Biology GCE A Level
A Level
In Southport
Description
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Type
A Level
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Location
Southport
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Duration
2 Years
Biology is one of the largest, and most successful departments in the college. Grades and pass-rates are consistently high (well above the national average), and during the past 10 years we have entered almost 1000 students for A-level Biology. In 2007 all 109 students passed, with 62% gaining A or B grades. There are 3 fully equipped laboratories and students have their own microscope to use.
Important information
Government funding available
Facilities
Location
Start date
Start date
About this course
:
4 x GCSE B grades must include B in Biology or BB in Science
Reviews
Subjects
- Biology
- Science
- Biochemistry
- Animal Behaviour
- Animal Physiology
- Plant Science
- Plant Biology
- Horticulture
- Genetics
- Microbiology
Course programme
Biology GCE A Level
Qualification: AS/A2 - 2 year course
Course type: Level 3 (advanced)
Entry requirements:
4 x GCSE B grades must include B in Biology or BB in Science
Head of Department: Mr Cliff Sharp
Course assessment:
For AS, you will have the Module 1 exam in January of your first year. You will be examined on Module 2 in June. For A2, you will take Module 4 in January of the second year, and the final module in June.
There is also a Practical Assessment which makes up 20% of the final marks in both years.
What can this course offer me?
Biology is one of the largest, and most successful departments in the college. Grades and pass-rates are consistently high (well above the national average), and during the past 10 years we have entered almost 1000 students for A-level Biology. In 2007 all 109 students passed, with 62% gaining A or B grades.
There are 3 fully equipped laboratories and students have their own microscope to use in practical lessons; each lab has its own interactive whiteboard. The library is well stocked with Biology text books and other resources and there is an extensive Biology intranet site on the College computer network. You will be taught by one of the enthusiastic Biology staff, all of whom are experienced and extremely knowledgeable about the examining process.
What will I learn?
Students will study
- Cell structure and function
- Biochemistry
- Animal and plant physiology including adaptations to different environments
- Genes and genetic engineering
- The environment
- Microbiology
Students regularly carry out practical work which is usually done on an individual basis. Practical assessment at AS and A2 level is carried out in the lab and includes drawing tissues as seen down a microscope.
What Makes a good Biology student?
The ability to enjoy the subject! You need to demonstrate the ability to learn a lot of facts and apply them to different situations. Grade B is needed in GCSE Science (Dual Award or separate sciences). Students are expected to have a minimum of grade C
Which other courses link well with this subject?
The best ones to consider are Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Geography, Geology and Psychology. If you are thinking of studying any Biology related subject at university (including Medicine) you are advised to take Chemistry as well.
Future Opportunities
Biology is a rapidly growing and exciting science. With the discovery of new and improved biochemical techniques such as electron microscopy, biotechnology, DNA sequencing and genetic engineering, new opportunities are opening all the time. Biology qualifications can lead on to a huge variety of different careers from Neurosurgery, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Medicine to Forestry, Environmental Studies, Food Science, Sport Science, Horticulture and Laboratory work (including Forensics).
Is there anything else I need to know?
Biology GCE A Level