Biology

BIOLOGY

Why should I come to Pendleton College?
The Biology Department is part of a team described as 'outstanding' by Ofsted. It has two large, well-equipped laboratories with interactive white boards. The course gives the student an insight into many different areas of biology. Tutors at Pendleton have good contacts with staff at local universities and students have the opportunity to use their laboratories for specialised practicals. The biology tutors at Pendleton are well qualified and experienced, with a wide range of interests.

What will I study?
The biology course is modular. The three modules studied at AS Level are:

• Biology and Disease - Relates the functioning of the digestive, cardiovascular and gas exchange systems with diseases that affect them.
• The Variety of Living Organisms - Investigates inheritance and the role of DNA in this process. Describes the organisation of transport systems in living organisms and the development of biodiversity.
• Practical and Investigative Skills - Use of practical and analytical skills to investigate an area of Biology. The assessment will be in the form of practical assessments throughout the course and an investigative skills assignment.

To gain the full A-Level in biology three modules are taken at A2 Level:

Populations and Environment - How genetic variation leads to the development of new species, how humans interact with ecosystems and how energy and nutrients are passed through ecosystems.

Control in Cells and Organisms - An overview of how mammals regulate their internal environment and respond to stimuli as well as how DNA leads to observable features of organisms.

Practical and Investigative Skills - Use of practical and analytical skills to investigate an area of Biology. The assessment will be in the form of practical assessments throughout the course and an investigative skills assignment.

What will I achieve?
A-Level Biology is a highly desirable qualification for higher education courses such as medicine, dentistry, forensic science and vetinary science. It can also lead directly to courses in the biological sciences such as biochemistry, marine biology, zoology, botany and genetics. Students who study biology can also follow careers in other subjects such as law and accountancy.

How is the course assessed?
A-Level Biology is a modular course with external examinations held twice a year. The investigative skill components are examined through the generation of data in a class based experiment coupled with an exam paper completed in normal lesson slots.

What else will I do?
Practical work is an integral part of the course. Students wishing to do A2 biology will also be expected to attend a week long residential field trip in July to study ecology. Students will also visit local universities, Chester Zoo and can take part in the Institute of Biology quiz in June.