Why should I study Biology?
Biology provides the opportunity for you to increase your depth and breadth of knowledge in many areas, such as cell biology, human health and disease, physiology, microbiology and biochemistry. The course aims to stimulate interest in biological topics and to help you think in a more scientific way. Practical skills will be acquired as the course progresses and you will find that you can make more informed decisions about factors that may influence your lifestyle and health.
What will I study?
AS Units
The units cover a diverse range of biological topics including:
- Microscopy
- Cell structure and function
- Cell membranes and transport across membranes
- Biological molecules and their importance
- Enzymes
- DNA and RNA
- Cell division
- Introductory genetics
- Biodiversity and classification
- Aspects of evolution
- Infectious diseases
- Food and Health
- Circulatory system and the heart
- Plant transport
- Bioethics – social and ethical issues
A2 Units
Some of these topics include:
- Photosynthesis
- Respiration
- Homeostasis
- The nervous system
- Genomes and Biotechnology
- Ecosystems and the natural environment
- Plant and animal behaviour
- Variation
What are the entry requirements?
Normal college entry requirements plus grade B in Biology or grade B Additional Science Module plus a grade C in GCSE Maths. GCSE grade B Maths would be an advantage.
What skills do I need?
- Are prepared to work hard to acquire knowledge
- Are willing to learn practical skills
- Are keen to develop analytical skills
- Have an interest in Biology
How will I be taught?
You will be taught by at least two teachers, who will employ a variety of methods to enable you to achieve success. All students are encouraged to work at their own level and to fulfil their potential. Support on an individual level is always available.
How is the course assessed?
AS Units:
- Two theory (written) exams
- Practical skills, internally assessed
A2 Units:
- As in year one plus
- Two theory (written) exams
- Practical skills, internally assessed
What will this course prepare me for?
A higher education course and career which make use of Biology A Level. These include: medicine, nursing, midwifery, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, radiography, biochemistry, chiropody, genetics, optics, pharmacology, pharmacy, teaching, microbiology, biomedical sciences, orthoptics, speech therapy, environmental science, marine biology and ecology.
Private Study
As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.
What materials will I need to purchase?
Not applicable
Examining Board
OCR
Biology is for you if
You are good at science, have an interest in living things and you are good at learning facts, solving problems and you enjoy practical work.
Biology is not for you if
You dislike learning a large amount of content and struggle with solving problems and calculations in exams.
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