Biology

Course summary

The best reason to study Biology is that it fascinates you. At A level you get to study a wide range of material in more depth, helping you to begin to gain a deeper insight into concepts you learned at GCSE and a wider appreciation of how your bodies and the world around you work. Another good reason to study Biology is that doing so supports your university or career aspirations, whether this is for Medicine, Natural Sciences, or one of the many other Biology and biology-related careers and courses. A third reason to take Biology A level is that studying biology helps to develop a wide range of transferrable skills, from research and analytical work to group work and presentation skills. Practical work is integral to the course and Module 1: Development of Practical Skills in Biology, will be taught throughout both years. There are five theory modules in A-level Biology. In the Foundations in Biology module (Module 2) you will study cells and their membranes, biological molecules, nucleic acids (e.g. DNA) and enzymes. During the Exchange and Transport module (Module 3) you will look at gas exchange in mammals, insects and fish, and transport systems in animals and plants. In Module 4 you will study diseases, disease prevention and the immune system. You will also look at classification, variation and evolution. During Module 5 you will study the processes of photosynthesis and respiration. You will also study physiology looking at homeostasis, excretion, the nervous system, hormones and muscles. Module 6 includes inheritance, cellular control, cloning and biotechnology. In this module, you will also study populations and consider the issues of sustainability.