AS/A LEVEL BIOLOGY

WHAT IS BIOLOGY?

Biology is the science of life. It is concerned with the characteristics and behaviours of organisms, how species and individuals come into existence, and the interactions they have with each other and with their environment.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY BIOLOGY?

You may need a Biology qualification for your future career, for example if you want to be a doctor, vet, physiotherapist or dentist. The best reason for studying Biology is because it interests you. The majority of the course is suited to those with an interest in Human Biology, but there are also topics that will appeal to those interested in the natural environmental.

USEFUL SKILLS & INTERESTS

The course suits those who like to have facts to learn rather than a more creative approach. There is a lot of practical work, so it helps if you enjoy this. There is also a need to be able to use straightforward mathematical techniques, and to be able to express yourself clearly in written work.

COURSE STRUCTURE & CONTENT

The AS is made up of the following three modules:

Module 1 - Cells, Exchange and Transport

• Cells
• Exchange and Transport

Module 2 - Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health

• Biological Molecules
• Enzymes
• Biodiversity and Classification
• Variation, Adaptation and Evolution
• Human Interactions

Module 3 Practical Skills in Biology 1

• Internal assessment of practical skills

Progression to A2 will depend on how you have coped with the AS modules.  Your tutors will advise you on this matter.

The A level is made of the three AS modules plus the following:

Module 4 - Communications, Homeostasis and Energy

• Communication
• Nerves and Hormones
• Excretion
• Photosynthesis and Respiration

Module 5 - Control, Genomes and Environment

• Cellular Control
• Biotechnology
• Ecosystems and Sustainability
• Responding to the Environment

Module 6 - Practical skills in Biology 2

• Internal assessment of practical skills

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

The AS consists of two examined modules and the first module exam will be taken in January of your first year. The final module exam will be taken in June. Practical Skills in Biology 1 are internally assessed during the first year of the course. The A’ level course consists of an additional 3 modules. One module exam will be taken in January of the second year. The other second year module exam will be taken in June. Practical skills in Biology 2 are internally assessed during the second year of the course.

COURSE COMMITMENT

There is a lot of work to get through in this subject and students find that they need a high level of commitment to keep up with the work. As well as attending lessons there is additional private study that amounts to about 4 hours per week. In addition to this, students often find that they need to get extra help from teachers between lessons. Additional support sessions may be compulsory for some students if their GCSE Science qualifications are not the recommended ones.

COURSE COSTS

There are no compulsory costs involved in studying Biology, but students can buy additional revision guides at approx. £15 per year and we run a number of optional trips costing from £3 – £20 each.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

You should have achieved at least grade C in two Science GCSEs, preferably Core Science plus Additional Science, or separate Sciences. You should also have achieved at least grade C in GCSE Maths and English. Students following the Additional Applied Science route should consult the department.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Biologists go into health-related careers such as becoming Dieticians, Radiographers or Opticians. They may combine Biology with other Life Science subjects, such as Physical Education or Psychology, and enter careers in those areas. Forensics and Pharmacology are popular choices for Biology students, but there are many non-vocational degrees in Biology for those who want to study it at degree level but do not have a particular career in mind. Many degree courses that involve Biology will also require A’ levels in Mathematics and/or Chemistry. For those students who prefer work–based training, Biology can provide the Science qualification that may be asked for.

FURTHER INFORMATION

A complete copy of the subject specifications can be seen on the internet website for OCR, the examining board.  You need to visit the following site, www.ocr.org.uk. T

he specifications you need are as follows.

It is important that you download the correct set of specifications.

If you would like further information please contact Stephen Smith, the Department Manager or Fiona Jones, the Assistant Department Manager.