Biology
George Dixon Academy - Birmingham
01215666565
Portland Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 9GD
Course summary

Studying A-level biology at George Dixon Academy will enable you to develop: • An enthusiasm for biology and an understanding of how organisms work and interact with the environment around them • Practical skills alongside an understanding of biological concepts and principles • An appropriate and relevant foundation of knowledge that can be used as a stepping stone to the future study of biology in higher education and skills that lay the groundwork for careers in science or the healthcare field The subject content consists of the following units: • Unit 1: Biological molecules • Unit 2: Cells • Unit 3: Organisms exchange substances with their environment • Unit 4: Genetic information, variation & relationships between organisms • Unit 5: Energy transfers in and between organisms • Unit 6: Organisms respond to changes in their internal & external environments • Unit 7: Genetics, populations, evolution & ecosystems • Unit 8: The control of gene expression Year 12 biology students will study: • Units 1 - 4 Year 13 biology students will study: • Units 5 - 8 Biology is a great choice of subject for people who want a career in health and clinical professions, such as: • Medicine • Dentistry • Veterinary science • Physiotherapy • Pharmacy • Optometry • Nursing • Zoology • Marine biology • Forensic science

Entry requirements

Students must have achieved at least a grade 6 in GCSE biology or GCSE Combined Science

How you'll be assessed

A-level biology is a stand-alone (2 year) course and consists of 3 examinations and a portfolio of practical work. The practical work will contribute to a certificate of competency. Paper 1: • Units 1 - 4 & practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 91 marks (35% of A-level) o 76 marks of a mixture of short and long answer questions o 15 marks of extended response questions Paper 2: • Unit 5 – 8 & practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 91 marks (35% of A-level) o 76 marks of a mixture of short & long answer questions o 15 marks of comprehension questions Paper 3: • Unit 1 – 8 & practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 78 marks (30% of A-level) o 38 marks of structured questions, including practical techniques o 15 marks of critical analysis of given experimental data o 25 marks consisting of one synoptic essay from a choice of two titles

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionWest Midlands
Local AuthorityBirmingham
Ofsted RatingRequires improvement
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressPortland Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 9GD