Biology
Overview
Biology is a fascinating and popular choice of subject. Teaching is based around practical and tutorial sessions. Problem solving and communication skills are developed through class and independent study. Students are expected to analyse factual information and communicate their ideas in writing. The subject is taught on a topic basis and each topic is supported with a study guide that outlines the content and practical work.
Course Outline
AS Level
Unit 1 – Cells, Exchange and Transport
• Cells are the basic units of life; how organisms function because of communication and co-operation between specialised cells.
• In order to survive living cells need a supply of oxygen and nutrients; how these materials can enter the cell and how cells require specialised exchange surfaces and transport systems.
Unit 2 – Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health
• How proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids are key biological macromolecules with important roles in living organisms
• How humans make use of a wide variety of organisms for food, whereas other organisms cause disease
• How the theory of evolution explains the wide variety of organisms.
A2 Level
Unit 3 – Communication, Homeostasis and Energy
• How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment using controlled responses.
• How metabolic processes produce waste products and that excretion is an essential process for all living things.
• How organisms rely on possibly the most important biological process, photosynthesis.
• How respiration is one of the fundamental biological processes that takes place in all living things.
Unit 4 – Control, Genomes and Environment
• How genes control the way in which cells function.
• How natural processes have been harnessed and manipulated by humans for our benefit.
• How ecosystems work and how to manage them for sustainability and conservation.
• How plants and animals respond to environmental stimuli.
Assessment
Coursework assessment of practical and investigative skills within contexts encountered during AS or A2 Biology. Students will complete tasks in each course; qualitative tasks, quantitative tasks and evaluative tasks. (20%)
Examination (80%)
Examining Board – OCR
Special Entry Requirements
B grade or above in GCSE Additional Science or GCSE Biology and a B grade or above in GCSE Mathematics.
Prohibited Options
None.
Career Opportunities
Biology is a foundation for progression into dentistry, medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy and the full range of subjects embraced by the term biology. It is also a sound basis for progression into nursing, physiotherapy and other caring professions.
Teaching Methods
Each week you will be timetabled for four periods of 70 minutes each. These are used as follows:-
• One lesson will usually be a practical class, where you will develop new skills and demonstrate biological principles.
• The other three periods will be classroom-based lessons.
For convenience, the syllabus content will be broken into a series of topics, each normally lasting 2–3 weeks. At the beginning of each topic, you will be given a study guide outlining what will be covered and what you need to do in your independent study time.
In Biology there is a need for regular learning. Following the instructions laid out in the Study Guides will enable you to develop a successful learning strategy. Work will be set and tested at regular intervals.
Other Information
There is the opportunity in Year 12 to go on a fieldtrip. This will cost approximately £250.
This information is correct for September 2012 entry.