Biology
Woodbridge School - Suffolk
01394615000
Burkitt Road, Woodbridge, IP12 4JH
Course summary

Biology provides the opportunity for students not only to study but to understand and link their learning to everyday life; topics covered range from the examination of microscopic organisms to entire ecosystems, from genetics, cells and their components to the exploration of evolution and natural selection. Biology encompasses the study of life itself – exploring theories and principles of living organisms and their systems. Studying biology provides experiences that arouse students’ curiosity through exploration and understanding of a genuinely interesting and exciting course. Understanding societies decisions regarding scientific issues and how the scientific community contributes to the success of the economy and society itself are covered. Arising from recent developments in genetic engineering and disease prevention, students will have the opportunity to understand theories and discover the true impact of biology. Students will be inspired, nurtured and encouraged to question the world they live in. By providing a solid grounding for analytical thinking, report writing and clear communication, biology presents substantial opportunity that underpins theoretical study, develops teamwork and applies practical skills.

Entry requirements

Students will need grade 7 or above in biology GCSE or a grade 7 or above in co-ordinated science. The A level course is delivered by two experienced teachers, offering students specialist knowledge with variety in teaching styles. Throughout the course students will have access to the very latest resources including new exam board approved textbooks, microscopes, centrifuges, PCR and gel electrophoresis equipment. Practical work is an integral part of the course as biology is fundamentally an experimental subject. Students attain many practical skills, assessed as part of their overall progression; these practical experiments enable students to better understand the theory.

How you'll be assessed

Paper 1: » 2 hours » 35% of A level » Any content from topics 1– 4 including relevant practical skills » Biological molecules » Cells » Organisms exchange substances with their environment » Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms » 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions » 15 marks: extended response questions Paper 2: » 2 hours » 35% of A level » Any content from topics 5–8, including relevant practical skills » Energy transfers in and between organisms » Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments » Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems » The control of gene expression » 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions » 15 marks: comprehension question Paper 3: » 2 hours » 30% of A level » Any content from topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills » 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 » The control of gene expression » 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

RegionEast of England
Local AuthoritySuffolk
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£29,514 - £38,490
Sixth Form FeeDay £18,975 - £20,538
AddressBurkitt Road, Woodbridge, IP12 4JH