Biology A Level

Biology AS/A

Biology

NB From September 2010 we will also offer BTEC National Award in Applied Human Biology. Further details will appear here in mid November 2009. Please see BTEC National Certificate in Applied Science (Medical Science) for entry requirements.

What is this course about?
Biology AS and A2 develop essential knowledge and understanding of the concepts of biology, and also the skills needed in new and changing situations. You will be made aware of the advances in genetics and biotechnology, be able to discuss the value and responsible use of biology in society and you will have the opportunity to sustain and develop your enjoyment of science. You will develop an in depth understanding of current issues and the aim is to help non specialists to become better informed citizens.

What topics will I study?

AS:

• Biology and disease, digestion, enzymes, cell biology, lung function, heart structure and heart disease, immunology.
• Variety of living organisms , variation, DNA, genetics, diversity, cell division, gas exchange, classification, diversity.

A2 :

• Populations and environment , ecosystems, photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient cycles, inheritance, selection, speciation.
• Control in cells and organisms , receptors and nerves, muscles, homeostasis, reproductive hormones, protein synthesis, mutations, gene cloning, gene therapy, genetic fingerprinting.

How will my work be assessed?
There are two modular exams at both AS and A2 worth 80% of the marks.

The remaining 20% is based on investigative and practical skills.

Frequently asked questions

What knowledge do I need to succeed?
You need to be fully confident with all biology topics you covered at GCSE.

What skills will I need to develop to succeed?
A good memory for facts, an organised approach to problem solving, careful and accurate practical skills, a willingness to work hard. You should be keen to discover more about topical issues in biology and their ethical implications.

What are the lessons like?
You will experience a range of learning activities that include whole group and small group work, note taking, discussions, presentations, practical work, independent research and use of ICT sources. There will be a field trip to help with some of the ecological and environmental work and other visits and some outside speakers.

What have I got to do to do well?
Make sure you understand all that is covered in lessons and consolidate this by completing homework tasks and preparing thoroughly for tests and exams.

What students say about this course
"Nice teachers, interesting experiments and challenging!"

"Biology is really consistently interesting" all the sorts of questions I had from GCSE about â€-how this works' in more detail get answered. It isn't that hard but you have to keep up with a lot of work, so be careful".

"I find Biology very interesting. It is full of useful things to know, however the course is challenging".

What do people do with A level Biology?
Biology provide you with the essential skills to continue to a variety of Higher Education courses or types of employment. Many students progress to medical courses such as Medicine, Physiotherapy, Veterinary Science and Nursing; others pursue scientific careers, for example in the pharmaceutical industry. Frequently students may go on to completely different careers such as law or business.

Will there be any significant costs related to this subject apart from normal stationery?
Biology AS - Biology Review magazine (optional) £15 per year,

Trip to London â€" museums/lectures (optional) £25 each.

A2 Biology - Field Trip £10, Zoo Trip £20 and Residential Field Trip (optional) £250.