Biology
A Level Biology covers a large range of topics which enforce the development of transferable skills in students. Some of these areas are as follows: epidemiology, cellular biology, physiology, genetics, life processes, biochemistry, ecology, evolutionary mechanisms and human biology.
A-level Biology is considered a core subject by Russell group universities. We currently support over 60 students studying Biology at A Level. It is a fascinating subject due to the diverse range of subject areas which are covered by the course, as well as its clear applications in everyday contexts. Biology nurtures in depth academic and personal skills whilst providing students which key attributes relevant to a wide range of university courses and careers, e.g. data analysis, communication skills, problem solving and team work.
Students wishing to study sciences at university are advised to take at least one other science subject, e.g. chemistry or physics, to give good grounding for science based courses and therefore increased success of UCAS applications. This is particularly true for medical or veterinary sciences. For environmental subjects geography and biology make a good combination. Biology and PE are often recommended for Sports Science and Physiotherapy.
Exam Board & Specification | AQA | Please click here |
Minimum GCSE Grade Requirements | Grade 6/6 in Double Science or 6 in Biology and Grade 5 in English and Maths |
Future opportunities
The course is a suitable preparation for biological studies in higher and other educational establishments and for professional courses. The course performs a useful educational function as well as providing opportunities for an appreciation of the social, moral and ethical complexities of many current biological issues.
Students that have taken Biology have gone on to study medicine, veterinary science, physiotherapy, biomedical science, forensic science as well as other courses such as law, sport science and fine art/illustration.
Course Content & Assessment
COURSE CONTENT
- Biological molecules
- Cells
- Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- The control of gene expression
ASSESSMENT
Written examination at the end of Year 13
Paper 1
What is assessed?
- Any content from topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 91 marks
- 35% of A Level
Questions
- 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
- 15 marks: extended response questions
Paper 2
What is assessed?
- Any content from topics 5–8, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 91 marks
- 35% of A-level
Questions
- 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
- 15 marks: comprehension question
Paper 3
What is assessed?
- Any content from topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 78 marks
- 30% of A-level
Questions
- 38 marks: structured questions, including practical techniques
- 15 marks: critical analysis of given experimental data
- 25 marks: one essay from a choice of two titles
Science Department
Subject Leader | Mrs J Pennington-Wright |
Key Stage 3 Co-ordinator | Mrs K Ross |
Key Stage 4 Co-ordinator | Miss A Waddicor |
Key Stage 5 Co-ordinator | Dr K Irlam |
Mrs K Brett | |
Ms L Casson | |
Mrs N Everitt | |
Miss A McLeod | |
Mrs R Monks | |
Mrs A Newton | |
Mrs B Povey (parental leave) | |
Mrs M Salaga | |
Mrs L Sanday | |
Mrs J Steer | |
Mrs S Tunstall | |
Miss A Waddicor | |
Mr S Wright |