AS and A Level Biology

AS and A Level Biology
Biology is an exciting and rapidly developing science which has a major inpact on everyday life. On this course, as well as studying the human body, you will learn about plants, biochemistry, genetics and the environment. Success requires commitment, enthusiasm and high levels of literacy and numeracy.

What does the course consist of?
In Year 1 you will study units 1, 2 and 4 for an AS Level. In Year 2 you will take units 4, 5 and 6 to complete the full Advanced Level.
Unit 1: Biology and Disease

This unit looks at the digestive and gas exchange systems in humans in relation to disease. An appreciation of the physiology of these systems requires candidates to understand basic principles including the role of enzymes as biological catalysts, and passive and active transport of substances across membranes. Diseases caused by micro-organisms, such as cholera and tuberculosis, as well as non-communicable diseases such as cancer and coronary heart disease, will be studied. The effects of the defensive mechanisms of blood, together with drugs such as antibiotics, will also be studied.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 2: The Variety of Living Organisms

The variety of life is extensive and is reflected in similarities and differences in its biochemical basis and cellular organisation. In this unit the information carrying molecule DNA will be studied in relation to genetic diversity as will adaptations such as specialised exchange surfaces and mass transport systems. Classification systems which organise the variety of life according to relationships between organisms and the concept of a species will also be studied.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Biology (centre assessed)

You will be required to show that you can work safely in the laboratory, select appropriate methods, record and communicate data accurately and analyse, explain, interpret and evaluate results. Opportunities to carry out practical work are provided in the context of material contained in Units 1 and 2.
You will be assessed by coursework

Unit 4: Populations and Environment

This unit considers how living organisms form structured communities within ecosystems. It also looks at the part played by humans in ecological balance, which should lead to an understanding that sustainability of resources depends on effective management of the conflict between human needs and conservation. It is expected that candidates will carry out field work involving the collection of quantitative data from at least one habitat and carry out statistical analysis on the results.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 5: Control in Cells and in Organisms

The detection and response to stimuli in both animals and plants will be studied in this unit. Also, the way cells can control their activities by regulation or their genes in order to form specific tissues and organs will be studied. You will develop an appreciation of common ailments, such as diabetes, resulting from a breakdown of these control mechanisms and the use of DNA technology in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 6: Investigative and Practical Skills in A level Biology (centre assessed)

You will be required to show that you can work safely in the laboratory, select appropriate methods, record and communicate data accurately and analyse, explain, interpret and evaluate results. Opportunities to carry out practical work are provided in the context of material contained in Units 4 and 5.
You will be assessed by coursework

What else do I need to know?
You will be taught in modern well-equipped laboratories. Specialist textbooks will be provided for each student. CD-ROMS, video viewing facilities, texts and journals are available in the college library. Computer packages for Biology, Statistics and word-processing are available on the college network.
If you intend to enter a Biology-related profession such as medicine, pharmacy or biochemistry, or study Biology at certain universities, you will need to study A Level Chemistry alongside Biology.
Subjects that combine well with this course include Chemistry, Sports Studies, Geography, Statistics, Mathematics and Psychology, but a wide variety of subjects may be combined depending on your career aspirations and interests. The course is of particular value for students wishing to enter caring professions, medicine, physiotherapy, veterinary science, nursing, radiography, biochemistry, sports management, environmental work or teaching.