Biology

BIOLOGY
AS and A2 LEVEL

MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
B in Additional Science or in Biology (Separate Science) and B in English and Maths

AIMS

• To be an interesting, enjoyable and relevant course
• To develop an understanding of how living things work
• To promote an awareness of the relationships between living things and their environment

ASSIGNMENTS
You will never lack something to do! Questions, experiment write-ups, background reading, essays, research and revision are all possible assignments.

CONTENTS
We will use the Edexcel specification and teach by a ‘context-led’ approach. This means you will learn Biology through real life up-to-date situations. There is a vast range of support available including a dedicated website with many web-links that you will be able to access at home or school. The course offers much more than just a text book.

In AS you will study 3 modules:

1. Lifestyle, Transport, Genes and Health
2. Development, Plants and the Environment
3. Practical Biology and Research Skills

In A2 the modules are;

1. The Natural Environment and Species Survival
2. Energy, Exercise and Coordination
3. Practical Biology and Investigative Skills

In the A2 year we will go on a field course and it will be necessary for you to pay for this. (The cost in 2007 was £170).

ASSESSMENT
There will be module examinations in January and June.
For AS coursework (12% of the overall mark) you will write a report on a visit or issue which interests you.
For A2 coursework (about 10% of the overall mark) you carry out an investigation.

USEFULNESS IN THE FUTURE
Biology and AS and A2 can be used for entry to a vast range of university courses. It is relevant to all throughout life and will train you to think scientifically, a skill useful in all careers.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE