A Level Biology

Biology is at the centre of what we are and the world we live in. The developments in Biological Sciences are rapid and fascinating with a new discovery every day.

The course is an A-level which will be examined at the end of the second year.

Students are expected to buy their own textbook and there is a contribution required for paper resources and excursions, as the course progresses.

Year 12:

Module 1 : Development of Practical Skills
This involves a wide range of practical tasks

Module 2 : Foundations in Biology
Looking at cell structure, biological molecules, cell division and cellular organisation

Module 3 : Exchange and Transport
Looking at exchange surfaces and transport in animals and plants

Module 4 : Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease
This includes aspects of how we fit into our environment and how our environment can affect us

Year 13:

Module 5 : Communications, Homeostasis and Energy

Module 6 : Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems

Papers 1 and 2 are both 2 hours 15 minutes long with 100 marks each and cover all of the specification between them

Paper 3 is 1 hour 30 minutes long and includes aspects of the whole specification, with an emphasis on practical and data handling skills

The minimum requirement is 7 GCSE or equivalent passes at grades 9-4 in an appropriate range of subjects, including English Language at grade 4 or above.

• GCSE Maths Grade 6
• Combined Science Grade 6-6 or Biology Grade 6
• Grade 4 (or above) for other GCSE subjects
• 1 BTEC (or equivalent) at Merit or above may be included within the 7 grades

You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses that may overlap with Biology such as:

• Geography
• Chemistry
• Maths
• Physics
• Physical Education

Success in Biology A-level will allow you to apply for the Science and Biology related subjects, or more general higher education courses.