Unit 7 Contemporary Issues in Science - Question 2
Nov 17, 2025
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BTEC Applied Science – Unit 7: Contemporary Issues in Science
Understanding the Question
Question 2 on the Unit 7 paper typically asks:
“Identify the different organisations/individuals mentioned in the articles and suggest how they may have an influence on the scientific issue.” (6 marks)
This question assesses Learning Aim A2, which focuses on understanding how various groups and individuals impact scientific progress, research, and public opinion.
What You Need to Do:
Identify the organisations or individuals mentioned in the article.
Explain how they influence the issue — through funding, research, policy, public communication, or ethical debate.
There are several types of organisations, for example:
Type | Description | Example |
Government | A formally established organisation that is publicly funded to deliver a public or government service, though not as a ministerial department. | The UK’s central government (e.g. Department of Health, Transport, and the Cabinet Office). |
Non-government | NGO stands for non-governmental organisation. It is a voluntary, non-profit group with a social or humanitarian mission, operating independently from the government. | The American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, WHO, and Amnesty International. |
University and research | An institution of higher education and research that awards academic degrees and carries out scientific or academic investigation. | Universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, or Imperial College London that carry out research. |
Private trade | A private company is formed by a small number of shareholders who come together for a social cause or profit motive. Shares are not traded on a public stock exchange. | Examples include family-owned businesses, partnerships, or limited liability companies like Dyson or Innocent Drinks. |
Voluntary pressure group | A special interest group that seeks to influence government policy in a particular direction. These groups operate independently and are not officially recognised by the government. | Amnesty International, Fathers4Justice, Greenpeace, and PETA. |
Example Issue: Nanotechnology in Medicine and Industry
The article Nanotechnology and Its Applications discusses how nanotechnology is applied in drug delivery, disease detection, and energy efficiency.
It mentions and links to organisations such as:
The European Commission (EC)
NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA)
Universities and research institutions
Private companies developing nanotech products
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and public health committees
Step-by-Step: Structuring Your Answer
Step 1: Identify the Organisations or Individuals (2 marks)
Begin by listing those mentioned in the article. For example:
The European Commission provides regulation and ethical guidance.
NASA uses nanotechnology in spacecraft and materials research.
Universities and scientists perform applied research and publish results.
Private companies develop and commercialise nanotechnology.
NGOs raise concerns about health and environmental safety.
Step 2: Describe Their Influence (4 marks)
Explain how each group shapes the issue. Consider what they do and why it matters. Use these categories:
Type | Influence | Example |
Government | Makes laws, funds research, ensures safety and ethics | The European Commission develops regulations for nanomaterials |
Research organisations | Discover new applications and publish findings | Universities investigate medical uses like targeted drug delivery |
Private trade/industry | Develops and sells new nanotech products | Tech companies create energy-efficient coatings or sensors |
Voluntary/pressure groups | Raise ethical or environmental concerns | NGOs campaign for safe disposal of nanoparticles |
Individuals/scientists | Conduct experiments and communicate results | Researchers share new discoveries with policy makers |
Model Answer (6 Marks)
The article mentions several organisations involved in nanotechnology. The European Commission influences the field by funding research and developing safety guidelines for the use of nanoparticles in products. NASA and the European Space Agency use nanotechnology to create lighter, stronger spacecraft materials, influencing how nanoscience is applied to engineering. Universities and scientists drive innovation by discovering new medical and industrial uses, such as drug delivery systems. In contrast, NGOs and environmental groups raise awareness of potential risks, influencing public opinion and pushing for stricter regulation. Together, these groups shape how nanotechnology develops and how safely it is used.
✅ This answer gains marks by naming organisations, describing their influence, and linking them directly to the scientific issue.
Top Tips for Full Marks
Always name the organisation or person — don’t just say “scientists” or “companies.”
Show how they influence the issue — through funding, law, research, or opinion.
Link every example back to the specific topic in the article.
Write in full sentences — not bullet points — to demonstrate explanation and understanding.
Aim for at least three examples of influence.
Quick Recap
Identify key organisations or individuals.
Explain their influence clearly.
Connect it to the science described in the article.
Use examples from sectors: government, research, industry, and public interest.
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Gupta, V., Mohapatra, S., et al. (2022) Nanotechnology in Cosmetics and Cosmeceuticals — A Review of Latest Advancements*. Gels. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8951203/ (Accessed: 2 November 2025). PMC
