Post 16

AS Biology

To be accepted onto the A Level course of study in Year 12 pupils are expected to have achieved at least 5 GCSEs (A* - C) including Double Science and Mathematics (and preferably B grades in Science).

Alis predicted scores will also be used to give an indication to students of their likely AS grade and whether they are statistically likely to successfully complete the course.

The AS and A2 qualification in Biology should appeal to students who are interested in the detail of how living organisms work and enjoy carrying out investigations in the lab or as field work. Pupils interested in pursuing further qualifications in biological fields, such as Medicine, Dentistry, Biochemistry or Microbiology would clearly benefit from studying A-Level Biology.

The current AS Course follows these Modules.  (There will be a new specification to follow in September 2008 which shares some components.)

Module 1 Molecules, Cells and Systems (35% of AS mark; 17.5% of A level mark)

Cells
Cell transport
Biological molecules
Enzymes
The control of breathing and heartbeat
Energy and exercise

Module 2 Making use of Biology (35% of AS mark; 17.5% of A level mark)

Applications of enzymes
The cell cycle
The genetic code
Gene technology
Principles of immunology
Biotechnological applications in plants and animals

Module 4 AS Coursework (30% of AS mark; 15% of A level mark)

10 assessed skills including:-
School based practical investigations
Essay writing
Drawing and representation of samples

A field trip, which requires a voluntary contribution, is organised is the summer term. (This field trip is essential for studying the ecosystems topics at A2.)
 

A2 Biology

To progress to A2 a successful completion of AS at (at least) Grade D is preferable.
The current A2 Course follows these Modules.  (There will be a new specification to follow in September 2009.)

Module 5 Inheritance, Evolution and Ecosystems (15% of A level mark)

Inheritance
Variation
Selection and evolution
Classification
Dynamics of ecosystems
Studying ecosystems (in the summer term of the AS year)
Photosynthesis
Energy flow through ecosystems
Respiration
Energy supply
How materials are recycled in ecosystems
Human activities can impose far-reaching effects on the environment

Module 6 Physiology and the Environment (15% of A level mark)

Passage of water through a plant
Homeostasis
Gas exchange systems
Digestion
Insect metamorphisis
Nervous coordination

Module 8a Applying Biological Principles (10% of A level mark)

Assessment of the content of all the taught Modules

Module 8b A2 Coursework (10% of A level mark)

School based practical investigations