Biology A-Level (OCR) A-Level Biology is a very popular and successful course at Queen Mary’s High School. Biology is studied at a high level, with a range of topics preparing students to thrive at undergraduate level. We provide a learning environment that is supported by outstanding teachers which enables students to reach their full potential. We ensure that students are prepared to learn in depth within the classroom and are able to apply their understanding to a range of challenging scenarios. The outcomes within the department are exceptional. Last year, out of the 51 students sitting the exams, 28% achieved an A*(the national proportion was 13%), and 47% gained either an A or A* (the national proportion was 34%). Over 70% achieved an A*-B and all students passed their practical component. We also provide a range of opportunities outside the classroom. We run both a Medical Society and Dental Society in which current medical issues are debated, guest speakers come to share their experiences, and students are supported with early UCAS entry and medical interviews. We participate in competitions like the National Biology Olympiad in which students compete to achieve a medal by demonstrating their knowledge of biology. Students are sign-posted to literature, webinars and further resources to support their independent study. All students studying Biology develop critical reasoning, analytical and evaluation skills, the ability to handle and analyse complex data, written and oral communication skills, and independent work skills including time management and self-motivation. Course Overview Year 12 • Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology • Module 2 – Foundations in Biology • Module 3 – Exchange and transport • Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease Year 13 • Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy • Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Assessment Model At least 15% of the question paper assessment covers knowledge and understanding of practical, and at least 10% of the question paper assessment covers mathematical skills. • Paper 1 – Written examination (2¼ hours) 37% of A-Level • Paper 2 – Written examination (2¼ hours) 37 % of A-Level • Paper 3 – Written examination (1½ hours) 26% of A-Level Papers 1 and 2 contain a section A that is 15 marks of multiple choice questions and a section B that has structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills worth 85 marks. Paper 3 is 70 marks of structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills. The practical component is a teacher assessed component where candidates complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence. Career Opportunities Biology is a demanding course that prepares students for a career in many fields. Students are equipped with a variety of skills that are highly desirable within the scientific sector and other demanding professions. Biology is a core subject for anyone thinking of working within the fields of medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and the healthcare sector. Previous students have also gone onto study degree level in Optometry, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Nursing, Zoology, Midwifery, Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Radiotherapy, Audiology, Biological Sciences, Natural Sciences, Biomedical Science and teaching.
About Education Provider
| Region | West Midlands |
| Local Authority | Walsall |
| Ofsted Rating | Outstanding |
| Gender Type | Girls |
| Address | Upper Forster Street, Walsall, WS4 2AE |
Biology A-Level (OCR) A-Level Biology is a very popular and successful course at Queen Mary’s High School. Biology is studied at a high level, with a range of topics preparing students to thrive at undergraduate level. We provide a learning environment that is supported by outstanding teachers which enables students to reach their full potential. We ensure that students are prepared to learn in depth within the classroom and are able to apply their understanding to a range of challenging scenarios. The outcomes within the department are exceptional. Last year, out of the 51 students sitting the exams, 28% achieved an A*(the national proportion was 13%), and 47% gained either an A or A* (the national proportion was 34%). Over 70% achieved an A*-B and all students passed their practical component. We also provide a range of opportunities outside the classroom. We run both a Medical Society and Dental Society in which current medical issues are debated, guest speakers come to share their experiences, and students are supported with early UCAS entry and medical interviews. We participate in competitions like the National Biology Olympiad in which students compete to achieve a medal by demonstrating their knowledge of biology. Students are sign-posted to literature, webinars and further resources to support their independent study. All students studying Biology develop critical reasoning, analytical and evaluation skills, the ability to handle and analyse complex data, written and oral communication skills, and independent work skills including time management and self-motivation. Course Overview Year 12 • Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology • Module 2 – Foundations in Biology • Module 3 – Exchange and transport • Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease Year 13 • Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy • Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Assessment Model At least 15% of the question paper assessment covers knowledge and understanding of practical, and at least 10% of the question paper assessment covers mathematical skills. • Paper 1 – Written examination (2¼ hours) 37% of A-Level • Paper 2 – Written examination (2¼ hours) 37 % of A-Level • Paper 3 – Written examination (1½ hours) 26% of A-Level Papers 1 and 2 contain a section A that is 15 marks of multiple choice questions and a section B that has structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills worth 85 marks. Paper 3 is 70 marks of structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills. The practical component is a teacher assessed component where candidates complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence. Career Opportunities Biology is a demanding course that prepares students for a career in many fields. Students are equipped with a variety of skills that are highly desirable within the scientific sector and other demanding professions. Biology is a core subject for anyone thinking of working within the fields of medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and the healthcare sector. Previous students have also gone onto study degree level in Optometry, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Nursing, Zoology, Midwifery, Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Radiotherapy, Audiology, Biological Sciences, Natural Sciences, Biomedical Science and teaching.
