A Level Biology

Students will develop an understanding of biological facts and principles and gain an appreciation of their significance by studying molecules, cells and systems, inheritance, evolution and ecosystems as well as physiology and the environment.

Course content

There are two examined units in the AS; • UNIT 1 Cells, Exchange an Transport This unit studies cells and tissues, microscopy, and the heart structure and function. • Unit 2 Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health This unit studies Biochemistry, Ecology, Evolution and Genetics The A2 units are; • UNIT 4 Communications, Homeostasis and Energy This unit studies communication, nerves and hormones, excretion, photosynthesis and respiration. • UNIT 5 Control, Genomes and Environment This unit studies cellular control, biotechnology, ecosystems and the environment. At the AS Level there is a significant amount of Chemistry required for Biology. Therefore an interest in Chemistry is useful for success in these subjects.

• Molecules, cells and systems
• Making use of biology
• Inheritance, evolution and ecosystems
• Physiology and the environment

Year one - AS Level This is the first year of the full A Level course. Students can finish at the end of Year one with an AS Level in Biology or continue on to Year two to take the full A Level qualification. Module 1 Molecules, Cells and Systems Most organisms are organised on a cellular basis. Biochemical reactions occur within cells and these are regulated by the action of enzymes and limited by the passage of substances across plasma membranes. In larger organisms, cells are organised into tissues and tissues into organs which have specific functions. Organisms exchange substances with their environment and transport these substances from one part of the body to another by mass flow systems. This module will allow consideration of the principles to be stressed rather than biochemical detail and will provide an introduction to the acquisition of, and opportunities to assess appropriate laboratory skills. Module 2 Making use of Biology Biology influences our everyday lives in many ways. Enzymes can be isolated from micro-organisms and have important applications in industry and in medicine. A knowledge of the way in which genes code information that leads to the synthesis of specific proteins has many applications such as in the production of specific proteins and in forensic investigation. In agriculture, an understanding of physiological processes has enabled us to increase the productivity of crop plants and domestic animals. This module will allow the continued development of basic skills as well as the opportunity to discuss the ethical and moral issues that relate to the subject. Module 4 Centre Assessed Coursework This unit assesses the practical, module 4. It requires candidates to plan, carry out and evaluate their work and should involve the use of IT where appropriate. It is marked by the teacher and moderated by AQA. Assessment: AS Examination 5131 Unit 1 Module 1: 1

Progression

A range of degree courses, including Medicine, Dentistry, Biological Science, Environmental Science, etc.