The Edexcel B specification is designed to build an appreciation of the structure and physiology of a variety of organisms and the significance of human interactions with the environment. You will also consider how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. The course in Year 12 matches the AS level Biology specification and builds on knowledge from GCSE in addition to introducing new ideas and concepts. You will be studying four units: 1. Biological Molecules; 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things; 3: Classification and Biodiversity; 4. Exchange and transport. In the latter part of Year 12 and continuing into Year 13, a further six additional units are studied: 5: Energy for Biological processes; 6. Microbiology and Pathogens; 7. Modern Genetics; 8. Origins of Genetic Variation; 9. Control Systems; 10. Ecosystems. Biology is an experimental Science so you will carry out a range of laboratory and field-based activities to enhance your understanding and develop your practical skills. This course gives you opportunities to use relevant apparatus to develop practical skills and demonstrate competency in a range of practical techniques. You will be assessed on your ability to use 12 specific techniques and skills listed through carrying out a number of identified practical activities within this specification, which will allow you to gain the Science Practical Endorsement for Biology in addition to your A Level grade. These practical competencies will also be assessed in the external examinations.
- 8 GCSEs (or DfE recognised equivalent) grades 9-5 or A* - B, two of which must be English Language and Mathematics. - BTEC Level 2 at Distinction*, Distinction or Merit will be accepted - GCSE short courses cannot be accepted. - At least a 6 or grade B at GCSE in the subjects to be studied at AS/A-level, apart from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics which requires a 7 or grade A at GCSE. - Grade A or 7 or above in the Higher Tier is an entry requirement for Mathematics and/or Science AS/A level courses. Students who have taken Foundation Tier - GCSE courses in Mathematics and Sciences (rather than Higher Tier) are unlikely to have covered all the appropriate topics from which they can move on to A-level in the context of this school. - Students who wish to study Further Mathematics must achieve at Grade A* or 9-8 in GCSE Mathematics
Examination (100%)
About Education Provider
| Region | South East |
| Local Authority | Reading |
| Ofsted Rating | Outstanding |
| Gender Type | Girls |
| Address | London Road, Reading, RG1 5BN |
The Edexcel B specification is designed to build an appreciation of the structure and physiology of a variety of organisms and the significance of human interactions with the environment. You will also consider how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. The course in Year 12 matches the AS level Biology specification and builds on knowledge from GCSE in addition to introducing new ideas and concepts. You will be studying four units: 1. Biological Molecules; 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things; 3: Classification and Biodiversity; 4. Exchange and transport. In the latter part of Year 12 and continuing into Year 13, a further six additional units are studied: 5: Energy for Biological processes; 6. Microbiology and Pathogens; 7. Modern Genetics; 8. Origins of Genetic Variation; 9. Control Systems; 10. Ecosystems. Biology is an experimental Science so you will carry out a range of laboratory and field-based activities to enhance your understanding and develop your practical skills. This course gives you opportunities to use relevant apparatus to develop practical skills and demonstrate competency in a range of practical techniques. You will be assessed on your ability to use 12 specific techniques and skills listed through carrying out a number of identified practical activities within this specification, which will allow you to gain the Science Practical Endorsement for Biology in addition to your A Level grade. These practical competencies will also be assessed in the external examinations.
- 8 GCSEs (or DfE recognised equivalent) grades 9-5 or A* - B, two of which must be English Language and Mathematics. - BTEC Level 2 at Distinction*, Distinction or Merit will be accepted - GCSE short courses cannot be accepted. - At least a 6 or grade B at GCSE in the subjects to be studied at AS/A-level, apart from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics which requires a 7 or grade A at GCSE. - Grade A or 7 or above in the Higher Tier is an entry requirement for Mathematics and/or Science AS/A level courses. Students who have taken Foundation Tier - GCSE courses in Mathematics and Sciences (rather than Higher Tier) are unlikely to have covered all the appropriate topics from which they can move on to A-level in the context of this school. - Students who wish to study Further Mathematics must achieve at Grade A* or 9-8 in GCSE Mathematics
Examination (100%)