AS/A Level Biology and Human Biology

AS/A Level Biology and Human Biology

Why choose Biology or Human Biology?
These courses are vital to many careers, so if you want to be a doctor, dentist, vet, nurse, conservation officer or master brewer, then this is the subject for you. It can also lead to academic research posts, for example in pathology or forensic science.

Biology

The Biology course builds from biological molecules through cells and organelles, to tissues and organs and how they are all co-ordinated together to make a whole living organism. The topics are approached from a 'How Science Works' perspective and include experimentation where appropriate. The course also considers the effect of living organisms on the planet as a whole and the mechanisms by which life evolves.

Human Biology

Human Biology has many core topics in common with Biology but has a thematic approach relating to contemporary issues, emphasising factors that may affect peoples' health and how they interact with and affect their own environment and ecosystems.
If diet, human diseases, allergies, origins of man, cultural and physical developments, reproduction and IVF appeal to you then Human Biology is the course for you!

Resources and Facilities
Three well-equipped laboratories are used for practical work. Video and CD ROM/Internet facilities are available when required

Teaching and Learning Styles
A variety of styles is used including: student-centred activities, eg small group or individual research for a topic; workshops for more individual attention; and whole class work, including practical work

Assessment
AS Biology and Human Biology unit exams may vary by 15 minutes but are about 1 hour 30 minutes long (Exams in January and June). Practical assessment once a year is through externally assessed practical with written papers (EMPA) offered in March.

A2 Biology and Human Biology unit exams may vary by 30 minutes but are a minimum of 1 hr 30 minutes long (Exams in January and June). Practical assessment once a year is through externally assessed practical with written papers (EMPA) offered in March.

Extra-Curricular Activities

A field day/week is offered for those students interested in ecology.
Revision days for each unit.

Progression Opportunities
Many students go on to study vocational courses like medicine, genetics, zoology, plant science or ecology. There are a huge number of different Higher Education courses linked to Biology/Human Biology. Afterwards, the Civil Service (DEFRA), major biotechnology companies, water companies etc provide ample employment opportunities.