Biology (A Level)

Course summary

This course is designed to offer the students the opportunity to devise and plan experimental activities and to interpret, explain, evaluate and communicate their results. They also develop essential knowledge and understanding of the concepts of biology, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing times. Students also gain awareness of the ethical, technological and economic aspects of biology. This course will be invaluable for those wishing to progress into the medical fields. Year 1 Content • Development of practical skills in Biology Development of practical skills in Biology. This involves ongoing practical tasks that are used to learn practical skills and lead to a practical endorsement award at the end of the 2-year course. 15% of the marks in the exams are based on these skills. • Foundations in Biology Basic components of living systems, Biological molecules, Enzymes, Plasma membranes, Cell division. • Exchange and Transport Exchange surfaces and breathing, Transport in animals, Transport in plants. • Biodiversity, evolution and disease Classification and evolution, Biodiversity, Communicable diseases. Year 2 Content • Communication, homeostasis and energy Excretion, Animal responses, Plant responses, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Cellular control. • Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Patterns of inheritance, Evolution, Manipulating genomes, Cloning and Biotechnology, Ecosystems, Populations and Sustainability.