AS & A2 Level Biology

AS & A2 Level Biology

About the Course
Subject
A Levels
Study Mode
Full-time

Introduction 2 years full-time
A Level Biology is an appropriate subject to study if you are intending on careers such as Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Environmental Health, Food Science, Microbiology, Medicine and Medical Sciences, Nursing, Nutrition, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Veterinary Science.
The AS specification provides a smooth transition to A Level, building on concepts and skills of the new GCSEs. It has been described as exciting and challenging; and relevant to further studies at university. The specification also emphasises the way in which scientists work and the contributions of science to modern society.

Course Units AS units Summary of subject content Assessment 1 Biology and disease The digestive and gas exchange systems as examples of systems in which humans and other mammals exchange substances with their environment. Both are affected by diseases. However, the body's defence mechanisms can limit the effects of disease 5 - 7 short answer questions plus 2 longer questions, a short comprehension and a short structured essay 1¼ hours 33.33% of the total AS marks 2 The variety of living organisms · DNA as the information-carrying molecule. The similarities and differences in the sequence of bases in DNA result in genetic diversity. · The variety of life is extensive and is reflected in similarities and differences in its biochemical basis and cellular organisation. · Variation between species contributes to biodiversity of communities and ecosystems 7 - 9 short answer questions plus 2 longer questions (1 data handling and 1 assessing analysis and evaluation) 1¾ hours 46.67% of the total AS marks 3 Centre assessed investigative and practical skills The following skills will be developed · Demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques · Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements · Analyse and interpret results, together with explain and evaluate the methodology of the investigation PSA (Practical Skills Assessment) - 6 marks ISA (Investigative Skills Assignment) - 44 marks 20% of the total AS marks A2 units Summary of subject content Assessment 4 Populations and environment Living organisms form structured communities within dynamic but essentially stable ecosystems through which energy is transferred and chemical elements are cycled. Humans are part of the ecological balance and their activities affect it both directly and indirectly. Consideration of these effects underpins the content of this unit and should lead to an understanding that sustainability of resources depends on effective management of the conflict between human needs and conservation. 6 - 9 short answer questions plus 2 longer questions (a short comprehension and a short structured essay) 1½ hours 16.67% of the total A-level marks 5 Control in cells and in organisms · Cells control their metabolic activities by regulating the transcription and translation of their genome. The medical and technological applications of sequencing and manipulation of DNA will be considered. · How multicellular organisms control the activities of different tissues and organs within their bodies. · Common ailments resulting from a breakdown of these control mechanisms and the use of DNA technology in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases 8 - 10 short answer questions plus 2 longer questions (a data-handling question and a synoptic essay - choice of 1 out of 2) 2 ¼ hours 23.33% of the total A-level marks 6 Centre assessed investigative and practical skills The following skills will be developed · Demonstrate and describe ethical, safe and skilful practical techniques · Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements · Analyse and interpret results, together with explain and evaluate the methodology of the investigation PSA (Practical Skills Assessment) - 6 marks ISA (Investigative Skills Assignment) - 44 marks 10% of the total A-level marks

Further Opportunities A Level Biology is an appropriate subject to study if you are intending on careers such as Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Environmental Health, Food Science, Microbiology, Medicine and Medical Sciences, Nursing, Nutrition, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Veterinary Science.