Biology is the science of life. Within the two-year course pupils will study several key biological concepts allowing them to make sense of the world around them. Following modern research methods pupils will develop a deep understanding of the scientific method.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in GCSE Biology and one other GCSE science or Grade 6-6 in Science (Combined) and Grade 6 at GCSE Mathematics. You must have maturity, self-discipline, good study skills and the motivation to succeed.
Pupils will sit three 2-hour exams at the end of year 13. Paper 1 will examine topics studied during year 12; Paper 2 covers Year 13 content. Paper 3 includes all content across the 2 years culminating in a 25-mark synoptic essay. This A-Level is 100% exam based with no coursework.
Course Content:
- Topic 1: Biological molecules
- Topic 2: Cells Topic 3: Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Topic 4: Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- Practical work will be integrated throughout topics 1-4 but this is not assessed
- Three examinations (2 hours each) ranging across topics
- 1 – 8. No coursework. Content is as topics 1-4 plus:
- Topic 5: Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Topic 6: Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
- Topic 7: Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- Topic 8: The control of gene expression Assessed practical work will be integrated throughout topics