Biology

This course can be combined with others and goes particularly well with Chemistry and Maths (A Level or Core Maths). Psychology, PE and Environmental Science are also popular combinations.

This course encourages you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of Biology and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations.

You will develop an understanding of scientific method and be aware of those scientific advances in technology that are relevant to the Biological Sciences. You will appreciate the value of and the responsible use of Biology in society. You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of Biology and learn to make and use connection between them.

This course is ideal if you enjoy learning about how processes in living organisms really happen and how all living organisms are interconnected. It is also ideal if you are interested in studying topics related to health and human effects on the environment.

You will be taught through lectures, group work, practical work, assignment and projects. Videos, IT equipment and visits are used as teaching aids and you will have access to fully equipped laboratories and also IT equipment. Various ongoing assessments are made by tests, essay writing and other exercises which do not contribute to the final exam.

Assessment will include written examinations which will include the assessment of your knowledge of practical procedures. There is a heavily weighted essay question on year 2 assessment. In addition to the written papers, you will complete 12 required practicals throughout the course using a range of biological techniques. This will lead to a Practical Endorsement alongside your A Level.

If you wish to focus on the study of human biology you could consider our Human Biology A Level.

What topics will I study?

Year 1:

• Biological molecules
• Organisms exchange substances with their environment
• Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
• Cell biology

Year 2:

• Energy transfers in and between organisms
• Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• The control of gene expression

You will:

• Study a range of topics relating to biology in year 1, including: biological molecules, cells, exchanges (how oxygen, carbon dioxide, water and nutrients are transported through the different organisms) and biodiversity.
• Study year 2 topics including energy transfers, responses, genetics and evolution and control of gene expression looks at how cells become specialised by altering which genes are switched on and off
• Develop your scientific and critical thinking skills
• Gain an understanding of scientific methods
• Learn about scientific advances in technology relevant to biology
• Take part in fieldwork
• Take part in a DNA technology workshop
• Improve your communication skills in science, including how to reference, writing a synoptic essay and lab reports
• Develop your practical and investigative skills through lab work in our modern laboratories
• Enhance your data analysis and evaluation skills

This course goes well in combination with Chemistry and Maths (A Level or Core Maths). Psychology, PE and Environmental Science are also popular combinations.

Future Steps: You could progress to university level for a career in pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and related health subjects. Progression routes include biological science, biochemistry, biomedical science, nursing, paramedic science, physiotherapy and radiography. Note that for the most competitive progression routes from A Level Biology, such as medicine or biology courses at top universities, A Level Chemistry is often required.

You will need grade 4 in English Language, grade 5 in Maths, grade 6 in Biology and Chemistry or grade 66 in Science, plus four more GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

You will have access to fully equipped laboratories in our Maths and Science Centre and PCs as well as access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC).

There are some costs of materials and resources.