Biology

Course summary

This course encourages candidates to develop their interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology. Candidates will appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. Candidates will demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works as well as develop essential knowledge of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other. Y12 Curriculum: Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation Module 2 – Foundations in biology Includes: Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides and nucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation Module 3 – Exchange and transport Includes: Exchange surfaces, Transport in animals, Transport in plants. Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease Includes: Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system, Biodiversity, Classification and evolution. Y13 Curriculum: Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation Module 2 – Foundations in biology Includes: Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides andnucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation Module 5 – Communications, homeostasis and energy Includes: Communication and homeostasis, excretion as an example of homeostatic control, Neuronal communication, Hormonal communication, Plant and animal responses, Photosynthesis, Respiration. Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Includes: Cellular control, Patterns of inheritance, manipulating genomes, Cloning and biotechnology, Ecosystems, Populations and sustainability. Learning Beyond the Classroom: This course provides several opportunities for candidates to develop and learn outside the confines of the classroom. Enrichment: Biology students will be expected to take the opportunity to attend a range of evening lectures at London Universities. In addition to this they will be given the opportunity to attend our STEM careers day where they can network with science professionals to gain work placement opportunities. The department has strong links with both Imperial and Kings College allowing our pupils opportunities to gain places on mentoring programmes and summer schools. Skills and Qualities for Study at KS5 and beyond The following skills are essential during this course and beyond. • Motivation • Passion for all things biological • Good interdependent and independent skills • Problem solving • Excellent written and oral communication skills (good interview technique) • Access to extra reading to include current issues in the news.