Sixth Form - Biology

Biology (AS and A2)
Course aims
(a) To develop an understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles and an appreciation of their significance.
(b) To promote an appreciation of the importance of experimental and investigatory work in the study of biology.
(c) To promote an interest in and enjoyment of the study of living organisms
(d) To promote an awareness and appreciation of the development and significance of biology in personal, social, environmental, economic and technological contexts.
(e) To be complete in itself and perform a useful educational function for students not intending to study biology at a higher level.
(f) To be a suitable preparation for higher education courses in biology, for biological studies in other establishments and for professional courses which require students to have a knowledge of biology when admitted.
(g) To provide opportunities for an understanding of spiritual, moral and cultural issues.

Course content
The A Level course is divided into six equal compulsory units.

Unit	How this is assessed	Examined	% of total AS examination	% of total A2 examination
Unit 1 –Biology and disease	Written paper (1hour 25mins)	January of Yr12	33.3%	16.6%
Unit 2 – The variety of living organisms	Written paper (1hour 45mins)	June of Yr12	46.9%	23.3%
Unit 3 – Investigative and practical skills in AS Biology	Investigative Skills Assessment (Practical task and written test based on collected data)	Throughout Yr12	20%	10%
Unit 4 – Populations and environment	Written paper (1hour 30mins)	January of Yr13		16.6%
Unit 5 – Control in cell and in organism	Written paper (2hours 15mins)	June of Yr13		23.3%
Unit 6 – Investigative and practical skills in A2 Biology	Investigative Skills Assessment (Practical task and written test based on collected data)	Throughout Yr13		10%

Commitment
The A Level course lasts two years. Teaching time is five periods per week. In addition all students attend a one-week residential Field Course during Year 13, for which some payment will be necessary.
Students should be aware that A Level biology is a far from easy option: it is heavily loaded with content and requires much independent work, so a firm commitment to the subject is essential.

Entry requirements
5 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including GCSE English. Also GCSE grade B in Separate or Double Award Science and Mathematics. Science and Mathematics grades should have been obtained through the Higher papers.