Biology
Why study Biology?
Biology really is an amazing subject. How many times do you hear references to a biological topic on the news? Which other subject gives you the chance to find out more about what keeps us alive and the importance of other animals and the environment around us?
Biology can be studied along with any other combination of AS and A levels. It can lead to a variety of career options, such as Sports Science, Medicine, Environmental Science, Physiotherapy and Biomedical Sciences. Even if you decide not to continue with Biology at a higher level, the skills you will learn can be applied to almost any degree or career choice.
What GCSEs do I need?
We require at least BB in Science (Core plus Additional), or C in GCSE Biology though preferably a grade B. We also prefer C in Maths and English. Biology is not an easy subject and it is important to be prepared to work at it from the start!
What course will I follow?
We are currently following the AQA Biology specification. Like other A levels, you will follow AS level in year 1 and A2 level from the end of June in your first year and through to year 2.
AS level Biology
AS level Biology will be a one year course, consisting of three units. You may take your first module exam in January, and a second in June. One unit contains a practical element.
AS level consists of 2 theory units which will include:
An introduction to core biological principles such as:
- Cells and cell transport
- Biological molecules
- Exchange of materials
- Enzymes and digestion
- Transport in Plants and Animals
- Nucleic Acids
- Food, Health and disease
- Biodiversity and Evolution
Unit 3 will assess practical and investigative skills.
A2 level Biology
A2 Biology will be studied in the second year, building on the themes contained in the AS course. This year also consists of three units including a practical element. Again you may take one exam in January with the final units being assessed in June.
In addition to questions on specific modules, students doing A2 Biology will be expected to answer synoptic content questions. These bring together different areas of the subject, including topics studied at AS level.
A2 level consists of 2 theory units which will include:
- Communication and Homeostasis
- Photosynthesis
- Respiration
- Cellular Control
- Meiosis and Variation
- Ecosystems
- Populations and Sustainability
- Plant and Animal Responses to the Environment
- Animal Behaviour
- Cloning in Plants and Animals
- Biotechnology
- Genomes and Gene Technologies
Unit 6 will investigate practical and investigative skills.
What sort of lessons can I expect?
There will be a range of activities, such as group research and presentations, laboratory and field practicals. There will even be the opportunity to be creative, designing posters and models.