Biology

Biology is a challenging and fascinating subject, and it has many applications to everyday life. We currently follow the new OCR syllabus for the one-year course and the two-year course. The new course emphasises the importance of ‘How Science Works’ and builds upon the material covered in the current GCSE courses.

Exam Board:  OCR
Continuous assessed practicals

The AS-level

The AS qualification consists of two taught units and a practical component, based upon assessed practicals which are set by the examination board. In the taught units, we concentrate on cellular processes and structures, biological molecules, membranes, enzymes, transport systems in both plants and animals, gaseous exchange, diet, disease and its control, smoking, the concept of species, classification and the diversity of organisms.

The A2-level

Students take a further two units, which build upon the work of the AS and a practical component, based upon assessed practicals which are set by the examination board.

The taught units include the study of many physiological processes, including respiration, photosynthesis, the nervous system, homeostasis, and responses in plants. Additionally work is done on inheritance, protein synthesis, biotechnology, genetic engineering, ecosystems and animal behaviour.

It is possible to join us for the A2 having taken AS at another school, even if you have followed a different examination board – if this is the case you will follow the new OCR syllabus. Do contact us for advice on which is the best course for you to follow.

The one-year course

This covers similar material to the two-year A-level course, although it is taught at a faster rate and is therefore more focussed. Practical work is assessed in the same way as in the two-year course.

Fieldwork and practicals

Much of our fieldwork is carried out during the summer term of the lower-sixth year and includes day trips to areas of biological interest.

Practical work, including microscopy and experimental investigations, forms an important part of the course. During these practical sessions, students develop the skills necessary for them to complete the practical assessments for the new syllabus.

Background needed

Of course Biology at GCSE or a double certificate in Science, i.e. Science plus Additional Science, is ideal. However, if you are prepared to work very hard, you would be able to follow the course even with a limited background.

There is some biochemistry involved, and if you wish to study Biology at A-level it helps if you also take Chemistry, although additional help will be given in the individual tutorials if you encounter difficulties.

Along with the necessary good study skills that will be taught and the comprehensive textbooks that go with your course, you need to be prepared to read around the subject from periodicals such as ‘The Biological Sciences Review’ and the ‘New Scientist’. You will then be able to debate wider issues in our group lessons.

Suitable combinations

Biology combines well with all other science and non-science subjects.

After A-level

Biology is advised (though not absolutely required) for entry into Medicine and Veterinary Science and is essential for degrees in the Biological Sciences. There is also a very wide range of degrees where Biology is one of a pair for joint honours (the other being a non science) and a broadening range of courses in Marine and Environmental Biology.