Biology- AS/A2 Level

Biology- AS/A2 Level
Exam Board: EDEXCEL NCS course code: AS-ASBIOAP/A2-A2BIOAP
Aim This course gives you the opportunity to learn about living organisms in greater depth. The course involves all aspects of biology - there is no separate Human Biology option now. If you enjoy this subject, you will find the study of the biological issues and challenges facing society today very interesting.
Content During the course you will:
· Improve your understanding of biological topics
· Develop your skills in laboratory procedures and research techniques
· Understand how a knowledge of biology is fundamental to many issues in our lives
· Develop your ability to critically analyse data and draw conclusions.

Year 1 - AS level
1. Lifestyle, transport, genes and health.
2. Development, plants and the environment.
3. Practical biology and research skills. Some of your practical experiments will be assessed and you will write a report on a biological topic which you have researched.

Year 2 - A level
4. The natural environment and species survival.
5. Energy, exercise and co-ordination.
6. Practical biology and investigation skills. You will plan and carry out a practical project to test a hypothesis.

You will take a written exam for units 1, 2, 4 and 5.

Progression/career opportunities
The successful completion of this course will allow students to progress on to a range of Higher Education programmes or into a career involving laboratory work.

Extra information
You will need a laboratory coat and safety glasses which you can purchase at cost from the College. You will also need a scientific calculator with log and ln keys.

Screening
Students will also be screened (in the College) and must achieve literacy and numeracy at the level appropriate to the course.