Biology

Course summary

The A Level Biology course carries students far beyond GCSE and introduces them to the exciting world of modern biology. The main topic areas covered include: Biological molecules: all life on Earth shares a common chemistry including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and water. Cells: all living organisms are made from cells. This unit looks at different types of cells and the membranes that surround them. Organisms exchange substances with their environment: how cells maintain an internal environment different to the external one. Genetic information: DNA, genes, gene expression and how differences between species are controlled by the DNA they contain. Energy transfers in and between organisms: life depends on the continuous transfer of energy and this unit looks at the processes of photosynthesis and respiration. Organisms respond to changes in the internal and external environments: how organisms detect and respond to the environment. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems. The control of gene expression: how genes are controlled and switched on and off and recombinant gene technology.