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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

  1. Biological molecules
  2. Cells
  3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment
  4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
  5. Energy transfers in and between organisms
  6. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
  7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
  8. 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
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