Biology

Assessment

This is a two-year course that contains 10 topics: Topic 1: Biological Molecules Topic 2: Cells, Viruses, and Reproduction of Living Things Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity Topic 4: Exchange and Transport Topic 5: Energy for Biological Processes Topic 6: Microbiology and Pathogens Topic 7: Modern Genetics Topic 8: Origins of Genetic Variation Topic 9: Control Systems Topic 10: Ecosystems Students are expected to carry out 16 core practical experiments. The specification consists of three externally examined papers and the Science Practical Endorsement. Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics (30% of the total qualification) Assessment is 1 hour 45 minutes The paper will include multi-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology (30% of the total qualification) Assessment is 1 hour 45 minutes The paper will include multi-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology (40% of the total qualification) Assessment is 2 hours 30 minutes The paper will include multi-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions. It will also include synoptic questions.