; listening 15%: project 20%: Presentation 15%.

3 hr exam 50%


All Year AS00366 Introduction to HE Study Skills

0 Portfolio 100%

Note: Semester 1 students study EITHER 3 units from the above (36 credits in total) OR 2 units from the above and EAP 6 credit unit (30 credits in total)

Semester 2 students study EITHER 2 units, continuing the subjects taken in Semester 1 (24 credits in total) OR 2 units from the above (continuing the units taken in Semester 1) and EAP 6 credit unit (30 credits in total)

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Assessment schedule

Business and Humanities pathways Assessment schedule - Semester 1

Subject Assignment 1 Assignment 2 Assignment 3 Assignment 4 Examination (week commencing)

BusinessSet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

26/09/2011

14/10/2011

10/10/2011

11/11/2011

31/10/2011

21/11/2011

21/11/2011

12/12/2011

16/01/2012

EconomicsSet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

19/09/2011

07/10/2011

17/10/2011

18/11/2011

17/10/2011

18/11/2011

16/01/2012

Social Science Set in week commencing

Hand in deadline

26/09/2011

17/10/2011

17/10/2011

21/11/2011

16/01/2012

MathsPhase Test

11/11/2011 16/01/2012

English For BusinessPart A Part B

Hand in deadline Part A Part B

(Essay) 26/09/2011 07/11/2011

14/10/2011 25/11/2011

(Listening) 07/11/2011 28/11/2011 (Summary/lab

report) 05/12/2011 16/01/2010

Study Skills Final Deadline 11/05/2012

Business pre-exam case study will be issued week commencing 12/12/2011. Business pre-exam case study will be issued week commencing 19/03/2012.

All re-sits take place 02/04/2012 - 04/04/2012.

The assignment set dates show the week in which you receive the assignment, you will be given exact dates nearer the time. All dates for deadlines are the last date by which you can hand in your work and obtain a full mark.

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Business and Humanities pathways Assessment schedule - Semester 2

Subject Assignment 1 Assignment 2 Assignment 3 Assignment 4 Examination (week commencing)

BusinessSet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

23/01/2012

10/02/2012

27/02/2011

16/03/2012

12/03/2012

27/04/2012

23/04/2012

11/05/2012

28/05/2012

EconomicsSet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

30/01/2012

17/02/2012

05/03/2012

23/03/2012

30/04/2012

18/03/2012

28/05/2012

Social Science Set in week commencing

Hand in deadline

16/01/2012

20/02/2012

20/02/2012

19/03/2012

28/05/2012

MathsPhase Test

20/04/2012 28/05/2012

English For BusinessPart A Part B


(Listening) 12/03/2012 14/05/2012

14/10/2011 25/11/2011

(Research project) 07/11/2011

27/04/2012

(Presentation) 12/03/2012

07/05/2012

28/05/2012

Study Skills Final deadline 11/05/2012

Business pre-exam case study will be issued week commencing 07/05/2012.

All re-sits take place week commencing 02/04/2012.

The assignment set dates show the week in which you receive the assignment, you will be given exact dates near the time. All dates for deadlines are the last date by which you can hand in your work and obtain a full mark.

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Science pathways Assessment schedule - Semester 1

Subject Assignment 1 Assignment 2 Assignment 3 Examination (week commencing)

BiologySet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

20/10/2011

20/11/2011

15/11/2011

18/12/2011

16/01/2012

ChemistrySet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

15/11/2011

07/10/2011

29/11/2011

16/12/2012

16/01/2012

Physics Set in week commencing

Hand in deadline

03/10/2011

17/10/2011

07/11/2011

21/11/2011

16/01/2012

MathsPhase Tests

11/11/2011 16/01/2012

English For SciencePart A (Essay) Part B (Essay)


26/09/2011 07/11/2011

14/10/2011 25/11/2011

07/11/2011 28/11/2011

05/12/2011

16/01/2010

16/01/2010



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Science pathways Assessment schedule - Semester 2

Subject Assignment 1 Assignment 2 Assignment 3 Examination (week commencing)

BiologySet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

19/01/2012

03/05/2012

15/11/2011

18/12/2011

28/05/2012

ChemistrySet in week commencing

Hand in deadline

06/02/2012

02/03/2012

29/11/2011

16/12/2012

28/05/2012

Physics Set in week commencing

Hand in deadline

27/02/2012

12/03/2012

23/04/2012

07/05/2012

28/05/2012

MathsPhase Tests

11/11/2011 28/05/2012

English For SciencePart A (Listening) Part B (Listening)


12/03/2012 14/05/2012

(Research project) 12/03/2012

27/04/2012

(Presentation) 12/03/2012

11/05/2012

28/05/2012



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Assignment deadlines

All assignments must be handed in on the date set in the assessment schedule. The penalties for not doing so are potentially severe.

A deadline will be set for each piece of work or assessment. It is very important that you keep to your deadlines. Extensions beyond a deadline may be granted only in exceptional circumstances. You must meet the deadline to achieve the full mark.

If work is handed in later than 5 working days beyond the deadline date without an extension it will normally receive a mark of 0. All extensions must be agreed before the hand in date. If you do not have an agreed extension then the mark will be capped. The final decision to allow an extension will be made by the Programme Leader.

If you hand in an Extension Form, signed by the lecturer, with an overdue assessment, you may be awarded the full mark if your work meets the standards.

How do I request an extension to an assessment deadline?Your lecturer may agree to an extension beyond an assessment deadline if there are good reasons for the decision, such as illness. To request an extension, you must contact the subject lecturer before the deadline date and

• Fill in a "Request for an Extension" form

• Ask the lecturer to sign it• Attach the form to the

assessment when you hand it in.

Do I have to pass all assignments and tests?Your final grade for each subject will be based on a weighted average taking account of grades for all assignments and exams. It is possible to pass the course without passing all assignments and exams but a lower final grade can be expected as a consequence.

Can allowance be made for illness or other problems?If you are unwell when completing assessed coursework or sitting examinations, or if you have any other specific difficulties which may affect your performance in assessed coursework or examinations, you should notify the Programme Leader in writing of the circumstances as soon as possible, and make immediate arrangements for medical certificates or other letters of support to be submitted. This is known as Mitigating Circumstances. University Regulation 15.3(d) specifies that notification of mitigating circumstances must be made no later than three days after completion of examinations. Forms to claim mitigating circumstances are available from the Programme Leader. Please refer to your University of Bath Learning Partnerships Handbook for full details of mitigating circumstances procedures. Forms to claim mitigating circumstances are available from the Programme Leader.

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Major 1 Major 2 Minor

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY

BSc (hons) Biochemistry (3 year or 4 year with placement)

B Biology B Chemistry B

BSc (hons) Biology (3 year or 4 year with placement)


BSc (hons) Molecular and Cellular Biology (3 year or 4 year with placement)


MBiol (hons) Molecular and Cellular Biology (4 years)


MBiochem (hons) Biochemistry (4 years)


DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

MEng Aerospace Engineering (4 year or 5 year with placement)

A Maths A Physics A

MEng Automotive Engineering (4 year or 5 year with placement)

A Maths A Physics A

MEng Mechanical Engineering with Advanced Design and Innovation (4 year or 5 year with placement

A Maths A Physics A

MEng Mechanical Engineering with Manufacturing and Management (4 year or 5 year with placement)

A Maths A Physics A

MEng Mechanical Engineering (4 year or 5 year with placement)

A Maths A Physics A

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

BSc Chemistry (3 year, 4 year with placement or 4 year with study-year abroad)

A Chemistry B B

BSc Chemistry for Drug Discovery (3 year, 4 year with placement or 4 year with study-year abroad)

A Chemistry B B

BSc Chemistry with Management (3 year, 4 year with placement or 4 year with study-year abroad)

A Chemistry B B

MChem Chemistry (4 year with placement or with study-year abroad)

A Chemistry B B

MChem Chemistry for Drug Discovery (4 year with placement or with study-year abroad)

A Chemistry B B

Progression grades

The following are the grades required to guarantee a student's progression from the International Foundation Year 2011-2012 to the intended degree.

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DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

BSc Computer Science (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)

A Maths B Further Maths

A A

BSc Computer Information Systems (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)

A A A

BSc in Computer Science with Business (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)

A A A

BSc in Computer Science with Mathematics (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)


A A

MComp in Computer Science (4 year or 5 year with placement or study abroad)


A A

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

Master of Mathematics (4 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)

A Maths (85% minimum) or A Further Maths

A A

BSc Mathematics (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)


A A

BSc Mathematical Sciences (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)


A A

BSc Mathematics & Statistics (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)


A A

BSc Statistics (3 year or 4 year with placement or study-year abroad)


A A

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCES

BSc Natural Sciences (with Physics) A Physics A Maths A

BSc Natural Sciences (3 year full-time, 4 year with Placement, 4 year with Study Year Abroad)

A Biology A Chemistry A

MSci Natural Sciences (Major Biology or Chemistry Only) (4 Year)


MSci Natural Sciences (Major Biology or Chemistry Only) (4 year or 5 year with placement or study abroad)


DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY

MPharm Master of Pharmacy (4 year)

A Chemistry A Biology B

BSc Pharmacology (4 year)

A Chemistry/Biology A Chemistry/Biology B

MPharmacol Master of Pharmacology (4 year)

A Chemistry/Biology A Chemistry/Biology B

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DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

BSc Physics (3 year) A Maths A Physics A

BSc Physics with Computing (3 year) A Maths A Physics A

MPhys Physics (4 year) A Maths A Physics A

BSc Mathematics and Physics (3 year) A Maths A Physics A

MSci Mathematics and Physics (4 year) A Maths A Physics A

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

MEng Chemical Engineering (4 year or 5 year with placement)

A Maths A Chemistry B

MEng Biochemical Engineering (4 year or 5 year with placement)


BEng Chemical Engineering (3 year or 4 year with placement)


BEng Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering (3 year or 4 year with placement)


DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE AND CIVIL ENGINEERING

MEng Civil & Architectural Engineering (4 year or 5 year thin sandwich)

A Maths A A

MEng in Civil Engineering (4 year with industrial project work)

A Maths A A

BEng in Civil Engineering (3 year or 4 year thin sandwich)

A Maths A A

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

BEng Electronic and Communication Engineering (3 year or 4 year sandwich)

B Maths B Physics B

MEng Electronic and Communication Engineering (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics B

BEng Computers, Electronics and Communications (3 year or 4 year sandwich)

B Maths B Physics B

MEng Computers, Electronics and Communications (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics B

BEng Electrical Power Engineering (3 year or 4 year sandwich)

B Maths B Physics B

MEng Electrical Power Engineering (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics B

BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering (3 year or 4 year sandwich)

B Maths B Physics B

MEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics B

BEng Electronics with Space Science & Technology (3 year or 4 year sandwich)

B Maths B Physics B

MEng Electronics with Space Science & Technology (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics B

MEng Integrated Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Degree (IMEED) (4 year or 5 year sandwich)

A Maths A Physics A

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DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

BSc Economics (3-year or 4-year with placement)

A Economics A Maths A

BSc Economics & Politics (3-year or 4-year with placement)


BSc Economics & International Development (3-year or 4-year with placement)


SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

BSc Business Administration (4 year with placement)

A Business A A

BSc Accounting & Finance (3 year or 4 year with placement)

A Maths A A

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL AND POLICY SCIENCES

BSc Sociology and Social Policy (3 year or 4 year with placement)

B B B

BSc Sociology (3-year or 4 year with placement)

B B B

BSc Sociology with Human Resource Management (4 year with placement)

B B B

BSc Social Policy and Administration (3-year or 4 year with placement)

B B B

BSc Social Work & Applied Social Studies (3-year with placement)

B B B

BSc Social Sciences (3-year or 4 year with placement)

B B B

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

BSc Psychology (4-year with placement)

A Social Science A A

SCHOOL FOR HEALTH

BSc Sport and Exercise Science (3 Year or 4 year with placement)

A (any Science/Maths) A (any Science/Maths) A

DEPARTMENT OF EUROPEAN STUDIES AND MODERN LANGUAGES

BSc Politics with Economics 3 year or 4 year with placement)

A A A

BA Politics and a European Language (Italian or Russian ONLY) (4 years with work placement/study placement/ teaching assistant)

A A B

BSc Politics with International Relations (3 year or 4 year with placement)

A A A

BSc International Management with a Modern Language (4 year with placement) With Spanish (students must hold an A2 level equivalent in either Spanish, French or German on entry to the IFY)

With Spanish A A A

With French A A B

With German A B B

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

BA Childhood, Youth & Education Studies (3-year or 4 year with professional placement)

A Social Science B B

BA Coach Education and Sports Development (3-year or 4 year with professional placement)

A Social Science A B

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All applicants are expected to have GSCE Maths grade C or above, or equivalent on entry to the International Foundation Year

English For Academic Purposes - Target Grades

School of Management A

Department of Economics and International Development A

Department of Psychology A

Department of Social and Policy Sciences B

Department of Education B

Department of Biology and Biochemistry B+

Department of Mechanical Engineering B

Department of Chemistry B

Department of Computer Science B+

Department of Mathematical Sciences B

Department of Natural Sciences B+

Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology B+

Department of Physics B

Department of Chemical Engineering B

Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering A

School for Health B

Department of European Studies and Modern Languages A

Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering B

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Q How will I be assessed on this course?

A You will be assessed by a combination of coursework assignments and examinations. The coursework assignments will take a variety of forms including presentations, timed essays, phase tests and written assignments. In addition you will sit an examination for each subject except Study Skills at the end of each semester.

Q What is an Assignment/Assessment Front Sheet?

A An Assignment Front Sheet is a document on which you fill in some preliminary information. You then attach it to your assessment. Your lecturer will complete sections for their comments. In other words, it accompanies and identifies your work and provides written feedback on your performance. You should also use it to help you to reflect on what actions you will take as a result of the lecturer’s feedback.

Q How soon can I expect my work to be returned to me?

A Return of normally submitted assignment work complies with the College Assessment Code of Practice. This means that it should be returned with written feedback within three working weeks. The return of examination grades will be subject to the University of Bath procedures and regulations.

Q What is an assessment recommendation?

A Unit grades are recommendations only until they are confirmed by the University of Bath’s Board of Examiners at the end of the year. Assessments of individual assignments and unit grades are provisional until they are confirmed by the Board of Examiners. At the end of Semester 1 there is a Unit Board which will consider students’ performance and progress in each of the units completed during the Semester and recommend whether students should retake Semester 1 examinations.

At the end of Semester 2 a full Exam Board will consider students’ performance in all units taken during the year and make recommendations with regard to achievement and progression.

You will be informed in writing of the recommendations of the Exam Board and decisions of the Board of Examiners affecting you.

Q How are assessment standards maintained and how does this affect me?

A Your lecturers continually check to ensure that their marking is fair and in line with the standards used by other lecturers teaching on the programme and with the standards required by the University of Bath. This process is referred to as moderation and typically includes the following:

•Eachlecturerwillprovidea sample of marked assignments to another lecturer who will check them to ensure the marking is fair and consistent.

•TheProgrammeLeaderwill be routinely required to submit a sample of assessed work for moderation to the Subject Moderator in each subject at the University of Bath.

Q Are there any requirements relating to the storage of assessed work?

A As a student you are responsible for ensuring that your work is stored safely. At the end of each semester you will be required to submit it to the University of Bath for standards moderation purposes.

Q How do I request a review of an assessment recommendation?

A Grades are not subject to review in the UOBIFY framework. Work is marked, internally verified, externally moderated and seem by the external examiner so when you receive your final mark, it will not be changed.

Frequently asked questions – assessment

Please refer to your University of Bath Handbook for a full list of assessment questions and answers.

25

Q What should I remember?

A In your written assignments: •Alwayscreditclearly

any source from whom/which you are reproducing information, data or results.

•Alwaysusequotationmarks when you quote someone else's work, and give the exact source of the quotation.

•Alwaysprovideabibliography where you list all the books and articles from which you have borrowed ideas, passages of text, quotations, data, or diagrams.

•Ifyouaren'tsureofsomething, ask your tutor for advice.

In your practical work •Alwayssubmityourown

work.

Q What is an assessment deadline and why is it important?

A A deadline will be set for each piece of work or assessment. It is very important that you keep to your deadlines. Extensions beyond a deadline may be granted only in exceptional circumstances. You must meet the deadline to achieve the full mark.

Q What is an assessment offence and will I be penalised if I commit an offence?

A You will be penalised if you present work for assessment that is, in whole or part, not your own. Attempts to deceive assessors in this way have the potential to devalue the qualification that you are working towards. Any deliberate attempt to undermine the assessment process will result in investigation and potential (serious) subsequent action. Examples of an examination or assessment offence include (Regulation 7.4h):

•Cheating,e.g.unauthorised reference to notes or course material in an examination.

•Fabrication,e.g.reportingon experiments never performed.

•Falsification,e.g.misrepresentation of the results of experimentation.

•Plagiarism,i.e.takingthewritings or ideas of another person and representing them as one's own.

•Duplicationofone'sownwork, i.e. submitting as if for the first time and without acknowledgement, content which has previously been assessed.

•Unfaircollaborationor collusion; i.e. the representation of work produced in collaboration with another person or persons as the work of a single candidate.

University of Bath International Foundation Year Assignment Front Sheet

Unit Name

Assignment Number Assignment Semester

Lecturer Student Name

To be completed by (dd-mm-yyyy) Handed in on (dd-mm-yyyy)

Assignment Grade (indicative grade) Note that this mark is subject to external moderation

By ticking this box:

I confirm that this assignment is entirely my own work.

I certify that I have read and understood the entry in the University of Bath Student Handbook for the International Foundation Year on Cheating and Plagiarism and that all material in this assignment is my own work, except where I have indicated with appropriate references. I agree that, in line with Regulation 15.3(e), if requested; I will submit an electronic copy of this work for submission to a Plagiarism Detection Service for quality assurance purposes.

Student Signature Date (dd-mm-yyyy)

Assessor’s Comments

Assessor's Name

Assessor’s Signature Date (dd-mm-yyyy)

Student response to feedback actions for improvement

Three things I will do as a result of this feedback.

1.

2.

3.

27

R e q u e s t f o rE x t e n s i o n F o r m

Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS and pass to your Director of Studies

Department/School:

Full Name: Student Registration Number:

Programme Title: Programme Code:

Programme Stage (if known): Your Year of Study:

Units to be considered

Unit Code Unit Name and specific piece of coursework requiring an extension

Circumstances (please give a brief description including the impacts on your assessments, using additional pages if required):

Please state the type of supporting evidence you are providing (using additional pages if required):

Signature of Student: Date:

Delete as appropriate

Office Use only

Date received by the Department/School: Authorised Signature:

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If you are unwell when completing assessed coursework or sitting examinations, or have any other specific difficulties which may affect your performance in assessed coursework or examinations, you should notify your Programme Leader in writing of the circumstances as soon as possible, and make arrangements for medical certificates or other letters of support to be submitted. A copy of the mitigating circumstances form is available from your Tutor.

Refer to your University of Bath handbook for more detailed information about Individual Mitigating Circumstances.

Mitigating circumstances

Frequently asked questions - Individual Mitigating Circumstances

Q What is an 'Individual Mitigating Circumstance' (IMC)?

A The University defines Individual Mitigating Circumstances (IMCs) as 'conditions which temporarily prevent a student from undertaking assessment or significantly impair the student's performance in assessment: as such, the measure of their severity is not about impact on the student, but impact on the assessment.' Some examples of what is and what isn't an IMC are given in 'What are IMCs?'. If you aren't sure about whether you have an IMC, seek advice from your Programme Leader.

Q I'm ill. What should I do?

A If your illness is likely to affect any of your assessments, follow the IMC procedures and submit either the IMC form or request a coursework extension as appropriate.

Q I've got an ongoing condition or illness which affects my ability to study and/or to undertake certain kinds of assessment. Is this an IMC? What should I do?

A You need to seek advice from the Disability Advice team. Ongoing or longer-term conditions or circumstances are not IMCs, and may be handled by disability support and/or special assessment arrangements: they are likely to give rise to valid IMC claims only if they first come to light or are diagnosed, or become unexpectedly and markedly worse, at assessment time.

Q Who do the IMC procedures apply to?

A All students registered for a University of Bath qualification, including those studying at another institution such as one of the associated colleges, and students taking programmes by distance-learning.

29

Q I've got an operation coming up and I think it will affect my studies/assessments. When do I submit my claim for IMCs?

A Consult your Programme Leader as soon as you have details of the timing and a reasonable idea of the period of time that it is likely to affect. It may be that other arrangements should be made instead of submitting an IMC claim.

Q What should I do if I have missed an examination due to an IMC?

A Complete the IMC Report Form and send it to your Programme Leader not more than 3 days after the examination.

Q What should I do if I feel that I have underperformed in an examination due to an IMC?

A Complete the IMC Report Form and send it to your Director of Studies not more than 3 days after the examination.

Q What should I do if the IMC has affected more than one assessment?

A You may need to complete more than one request. Each IMC Report Form you submit will only be valid for assessments which took place within the three days preceding the submission of the form, and you need to list all the assessments affected within that period on the form.

Q What do I do if I need an extension to a deadline for submitting coursework due to an IMC?

A Look at QA16 Marking, moderation and feedback to students and its associated Request for an Extension Form. Submit the form to your Director of Studies as soon as you aware of the problem.

Q My IMC is embarrassing or personal and I'd like to keep it confidential. What should I do?

A The form allows you to limit who will see the information you provide. You do need to bear in mind, however, that in order for a judgement to be made about the effect of the circumstance on your assessment, the contents of the form will be seen by the Director of Studies and other members of the IMC Panel.

Q I'm worried about the effect on me of having some exams close together. Could I claim this as an IMC?

A The University of Bath is very careful how it timetables examinations in order to avoid students having to take more than three exams within a two-day period. This level of density of exams is judged to be acceptable and is, therefore, not claimable as an IMC. However, if you have a medical condition that means this frequency of exams would cause you significant difficulties, you should seek advice from your Director of Studies or from the Disability Advice team. If you submit an IMC claim you will need to include appropriate medical evidence.

Q Where do I submit the IMC form?

A To your Director of Studies in your academic Department or School.

Q When should I submit the IMC form?

A As early as possible, and not more than three days after the assessment that is affected. If you are too ill to do this, try to get a friend to do it for you. If you are not able to meet the three-day deadline, you will be required to explain the reasons for this.

Q Do I have to submit an IMC form for every assessment that is affected?

A Not necessarily, but remember that each IMC form you submit will only be valid for assessments that took place within the three days preceding the submission, and that you need to list all the assessments affected within that period on the form.

Q What happens to the IMC form and who considers the request?

A Your request will be considered by the IMC Panel in your Department or School, which will decide whether your IMC claim is valid and significant. If it is accepted, the IMC will be taken into account by the Board of Examiners for your programme of study. Either way, you will be notified.

Q When will I be told whether the IMC has been accepted?

A Once it has been considered by the IMC Panel in your Department or School.

Academic reviews A student who is dissatisfied with the mark they have been awarded for an examination or assessment, or with their general level of attainment, may make an appeal and ask the Standing Committee to undertake a review of their results. Academic reviews are carried out only in relation to student results and awards.

Please refer to the University of Bath website for more information about Academic Review.

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I n d i v i d u a l M i t i g a t i n g C i r c u m s t a n c e s ( I M C s ) R e p o r t F o r m

Please complete this form in BLOCK CAPITALS and pass to your Department/School Office for consideration by the Board of Examiners for Programmes

Department/School:

Full Name: Student Registration Number:

Programme Title: Programme Code:

Programme Stage (if known): Your Year of Study:

Units to be considered

Unit Code Unit NameCourse-work †

Exami-nation † Both †

Circumstances (please give a brief description including the impacts on your assessments, using additional pages if required):

Please state the type of supporting evidence you are providing (using additional pages if required):

If you do not wish the nature of your circumstances to be made known to the Board of Examiners for Programmes please tick the box on the right and talk to either your Personal Tutor or your Director of Studies.

Signature of Student: Date:

Delete as appropriate † Tick whichever is applicable

Office Use only

Date received by the Department/School: Authorised Signature:

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You are expected to attend all of your timetabled classes punctually. Full attendance is important in enabling you to meet the objectives of the programme. You are strongly advised not to arrange holidays during term time. If you are absent when an assignment is due, you must contact your tutor to discuss whether an extension is appropriate. Extensions are not given automatically if you are absent.

The terms of your visa (if you need one) may be violated if you fail to attend your classes for any significant period without good reason. We must report any student who is studying on a Tier 4 visa if they fail to attend as expected.

Further information on college terms and dates can be found in the College Handbook; these may be different from the International Foundation Year dates. The calendar of dates in this handbook gives the precise start and finish dates of the International Foundation Year programme.

The normal college day is from 8.30am to 5.00pm. and the normal college week is from Monday to Friday inclusive. Some of your classes may be timetabled to finish after 5.00pm. but there will be no regular classes at weekends.

Your daily timetable will be given to you by your Programme Leader in induction week. Note that timetable arrangements may change from term to term.

You are expected to attend all classes and to arrive on time. Holidays and visits home must be taken during vacation periods and not during term time.

Attendance

Frequently asked questions – attendance Q What should I do if I am ill or an emergency occurs?

A You should telephone or e-mail your personal tutor before 9.30am. to explain why you will not be at college. She/he will then inform other members of the programme team.

Q What do I do if I know I will not be able to attend college on a certain day?

A If you have an appointment that cannot be made outside college hours you should inform your tutor in writing so that she/he can inform the programme team.

Student support Your tutor is your first source of support. Your college will also have special arrangements for support of international students. Check your college handbook for more information.

Staff Student Liaison Committees (SSLCs)It is important to have your say about your course and in accordance with University of Bath regulations we hold Staff Student Liaison Committee meetings at regular intervals throughout the course. This is your opportunity to comment on any negative or positive issues you may have about the course. Your representatives will voice your views. The dates for SSLCs this year are on the key dates page of this handbook.

SSLCs will be attended by the elected representatives, the Programme Director, your programme or course leader, your tutors and invited members of staff. A representative of the University of Bath may also attend these meetings.

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NOTES

34

NOTES

City of Bath CollegeAvon Street Bath BA11UPProgramme leader: Matt [email protected]+44 1225 312191

Chichester CollegeWestgate FieldsWest SussexPO19 1SBProgramme Leader: Ed [email protected]+44 1243 786321

Greenwich Community CollegePlumstead Centre95 Plumstead RoadLondon SE18 7DQProgramme Leader: Christine [email protected]+44 208 488 4800

Wiltshire College SalisburySouthampton RoadSalisburySP1 2LWProgramme Leader: James [email protected]+44 1722 344344

Programme DirectorSarah [email protected]+ 44 1225 328558

international foundation year student handbook handbook 2011-12...using spoken and written english...

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