Course outline The A level biology course has a wide-ranging syllabus, ranging from biological molecules, cell structure and whole organisms, all the way up to ecosystems and human impact on the planet. It is a linear course, with synoptic assessment in all aspects, and all exams taken at the end of year 13. Throughout the two years, experiments are performed in class. Students are awarded an A level with or without Practical Endorsement dependent on their performance in these practicals. Lesson structure and expectations Lesson structure varies widely depending on the topic areas, but all are broken up into a number of differing activities. Some topics are theoretical only, whereas others have a large practical component, such as biological molecules. We perform far more practicals than the minimum set by the exam board. There are also lectures, discussions, student research and presentations. Trips are used to support syllabus learning, and to provide career inspiration and fieldwork opportunities beyond the school site. We have visited Whipsnade Zoo, the Wellcome Genome Campus, the Forest of Marston Vale and A level Biology Live. To be successful, students need to devote sufficient time to the subject. They will need to be organised, keep their notes up-to-date, and complete all homework promptly. Homework tasks will include essays, summaries, examination questions and practical reports. On top of this they will need to complete at least five hours of independent study per week, e.g. adding to their notes, completing background reading, making revision materials, and self-testing. Course requirements A grade 4 in English and grade 4 in mathematics, as well as a grade 6 in biology, or a 6-6 in combined science. Next steps There are a wide range of careers for which biology A level is useful or essential – in the medical, biological and environmental areas in particular. For further advice or guidance on possible next steps, students are advised to speak with their biology teachers or take advantage of Unifrog. Biology is an academic A level and is, therefore, an acceptable qualification for many careers that have no obvious requirement for biology.
About Education Provider
| Region | East of England |
| Local Authority | Central Bedfordshire |
| Ofsted Rating | Good |
| Gender Type | Mixed |
| Address | Flitwick Road, Ampthill, Bedford, MK45 2NU |
Course outline The A level biology course has a wide-ranging syllabus, ranging from biological molecules, cell structure and whole organisms, all the way up to ecosystems and human impact on the planet. It is a linear course, with synoptic assessment in all aspects, and all exams taken at the end of year 13. Throughout the two years, experiments are performed in class. Students are awarded an A level with or without Practical Endorsement dependent on their performance in these practicals. Lesson structure and expectations Lesson structure varies widely depending on the topic areas, but all are broken up into a number of differing activities. Some topics are theoretical only, whereas others have a large practical component, such as biological molecules. We perform far more practicals than the minimum set by the exam board. There are also lectures, discussions, student research and presentations. Trips are used to support syllabus learning, and to provide career inspiration and fieldwork opportunities beyond the school site. We have visited Whipsnade Zoo, the Wellcome Genome Campus, the Forest of Marston Vale and A level Biology Live. To be successful, students need to devote sufficient time to the subject. They will need to be organised, keep their notes up-to-date, and complete all homework promptly. Homework tasks will include essays, summaries, examination questions and practical reports. On top of this they will need to complete at least five hours of independent study per week, e.g. adding to their notes, completing background reading, making revision materials, and self-testing. Course requirements A grade 4 in English and grade 4 in mathematics, as well as a grade 6 in biology, or a 6-6 in combined science. Next steps There are a wide range of careers for which biology A level is useful or essential – in the medical, biological and environmental areas in particular. For further advice or guidance on possible next steps, students are advised to speak with their biology teachers or take advantage of Unifrog. Biology is an academic A level and is, therefore, an acceptable qualification for many careers that have no obvious requirement for biology.
