A Level Biology

Biology is the study of living things. Learning about biology teaches you the structure and function of not just your own body, but all the living organisms around you. This course examines the fundamental ways that all living things are connected, both in terms of our interdependence and our common evolutionary history. The course covers an extremely wide breadth of knowledge, from the human circulatory system to biochemical molecules to the genetics of life to the essential chemical processes of photosynthesis and respiration.

The course is split into 6 modules:

• Development of practical skills in biology (this includes a minimum of 12 practical activities).
• Foundations in biology (Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides and nucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation).
• Exchange and transport (Exchange surfaces; Transport in animals; Transport in plants)
• Biodiversity, evolution and disease (Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system; Biodiversity; Classification and evolution)
• Communication, homeostasis and energy (Communication and homeostasis; Excretion as an example of homeostatic control; Neuronal communication; Hormonal communication; Plant and animal responses; Photosynthesis; Respiration)
• Genetics, evolution and ecosystems (Cellular control; Patterns of inheritance; Manipulating genomes; Cloning and biotechnology; Ecosystems; Populations and sustainability).

What is the assessment model?

This is a 2 year course.

3 terminal exams (in year 13):

• Biological Processes: 100 marks, 2 hours 15 minutes written paper. Counts for 37% of total A level
• Biological Diversity: 100 marks, 2 hours 15 minutes written paper. Counts for 37% of total A level
• Unified Biology: 70 marks, 1 hour 30 minutes written paper. Counts for 26% of total A level

The first two exams cover specific modules of the course in a lot of depth. The third exam covers the entire course, but in less depth. There are also the practical assessments (Practical Endorsement in biology) which are not exam based and count separately to the A-Level.

At least 5 GCSE Grades 9 - 4 to include English & Maths; and Grade 6 or above in Biology or Combined Science.

A-Level biology can lead to vocational and university courses. A-Level biology can prepare you for a suite of careers, including sports science, nursing, agriculture, engineering, and, of course, biological research.