biology

A LEVEL

Course Overview

The course aims to give students a grounding in the principles of biology.

It starts by explaining the molecular and cellular bases of life and then uses this grounding to explain the key processes that life entails, including transport, defence, ecology, evolution and a comprehensive understanding of the metabolic pathways in photosynthesis and respiration.

Human physiology forms an important part of the course and students gain an insight into how the main organ systems work. Genetics and cellular control are also vital topics studied, and students have the opportunity to get hands-on with a field trip. 

Target Audience

Students must have an inquisitive nature and show great enthusiasm for biology. Organised students who work hard will be successful on this course. Self-reliance is an important quality as independent background reading will be essential. Students need to engage in all aspects of practical work and adopt a methodical approach to improve their scientific skills. 

Year 12 Units

Foundations in Biology

Biology is the study of life, and this unit provides an understanding of the similarities that all organisms share. You will study cellular structure, including the structure and function of membranes and how cells multiply. You will also learn about the biochemistry underlying life, including DNA and enzymes.

Exchange and transport

Building on the fundamentals from the previous module, you will study the structure and function of both gas exchange and transport systems in plants and animals such as mammals, fish and insects.

biodiversity, evolution and disease

In this module you will learn about the classification of organisms, the need to maintain biodiversity and how  biodiversity can be measured. You will also discover how pathogens cause disease in a variety of contexts and the ingenious ways in which plants and animals have evolved defences to deal with disease. The impact of evolution is discussed and Natural Selection, the mechanism underlying changes in populations  is explained. Finally, the relationships between organisms are studied, considering variation, evolution and phylogeny. 

Year 13 Units

Communication, homeostasis and energy

Building on Year 12 work, students will study chemical and electrical communication systems in detail. The importance of communication to homeostasis in the body is taught, with control of temperature, blood sugar and blood water potential as examples. In addition, you will learn the biochemical pathways of photosynthesis and respiration in detail, with explanations of how organisms can maximise and benefit from these processes.

genetics, evolution and ecosystems

Using the fundamentals learned in Year 12, students will learn how genes regulate and control cell function and development in organisms. Modern practical genetic techniques used to manipulate DNA such as sequencing and amplification are explained and their use in medical and criminal investigations explored.

You will develop an appreciation of the role of microorganisms in recycling materials within the environment and maintaining balance within ecosystems. The need to conserve environmental resources in a sustainable fashion is considered, whilst appreciating the potential conflict arising from the needs of an increasing human population. 

sample lesson

example work

4 Transcription
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Support sessions

Biology Drop-in sessions are offered every Monday and Wednesday after school throughout the two year course.

Students use these sessions to deal with areas they have found tricky from any part of the course.

Higher Education Progression Routes

Biology

A Biology degree involves studying the natural world and the organisms that live there.

You will study how a vast range of living things work, how they evolve and their impact on each other. 

The degree is a great starting point for both scientific and non-scientific careers thanks to the skills it promotes.

Medicine

A degree in Medicine is a prerequisite for training as a medical doctor. This lengthy course would be the first stage in your training as a doctor, followed often by the UK foundation programme to practise medicine in the UK. Several specialisms are available within medicine to allow you to pursue your field of interest.

Environmental science

Environmental science equips students with a clear understanding of major environmental issues, such as the impacts of global warming, erosion and flooding, microplastics and their effect on natural systems. This is combined with an understanding of how human impacts can be managed to allow development in a sustainable manner.

You learn about the impact humans have on the environment and how to manage it at a local, national and international level.

Future Careers

Medical professional

Biology A Level is useful to a large range of medical professions, including prospective Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, Midwives, Ophthalmologists, Physiotherapists

Research scientist

The skills and understanding developed during A Level Biology can be used in research of various kinds, including disease research, forensic science, pharmaceutical and climate change study.

Science writer

With the increased visibility of science in society, the ability to communicate with your target audience is crucial for many businesses and organisations. A Science writer may cover the latest developments in the field for a news organisation, for policy planners or for a business seeking to promote it's green credentials.

Student Destinations

Students studying this course in recent years have progressed onto: