Biology AS/A Level

Curriculum Area: Science

Biology AS/A Level

Who is the course for?

Biology is one of the most popular A level subjects in the country, attracting students studying a wide range of other subjects. Biology is a very rewarding and challenging course which will develop many skills and it combines particularly well with Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Environmental Studies, Psychology and Geography

Units of study

Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

The Advanced Subsidiary [AS] course is studied by all students in the first year. The course is divided into three separate modules. They are:

Unit 1 Biology and disease

• Disease and pathogens
• Digestive systems and digestion
• Plasma membrane and cell transport
• Respiratory system
• Circulatory system
• Blood

Unit 2 The variety of living organisms

• Variation
• DNA
• Cell division
• Gas exchange and transport systems
• Classification
• Adaptation and selection
• Biodiversity

Unit 3 Investigative and practical skills in AS Biology)

• Practical investigation

Advanced Level (A2)

Unit 4 Populations and environment

• Populations
• Photosynthesis and ATP
• Respiration
• Ecosystems and energy transfer
• Genetic Variation, selection and specification

Unit 5 Control in cells and in organisms

• Stimuli
• Coordination
• Muscles
• Homeostasis and negative feedback
• DNA, genetic code and mutation
• Gene Cloning and expression

Unit 6 Investigative and practical skills in A2 Biology

• Practical investigation

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The courses are tutored by well-qualified members of staff. The courses are active and practical wherever possible. A mix of individual and group work encourages students to show initiative and take responsibility for their own learning. Lectures, practical work, individual assignments and class presentations requiring research are incorporated into the learning programme. Additional Biology workshops will be arranged for students opting to take Biology as their only science

Enrichment

and the Nuffield Crest Programme ; Medsix, Vetsix courses; nursing, medicine and dietetics university taster days. Each year we enter a small team for the Biology Olympiad and students have the opportunity in A2 to become a Peer tutor. Previous trips have included a visit to Bath Spa University, an organic farm and Willsbridge Mill for ecology work and Bristol University for practical workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Units are assessed by written examination. In addition both the AS and A2 courses have an investigative skills assignment (EMPA) which will be externally assessed. Students have the opportunity to retake some modules if they are unhappy with their initial grade.

Resources

Biology has two modern, well equipped laboratories serviced by a team of Science Technicians. Students are able to use the College Library and Information Centre together with extensive, open access, computer suites. The Library is well stocked with books, journals, and has Internet facilities.

Progression

Advanced Level Biology provides a sound basis for students who wish to proceed to Higher Education. A qualification in these subjects may lead to a wide variety of careers choices, such as - Agriculture, Bacteriology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Broadcasting, Childcare, Conservation, Dentistry, Education, Environment Management, Food Science, Forestry, Horticulture, Journalism, Medicine, Museums, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Oceanography, Ophthalmic, Pharmaceuticals, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Publishing, Radiography, Social Work, Sports and Fitness, Veterinary Science.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSE passes at Grade C. Your GCSE results must also include GCSE Core and Additional Science at grade BB or GCSE Biology at grade B or above plus GCSE Mathematics at grade C or above. The GCSE Applied Science is not an acceptable entry qualification for this course. Biology has the biggest specification of any A level and successful students are those who can work independently and have the ability to learn and apply factual information.

Additional Costs

It is possible that external visits may take place. If this is the case a charge will be made.

What Students Say

“It’s a fascinating subject but being good at GCSE isn’t a good enough reason to take it, it is more difficult than you will expect you can’t coast through and do well , but it’s an interesting subject and all the teachers are very good “