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WHY STUDY BIOLOGY?
Biology is all around us. It involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics which
range from biological molecules to the study of ecosystems; from microorganisms
to DNA structure. Biology plays a huge part in making us more aware of our
environment, how we have evolved, the spread of disease and how we survive
by maintaining our own internal environment.
COURSE CONTENT
In the first year of the course you will study units 1–4 (Biological Molecules; Cells,
Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things; Classification and Biodiversity; Exchange
and Transport). Then at the end of the year you will sit two exams where you will be
tested on these topics. In year two of the course you will study units 5-10 in more
detail and sit three exams at the end of the year. Topics 5-10 include: Energy for
Biological Processes; Microbiology and Pathogens; Modern Genetics; Origins of
Genetic Variation; Control Systems; Ecosystems. The exam papers include multiple-
choice, short open-response, calculations, extended writing and data analysis.
Each paper will also include questions that target understanding of
experimental methods.
ASSESSMENT DETAILS
As mentioned in the Course Content section, you will sit two exams in the first year.
These are both internally assessed. In the second year, you will sit three exams.
Two of which are 1 hr 45 minutes and are each worth 30% of the total qualification.
The third exam is 40 % of the total qualification and is 2 hours and 30 minutes.
In addition to your exams you will carry out and write up a series of required core
practicals over the two year course. These will aid you in learning new practical skills,
honing your scientific thinking, as well as improving your report writing. The practicals
are varied and range from studying the local flora with quadrats to calculating rate
of reaction using colorimeters. At the end of the course you will be given a ‘practical
endorsement’ acknowledgement. If you opt to take Biology, you must have at least
a grade of 5,5 and have sat the higher paper for GCSE. It is strongly suggested that
you take Core Maths or A Level Maths.
Biology can take you on many
pathways which include professions
such as medicine, dentistry,
veterinary science, physiotherapy,
pharmacy, optometry, nursing,
zoology or forensic science. Biology
is a very rewarding and challenging
course which develops many of the
skills essential for a successful career
even outside of the science field.
These include literacy, numeracy,
social awareness and making
connections between natural,
social, economic, political and
technological fields
