Biology
Biology is a rapidly developing science, and our A Level course has been designed to reflect this. It provides a foundation for further studies in Biology and related areas.
The Biology A Level course is designed to develop essential knowledge and understanding of different subject areas and how they relate to each other. It will help develop confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills, whilst promoting the understanding of scientific methods. By the end of the course, students will have a better understanding of how we make decisions about scientific issues and how the study of Biology can contribute to the success of both the economy and society.
Ideally, students should be competent scientists with both mathematical ability and good written English. They will need to have achieved a 7 in GCSE Biology or 7-7 in Double Award Science and preferably the equivalent grades in both Mathematics and English Language.
To find out more about Biology at GCSE Level, please see GCSE Science.
Curriculum
A Level - Biology
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COURSE CONTENT |
ASSESSMENT |
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Content is split into six teaching modules:
Module 1: development of practical skills in Biology Module 2: foundations in Biology Module 3: exchange and transport Module 4: biodiversity, evolution and disease Module 5: communication, homeostasis and energy Module 6: genetics, evolution and ecosystems
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Biological processes (37%) 2 hours 15 minutes written paper
Biological diversity (37%) 2 hours 15 minutes written paper
Unified Biology (26%) 1 hour 30 minutes written paper
Practical endorsement in Biology (non-exam assessment) |
Beyond the course: by studying Biology, a wide range of degree courses is open to students, such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Pharmacy. Biology also has close links with Sports Science, Geography, and environmental and Chemistry-based university degree courses. This course is also suitable for those learners wishing to follow an apprenticeship route or those seeking direct entry into Biological Science careers.
Enrichment
In the Science Department, learning does not stop when students leave the classroom, and we provide a multitude of extra activities for interested students to get involved with. We believe that it is vital that student enthusiasm be fuelled, and that some of the best learning happens outside of the classroom when students are passionate about the subjects they are studying.
In addition to subject-specific activities and events, the department facilitates an ever-evolving programme of activities designed to inspire and enthuse. Recent examples of these include:
- Minecraft STEM Club: developing understanding of science-based ideas and concepts through modelling and building
- 6th Form Science Journal Club: provides opportunities for scientists at all levels to develop critical reading skills by evaluating scientific literature and thereby improving their scientific literacy, introducing them to new concepts and techniques, and, most importantly, improving confidence and communication skills.
- Local trips: Science Museum, Royal Institution, GCSE Science Live
- International trips to Iceland [Biology & Geography collaboration]
- Eggucation: rare breed chicken conservation – hosting a brood of eggs and live-streaming the chicks hatching
- Guest Speakers, such as Dr Jess Wade from Imperial College London, a post-doctoral researcher working with on chiral organic light-emitting diodes who works tirelessly to engage with the public, champion women in STEM and tackle the gender bias on Wikipedia.
- All 6th Form scientists and psychologists attended the UNESCO virtual conference celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
