BiologyContent

A-Level biology is a desirable qualification for courses such as medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, biochemistry, engineering and essential for any ecology, zoology and Biology based degrees at many universities.

A Biology qualification would give you an insight into everyday essential processes that occur; without these life would not exist. It could lead to an exciting, rewarding career studying areas within biological science that are as varied as they are numerous. This particular area of science will change your perception of the wonder of life and give you a whole new perspective on all things biological, from claims of companies that can reverse the signs of aging in humans to the use of dolphins in the military.

Course Structure

Module 1, Development of practical skills to underpin the whole specification and help students develop skills that are essential in biological sciences, this module is to be integrated throughout years 1 and 2.

Year 1:

Module 2, Foundations in Biology. Includes a comprehensive overview of cell structure and the cell membrane, biological molecules, nucleotides and nucleic acids, enzymes and cell division.

Module 3, Exchange and Transport. Includes the importance of exchange surfaces and the transport mechanisms of essential substances and assimilates in both plants and animals.

Module 4, Biodiversity, evolution and disease. Includes a fascinating insight into communicable diseases, prevention of these diseases and how human immune systems respond. As well as biodiversity and classifications and evolution.

Year 2:

Module 5, Communication and Homeostasis. Includes the process of homeostasis, neuronal and hormonal communication, photosynthesis and respiration.

Module 6 Genetics, evolution and ecosystems. Includes cellular control, patterns of inheritance, manipulating genomes, cloning and biotechnology, ecosystems and populations and sustainability.

Method of AssessmentAll exams will be held in June of year 2

Paper 1, assessed modules 1, 2, 3, and 5. Paper 2, assessed modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Paper 3, assessed modules 1-6

Module 1 Assessed in lessons, leading to a separately reported Practical Endorsement

Prior knowledge/attainmentAs well as the normal matriculation requirements to study at A level you must:

Have at least two level 6 or equivalent in GCSE Science. have at least a level 6 in Mathematics To proceed to Year 13 of Biology, a minimum of a grade D in the summer mock is required.