Biology

Course summary

Building on the knowledge and skills developed at GCSE, students study in greater depth the Biology of the major human and plant body systems. They cover the science behind DNA and advances in DNA technology that make up much of the scientific news. Ecology, the study of plants and animals in their environment, is covered in greater detail, including the opportunity to undertake fieldwork. A strong emphasis is placed on developing a student’s practical skills, with practical work being seen as an essential part of the course. Lower Sixth topics: • Biological molecules • Cell structure and function • Movement in and out of cells • The immune system • The digestive system and enzymes • The circulatory system • Gas exchange in humans and other animals • Transport in plants • The structure and function of DNA and genetic diversity • Taxonomy Upper Sixth Topics • The biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis • Energy and nutrient transfer in ecosystems • The nervous system • The functioning of muscles Homoeostasis • Genetics and the control of gene expression • Evolution and speciation DNA technology • Populations and ecosystems