A-Level Human Biology

AS level (year 1)

This will cover the following topics in both theory and practical sessions:

Unit 1: The body and its diseases. Biological molecules, diet, enzymes, cystic fibrosis, microorganisms, immunity, cardiovascular system.

Unit 2: Humans - their origins and adaptations. DNA, cell division, cancer, classification, evolution, adaptation, parasites, human influence on the environment.

Unit 3: Investigative and practical skills. Practical skills are assessed through out the year by the teacher. Investigative skills are assessed through an assignment conducted under controlled conditions and marked by the teacher.

A2 level (year 2)

To progress to A2 the student must have successfully completed the AS course. The further units that make up the A2 are as follows:

Unit 4: Bodies and cells in and out of control. Reproduction, IVF, growth, ageing, inheritance and variation, genetic code, gene technology, nervous system, muscle, hormones, hypothermia and diabetes.

Unit 5: The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat. Population and variation, ecosystems, allergies, air and water pollution, climate change, respiration, human ecosystem and skin ecology, antibacterial resistance.

Unit 6: Investigative and practical skills. Teacher assessed skills including statistical analysis.

Various teaching methods are used throughout the course. Practical laboratory sessions are particularly important and the development of investigative skills is fostered. The written examination includes questions on experimental work and handling of data from experiments.

A-Level Structure:

The course is taught in theory and practical sessions.
Students will normally complete the AS course (Units 1, 2 and 3) during the first year of an A Level course and complete the A2 Units 4, 5 and 6 during the second year. Students could also choose this subject as an additional AS subject in the second year of a two year A Level course.

End Qualification:

You will gain a AS Level Qualification after completion of the first year, completion of year two will see you gaining the Full A2 Level.

Entry Requirements:

Interview required

5 GCSEs including GCSE Triple Science Grade BB/GCSE Science Double Certificate Grade BB or GCSE Human Biology grade B, GCSE English language Grade C and GCSE Mathematics grade B plus 2 others grade C or above.

Assessment:

At AS level there are the following examinations:
Unit 1 - Written test 1.5 hours
Unit 2 - Written test 1.5 hours
Unit 3 - Practical skills assessed throughout the year and one investigative skills assessment test. This is the collection and analysis of data under controlled conditions followed by a written test.

At A2 level there are the following examinations:
Unit 4 - Written test 2 hours
Unit 5 - Written test 2 hours with some synoptic elements
Unit 6 - Practical skills assessed throughout the year and one investigative skills assessment test. This is the collection and analysis of data under controlled conditions followed by a written test.

Progression from this course:

This subject is an excellent qualification for entry into a biological degree course, medical and paramedical career, nursing, sports related career and uniformed services. Those students intending an experimental science career based on biology, medicine or dentistry should also choose A level chemistry.

Location:

King's Lynn Campus - PE30 2QW

Duration:

2 Years

Start times:

September 2013

How to Apply:

Please apply online using the general college application form

Course Costs:

All students on full-time courses will need to pay a materials/resources fee. Details will be provided before enrolment. If you are under 19 on 31st August in the year you begin your programme, you will not have to pay tuition or registration fees for your course. For students aged 19 or over, there will be a tuition fee (depends on the course) for each year of the course as well as a registration fee (which includes exam fees). However, many students will be eligible for reduced fees and / or financial support towards the costs. Click here for detailed information. Please contact Student Services if you have further queries.

Additional Information:

Contact Student Services: King's Lynn - 01553 761144 Isle (Wisbech) - 01945 582561 A level courses in Wisbech are run and delivered in partnership with Thomas Clarkson Community College.