Biology

Biology – A-Level Qualification

Examining Body:

AQA

Entry Criteria:

Ideally Grade 6 / 6 GCSE Combined Science or Grade 6 GCSE Biology plus, Grade 5 GCSE Mathematics. Students not meeting these criteria may be accepted after interview

Course Leader:

Mrs A Riley

Why? :

This course is academically rigorous and provides an excellent pathway to undergraduate degrees in medicine, midwifery, radiography, Life Science, Environmental Science, Forensic Science or similar courses. Biology is the study of life, whether it be human, animal or plant. our approach to Biology is very practical and we use an experimental approach to enrich learning as well as to prepare students for university or scientific sector employment. As a department we have a wealth of experience both academically and practically and we believe that this enriches the teaching of the course. Students considering this course should be self-motivated, well organised and extremely hard working.

Course Structure:

Students will study eight topics over the two year course. these are: biological molecules, cells, organisms that exchange substances with their environment, genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms, energy transfers in and between organisms, organisms that respond to changes in their internal and external environments, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression. In addition, students complete twelve required practicals over the two years. These are integrated into the relevant teaching modules and students may be assessed on their knowledge, understanding and application of these practicals in all three written exams.

Assessment:

Paper 1: Any content from topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (91 marks) 35% of A-level
Paper 2: Any content from topics 5–8, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (91 marks) 35% of A-level
Paper 3: Any content from topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills. Written exam: 2 hours (78 marks) 30% of A-level


Extended Learning:

Students will be provided with a booklet at the start of each topic which lays out the learning outcomes of each lesson and includes a selection of past paper exam questions on this topic. The learning outcomes are based on segments of the specification and are written as questions for students to answer. Students should make notes on these outcomes and complete the examination questions. These will then be marked during the final lesson of the topic to develop exam technique as well as consolidate knowledge.

Curriculum Road Map - Biology