GCSE Biology

Biology
This course is designed for students who need a GCSE Level 2 Science qualification for their future careers, but did not achieve this at school.

It aims to encourage students to acquire a systematic body of scientific knowledge and to be able to apply this to new and changing situations in a range of domestic, industrial and environmental contexts. It also emphasizes explaining, theorizing and modelling in science.

Importance is attached to the knowledge, skills and understanding of how science works in the world at large as well as in the laboratory.
This course will develop the practical skills in planning and carrying out a range of investigations, using ICT where appropriate.

What Will I learn on this Course?

AQA BIOLOGY SPECIFICATION
GCSE 4411

The course encourages students to:

• Develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for science
• Develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods
• Acquire and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works and its essential role in society
• Acquire scientific skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for progression to further learning

Course Content and Method of Assessment

The course is based on four units each one covering a specific aspect of scientific study.

Unit One is called 'How Science Works' and looks at the fundamental principles about investigations from developing ideas and designing an investigation to making measurements, presenting data and evaluating your work.

Unit Two looks at the human body and humans as a species, expanding to consider what actually makes a species different from another one and how we as a species affect the environment.

Unit Three is all about what goes on inside cells and how they produce energy. It also considers how that energy is passed through the food chain.

Unit Four is very much a physiology section: transport of substances in the body, the effects of exercise. However it also considers the role of microorganisms.

The Scheme of Assessment will comprise of 4 units. Biology 1, 2 and 3 are written papers based on short answer and multiple choice. Biology 4 will be the centre-assessed unit which comprises an Investigative Skills Assignment based on normal class practical work followed by an externally set, internally assessed test taking 45 minutes, and a Practical Skills Assessment testing what has been leant in 'How Science Works'

After the Course

Use this subject to gain entry to AS courses, to provide backup for Applied A2s and entry onto higher educational courses.

Subject Combinations

Health & Social Care

Entry Requirements

Minimum requirement is a DD in Science [Foundation]