“You will be exposed to a wide range of practical work that will enable you to develop the techniques essential in a scientific career”
Biology is an exciting, practical based subject that uncovers the mysteries in living organisms; it will teach you how the human body works and how organisms adapt and change over time. During the course you will be exposed to a wide range of practical work that will enable you to develop the techniques essential in a scientific career.
Furthermore, you will develop problem solving and communication skills through class and independent study. Throughout the course you will be expected to analyse factual information and communicate your ideas in writing.
The Biology A-Level has 8 distinct topics:
- Biological molecules.
- How organisms exchange substances with the environment.
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between other organisms.
- Energy transfers in and between organisms.
- How organisms respond to changes in internal and external environments.
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems.
- The control of gene expression.
How will I be assessed?
At the end of Year 12 you will be assessed in the first 4 topics of the course through two written examinations, each lasting 90 minutes and carrying 50% of the AS grade.
At the end of Year 13, you will be assessed in all 8 topics through three written examinations, each lasting two hours. Two of the examination papers will assess your knowledge and understanding and will each form 35% of your final grade. The third examination paper will consist of questions on practical technique and data analysis and will also include an essay question; it will form the remaining 30% of your A-Level grade.
Additional Entry Requirements
GCSE Biology: B or grade 6 or GCSE Combined Science: 6
GCSE Maths: 6
GCSE English: 5
All A - Level courses are two year courses. You will sit the AS exams at the end of Year 12 and the A-Level exams at the end of Year 13. Although the AS grade will not count towards your final A-Level grade, you will need at least a grade D at AS to succeed on this course in Year 13.
Where can this course take me?
This course can equip you to go to university where you can study any aspect of Biology further and ultimately work within many roles including: Doctor, Vet, Nurse, Midwife, Physiotherapist, Horticulture, Science Teacher / Biology lecturer, Forensics and Zoology.