Biology

EdExcel

The Biology course has been designed to engage and inspire students by showing how an understanding of many contemporary issues, such as genetic modification or climate change, requires a grasp of the fundamental ideas of Biology. You will start each topic by considering an application that draws on different areas of Biology, such as cystic fibrosis or heart disease, and then move onto the Biology which underpins this.

You can be successful in taking Biology as a free-standing science, although it complements Chemistry particularly well, and if you wish to study for a science degree you should study two science subjects.
Success in A-level Biology will prepare you for a range of degree courses leading to rewarding careers in medicine, veterinary and forensic science, science journalism and many, many more.

AS Biology

Between ‘aardvark’ and ‘zorilla’ (yes, there is such an animal!) are about 30 million different kinds of living thing. In spite of this incredible variety, a lot of the features of their structure and biochemistry are surprisingly similar.
In AS Biology you learn about fundamental principles such as cell structure, genetics, DNA and enzymes that help you to make sense of the big picture. You will also study human health and disease, an area where research is pushing back the boundaries of our knowledge on a daily basis.

You will study two units:
• Lifestyle, transport, genes and health.
• Development, plants and the environment.

There is a large practical component written into the course and you will become expert in using microscopes and a range of biochemical techniques.

Assessment

Two written examinations.
Coursework – a report on a visit to a research institution.

Entry requirements

A minimum of BBCCC at GCSE including English/English Language and at least a B in Additional Science or Biology.

A2 Biology

In A2 Biology you will explore new themes, but many build on the principles learnt in AS Biology.

At A2 you will study:
• How plants create the ‘wealth’ in photosynthesis and animals ‘spend’ it in respiration.
• How we resist invading armies of microbes as studied in infection and forensics.
• Interactions between living things will be investigated in ecology and this will involve practical fieldwork.
• ‘Run for your life’: muscles and athletic performance – something which will be of interest to students with a leaning towards sport.
• ‘Grey matter’: the operation of our most complex and extraordinary body part, the human brain.

Assessment

Two written examination papers and an individual practical investigation in a topic that interests you. Past topics have included the effectiveness of sun screens, why apples go brown and the antibacterial properties of garlic.