Biology
The Bourne Academy - Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
01202528554
Hadow Road, Bournemouth, BH10 5HS
Course summary

Biology stimulates students from the start by conveying the core themes of life processes on our planet, the discoveries of Biologists, and the way in which Biology affects all of our lives. A large part of the course is focused on practical skills and includes new equipment which students won’t have encountered before. Core content: • Biological molecules • Cells • Organisms exchange substances with their environment • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms • Energy transfers in and between organisms • Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A-level only) • Control of Gene Expression (A-Level only).

Entry requirements

Five or more 9-4 grades at GCSE including English and Maths. A grade 6 or higher in Biology or in Combined Science at GCSE (6-5 at Combined is acceptable). A grade 5 or higher in English Language and Maths is essential. Exceptional students with Grade 5-5 in Combined Science or a Grade 5 in Triple Biology may also join the A-Level course on the condition that they also attain a Grade 6 in English Language or Literature.

How you'll be assessed

Paper 1 • Any content from topics 1– 4, including relevant practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 91 marks • 35% of A-level • 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions • 15 marks: extended response questions. Paper 2 • Any content from topics 5 – 8, including relevant practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 91 marks • 35% of A-level • 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions • 15 marks: comprehension question. Paper 3 • Any content from topics 1– 8, including relevant practical skills • Written exam: 2 hours • 78 marks • 30% of A-level • 38 marks: structured questions, including practical techniques • 15 marks: critical analysis of given experimental data • 25 marks: one essay from a choice of two titles.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth West
Local AuthorityBournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressHadow Road, Bournemouth, BH10 5HS