A Level - Biology

Course Summary

Subject: Biology

Course Title: A Level - Biology

Course Types: Sixth Form

Course Level: A-Level

Course Description

Introduction and Course Description

Biology is the study of living organisms. The subject is a two year linear course with the A Level examination at the end of Year 13. Regular assessment will occur in each teaching unit in the form of two graded marked assessments and an end of topic test.

Year 12

Students will cover Cell Biology, Biological Molecules, Ecology, Exchange and Transport, Immunity and Digestion and will also undertake a practical skills component.

Year 13

In addition to the Year 12 modules, students will cover the Biochemistry of Photosynthesis and Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, Nervous Responses and Ecosystems. The A Level course will also include a practical skills component and the questions will be more challenging than Year 12.

How will I be assessed?

Year 12

Students will be assessed internally throughout the year, with graded mini assessments and end of topic tests. At the end of Year 12 an Internal Reference Examination will be taken to establish an estimated grade for UCAS applications.

Year 13

A Level assessment will take the form of three papers at the end of the course, with practical skills assessed internally.

Future Opportunities

Biology is a popular A Level and allows for direct entry to undergraduate courses relating to the increasingly important Biological Sciences. Not only does this course allow entry to prestigious universities but also teaches skills of data analysis, mathematical and statistical methods, presenting and organising information and an ability to challenge concepts. Many universities demand A-level Biology for entry to the following:

• Medicine
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology/Genetics
• Microbiology
• Dentistry
• Veterinary Science
• Biotechnology
• Physiotherapy
• Marine Biology

Careers in Education, Psychology, Food Health and Business, Environmental Management will all require skills and knowledge that can be gained from this course. In an ever changing world, where gene technology and environmental change begin to impact on our everyday lives, a full understanding of the important principles becomes increasingly valuable.

Is there anything else I should know?

Biology should not be seen as the ‘easy option’ of the sciences offered at A Level. This is a demanding, yet enjoyable, course that will test you by stimulating your interest and challenge pre-conceived ideas. Throughout, the extensive use of new outlooks and language, exposure to up-to-date technologies and high expectations means that students must have achieved at least a Grade ‘7’ at GCSE Biology in order to enter the course. Those entering from the Combined Science Trilogy scheme must achieve at least Grades ‘7’. Candidates who do not achieve these grades will be considered on an individual basis.

Course Entry Guidelines

Throughout, the extensive use of new outlooks and language, exposure to up-to-date technologies and high expectations means that students must have achieved at least a Grade ‘7’ at GCSE Biology in order to enter the course. Those entering from the Combined Science Trilogy scheme must achieve at least Grades ‘7’. Candidates who do not achieve these grades will be considered on an individual basis.

See what career this course can give you access

Related Courses