Biology
Why study Biology?
Biology is the study of life itself, which makes it an incredibly fascinating, diverse and ever ‘evolving’ subject! Our understanding of the natural world continues to expand at a rapid rate, which means there has never been a better time to study all of its complexities.
The IGCSE in Biology provides a detailed and multi-layered look at the structure and function of living things, ranging from the molecular and microscopic up to the anatomy and physiology of the most complex and successful organisms on Earth. Throughout all key stages, we study a wide range of living organisms from across the five kingdoms. Our topics include infectious diseases, genetics and evolution, DNA technologies, nervous coordination and human influences on the environment, to name only a few. As our natural world continues to adapt and evolve, so too does our curriculum.
This engaging curriculum is further enhanced by an immersive program of experiments which bring a sense of purpose and context to our learning. These include dissections, population sampling, using microscopes, analysing enzyme function and testing effects on heart rate.
Biology is a subject which is relevant to all, but can also open a number of doors to future study and careers for those who develop a real passion and interest. Future doctors, nurses, veterinarians and similar roles will all rely on a foundation of biological knowledge during their studies and practices. However, there are hundreds of other post-16 courses and pathways which benefit from an IGCSE in Biology, making it a highly versatile and useful course. It not only expands your knowledge of the natural world, but helps to develop crucial skills like scientific communication, critical thinking and data processing. These are skills which are invaluable to a future employer.
What will I study?
Scientific skills - This introductory topic will focus on particular skills which are used in Biology and other sciences to collect, process and interpret data, as well as successfully carry out experimental work safely and effectively. This includes graph plotting, working with complex numbers, measuring, using microscopes and more.
The nature and variety of living organisms - This topic looks at the five kingdoms of life and the unique characteristics of each. We study the key differences between bacteria, fungi and viruses, and ask the question “what does it mean to be living?”.
Cellular biology - This topic builds on previous learning from KS3 and explores the fascinating microscopic world of cells. We will look at cells under the microscope and analyse the details of their structures, functions and unique roles that each type can have in living organisms.
Structures and functions in living organisms - Here we explore the various features and adaptations of animals and plants, studying the way in which they are best suited for survival in their environment. This begins with cell structure, and progresses to detailed overviews of organ systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous and reproductive. This topic also centres around two of the most fundamental reactions in biology - respiration and photosynthesis.
Ecology and the environment - This includes interpreting food chains and food webs, identifying prey-predator relationships, understanding population dynamics and ecological niches, and the impact of change on an ecosystem. We also explore some increasingly relevant themes including damage to aquatic habitats, deforestation and climate change.
Reproduction and inheritance - In this topic we develop an understanding of DNA and its structure. This progresses into the fascinating area of genetics where we provide an insight into how characteristics can be inherited between generations.
Use of biological resources - This topic highlights how biological processes can be used in industry for production. This includes manufacturing foods, use of fertiliser for crop growth, genetic engineering and cloning. Recent advances make this topic increasingly relevant in the modern world.
How will I be assessed?
Each topic will be completed by an end-of-topic test. These provide useful feedback throughout the course, and help to track progress and inform future revision. These do not contribute towards your final grade.
IGCSE Biology itself is assessed by means of:
One two-hour examination paper (common to the Dual Award)
One one-hour examination paper (specific to Triple Award),
Both papers allow the use of calculators.
There is only one tier of entry.
The examination board is Pearson Edexcel and the specification number is 4BI0. You can see the full specification here.
What else should I know?
The course begins in Year 9 to ensure there is plenty of time to cover the wide range of content in as much detail as possible. This also leaves time towards the end of Year 11 for effective revision in the lead-up to mock exams and summer exams. The course then separates into Double Award and Triple Award at the beginning of Year 10.
Biology complements many other subjects, such as Chemistry, Geography and Physical Education.
If considering A-Level Biology in the future, the Triple Award is preferred but not essential. A grade 7 or above in either award is desirable.
Support clinics are run weekly to ensure each student has additional contact time in Biology if needed.
If you have any queries about this curriculum, please contact: Mr Matt Ball, Head of Biology, on mb@farlingtonschool.com