This course was designed to provide an opportunity for students to study the nature and development of family life, and to be made aware of their own interaction with others.  The syllabus focuses on the development of children aged 0-5 years and the effects of the family, community and society in the rearing of children and family lifestyles.

The syllabus is structured for assessment through coursework and terminal examination.

The coursework consists of:

A. Two Resource Tasks (20%).
Six Tasks to be carried out in six different areas of study.  They will develop the student’s knowledge and understanding of the subject through planning, researching and evaluating their tasks.  The two resource tasks will be put forward which carry the highest marks.
      
B. One Individual Task (30%)
This is the major piece of coursework.  The task must involve problem solving and investigation, and must include the observation of a child or children.  The observations can apply to any area of the subject content, which is relevant.  It may well arise from a personal area of interest by the candidate. 

Students will need to have easy access to a child between 0-5 years for observations in the Individual Task.

Terminal Written Examination – 1½hrs Foundation, 2 hrs Higher.  50% of total marks.
This paper will comprise structured questions, and those of a more open-ended nature.  Students will sit this paper either at Foundation or Higher level.

Studying will include visiting speakers and nursery placements giving the opportunity to collect information for the individual task.