Course information
Biology
St John Henry Newman Catholic School - Cumberland
01228404942
Scalegate Road, Carlisle, CA2 4NL
Course summary

The Biology A Level we offer is the AQA Biology course. The course contains 8 modules; • Biological molecules • Cells • Organisms exchange substances with their environment • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms • Energy transfers in and between organisms (A Level only) • Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (A Level only) • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A Level only) • The control of gene expression (A Level only) These topics allow Pupils to fully broaden their knowledge of traditional Biology (e.g. Cells and Biological Molecules) along with the new and exciting developments in the subject (e.g. The control of gene expression).

Entry requirements

In order to start the course, pupils must have gained at least a 6 in dual award but preferably Biology GCSE along with a 6 in Maths and a 6 in English.

How you'll be assessed

The A Level is assessed through three, 2 hour exams at the end of Year 13. Paper one and two are a mixture of short and long answer questions (each contributing to 35% of the A Level), paper three consists of structured questions, including practical techniques, critical analysis of practical techniques and a written essay from a choice of two titles (contributing the final 30%). Practical skills are assessed through recommended practicals completed throughout the duration of the course, Pupils then gain either a pass or fail for their practical skills. There is no longer a traditional coursework unit contributing to the AS or A2.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionNorth West
Local AuthorityCumberland
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressScalegate Road, Carlisle, CA2 4NL