Agricultural Science involves the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of agriculture. This is an excellent option for students already studying Biology and/or Geography as there is overlap in course content. It is also recognised as a laboratory science subject for almost all 3rd level courses including nursing. At the Institute, students are provided with everything they need to maximise their marks in the practical and written aspects of this course, from detailed and comprehensive study notes to dedicated farm trips and laboratory practicals in our modern, well equipped labs.
Why study biology for the Leaving Certificate?
Many third-level courses in Ireland require at least one science subject and some even require two. It is therefore a good idea to have at least one science subject at Leaving Certificate level to keep your CAO options open.
What sort of students does biology suit?
Biology requires a lot of memory work so is a good choice for students with a good work ethic, who have a strong attention to detail. Those who enjoyed higher level science at Junior Cycle level might wish to consider taking biology for the Leaving Certificate.
What is the approach to teaching Biology at the Institute?
Students at the Institute cover the practical and theory elements of the course, and are encouraged to participate actively in class by asking questions and taking notes. Regular testing and homework is a constant feature of the classes, and students are provided with precise, exam-focused notes for every topic covered. Students are continuously made aware of the marking scheme and how this applies to questions they are answering. Certain topics, which continuously appear year after year, are highlighted by teachers as a core component of revision.
Computer science is the study of computing and algorithmic processes. The Leaving Certificate syllabus will explore how programming and computational thinking can be applied to the solution of problems and how computing technology impacts the world around us.
Teachers:
What is Home Economics?
Through studying Home Economics (Scientific and Social),students can develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required to live and adapt to the rapidly changing world around them.
Why study Home Economics for Leaving Cert?
Home Economics provides a basis for all students for post school life but particularly for students who have a keen interest in Science based subjects (Medicine, Bio Chemistry, Nursing, Dietetics).It overlaps with a number of Senior Cycles subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Agricultural Science and Business.
What sort of student would Home Economics suit?
Home Economics suits students who like learning facts and who are able to retain a lot of detailed information, those who have a keen interest in the changing shape of our daily lives and our response to these changes.
Approach to teaching Home Economics at the Institute.
Home Economics is taught in a very organised manner. Students learn how to structure their own personal study plan, to use time efficiently when studying. Students will learn how to develop higher order thinking skills which not only apply to answering questions in the Leaving Cert but to future College exams and beyond.
Why study physics for the Leaving Certificate?
Students interested in engineering, computer science and medical courses often choose physics as a subject for the Leaving Certificate. Generally it is wise to study at least one science subject at Leaving Certificate level.
What sort of student does physics suit?
The ability to understand concepts is the key to physics at Leaving Certificate level. As a subject, it requires a small amount of memory work. A student who enjoys, and is above average at maths would be well able for physics at Leaving Certificate level
What is the approach to teaching physics at the Institute?
Explaining concepts in simple and precise language is the cornerstone of the Institute’s success in the teaching of physics. Students are encouraged to ask questions in class and to listen to and be respectful of the questions of others. Every part of the syllabus is covered with a high level of concentration on the solutions to previous exam questions.
Why study Physical Education for the Leaving Certificate?.
The specification is presented in two strands. In strand 1, students learn about different theoretical perspectives that impact on optimum performance and how to apply this understanding to a range of different activities. In strand 2, students learn about contemporary issues in physical activity and how different people experience physical activity and sport. Students’ physically active participation is central to teaching and learning in LCPE. To enable this to happen, students learn about the different theoretical perspectives through their participation in three different physical activities.
What sort of student does Physical Education suit?
As LCPE is a mix of sport and science it suits a student who is interested in sport, but also has an interest in biology and physics. It is a demanding subject that requires applying the theory learned in class into practical sport specific situations.
What is the approach to teaching Physical Education at the Institute?
Students at the Institute cover the practical and theory elements of the course, and are encouraged to participate actively in class by asking questions and taking notes. Regular testing and homework is a constant feature of the classes, and students are provided with precise, exam-focused notes for every topic covered. Students are continuously made aware of the marking scheme and how this applies to questions they are answering. Certain topics, which continuously appear year after year, are highlighted by teachers as a core component of revision.
As the final assessment of LCPE requires the completion of two projects, class time will be spent preparing the project work, reviewing, and finalising the projects in detail before submission.
