A LEVEL BIOLOGY
BIOLOGY A-LEVEL
Exam Board: OCR A-Level Biology.
What are the benefits of the course?
You will develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of biology, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations. In addition, you will develop an understanding of scientific methods, gain an understanding of the importance of advances in technology, and recognise the value and responsible use of biology in society, thus sustaining your enjoyment of, and interest in the subject. There is a large focus on practical skills which will be utilised in lessons throughout the course.
The A-Level specification encourages students to show knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of biology and to make and use connections between them.
What will I study?
Year 12 Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology
Practical activities will be used to develop and assess competency in practical skills and to review key content, transitioning from GCSE to Key
Stage 5. The skills developed in this module will be utilised throughout the course.
Module 2 – Foundations in Biology
Module 3 – Exchange and Transport
Year 13 Module 4 – Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease
Module 5 – Communications, Homeostasis and Energy
Module 6 – Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems
How will I be assessed?
The course follows the OCR syllabus. Studying the A-Level, you will sit three written exams at the end of the second year. Paper 1 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Paper 2 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Paper 3 assesses content from modules 1 to 6.
Additionally, you will complete a set of practical investigations throughout the course which will be teacher-assessed and lead to an additional practical skills grade, separate from your overall GCE grade.
What does it lead to?
Biology is an important subject in its own right with many applications and implications within modern society. This course is a broad-based course with terminal exams, suited to candidates who wish to study a range of subjects at Higher Education. The practical skills will prepare you for a future studying and practising sciences and science-related subjects at a higher level.
Entry Requirements:
Grade 6-6 in Combined Science or 6 or more in GCSE Biology and a minimum of a 5 in English and Maths.
There is an expectation that all students studying A-Level Biology also take the AS Core Maths qualification to enhance their numeracy skills.
Staff Contact:
Miss S Anderson, Second in Science