Biology
Magdalen College School - Oxfordshire
01865242191
Cowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DZ
Course summary

Biology is the study of life and living organisms, and is for those that have a fascination in how living things work.. This ranges from the biochemistry of a single cell to the functioning of whole organ systems, and from the structure and characteristics of unicellular organisms to the complexity of a whole ecosystem. A-level Biology encompasses all these aspects, as well as the many and varied links between them. It is a subject that develops a wide variety of skills, including numerate and analytical approaches. You will develop your ability to solve problems, as well as discussing and explaining scientific concepts in detail. In addition, it will prepare you for a range of courses in the biological sciences, including Medicine, and the academic rigour of the course, as well as the skills it develops, make it useful preparation for a wide range of further undergraduate disciplines.

Entry requirements

Our offers of places into Year 12 are conditional upon a candidate achieving a minimum of six 8s or 9s at GCSE, including Grades 8 or 9 in the subjects proposed for study at A Level.

How you'll be assessed

The course is assessed in three written papers sat in Trinity term of Upper Sixth, and a Practical Endorsement that is assessed throughout the course and reported separately from the final A-level grade. The written papers are: Biological Processes: 37% of A-Level; 2 hours 15 minutes Biological Diversity: 37% of A-Level; 2 hours 15 minutes Unified Biology: 26% of A-Level; 1 hour 30 minutes All papers include synoptic assessment and questions relating to practical skills. All essential preparation materials, including the ‘Head Start to A-level Biology’ guide will be given to pupils at induction.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityOxfordshire
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form Fee£20,976 - £21,777
AddressCowley Place, Oxford, OX4 1DZ