GCSE Biology

Biology GCSE



QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
A grade D/E in GCSE Biology or Science. You may be considered with other qualifications. If you already have dual Sciences at CC grades this course is not advisable.

LENGTH OF COURSE
One year.

WHERE NEXT?
Many students if successful go on to take AS and then A2 Biology before going on to university. Others go on to courses where knowledge of Biology is useful.

COURSE AIMS
You will develop essential knowledge and understanding of the concepts of Biology and to prepare you for the AS Biology course the following year.

CONTENT
The course builds on work that you have done in your GCSE Science course or courses (B1/B2).The AQA syllabus covers:
Human Biology/Evolution and Environment (B1 Core Biology)
Cell Biology/Photosynthesis and Energy Flow and Decay/Enzymes and their uses. Homeostasis and Human Genetics (B2 Additional Biology)

Transport in plants and animals
Effects on exercise on the body/the kidney and disease/growth and uses of micro-organisms (B3 Further Biology) How Science Works â€" the thinking behind the doing, the development of practical, analytical and evaluative skills.

ASSESSMENT
75% is external assessment on 3 written papers of 45 minutes duration taken for each unit B1/B2/B3 normally taken in Jan/June of the academic year

25% is a centre-assessed unit based on normal practical skills assessment (PSA)

Successful units may be aggregated with other science units to aggregate science qualifications.
HOW WILL I STUDY?
Lessons will vary in style depending on the unit being studied and will involve class discussion, making notes and practical work.
Homework will be set on a regular basis and this will be used in addition to tests, to monitor your progress. The development of practical skills will occur in the laboratories and students will need to use ICT to help their research and evaluative skills.

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