Biology

Course summary

Biology is a rapidly expanding science. It forms the basis of new and exciting fields of study, such as Biotechnology, Genetics and Ecology. Studying A level Biology will enable a student to follow one of these courses at university. Pupils wishing to study Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science may also take Biology as one of their A level choices. Throughout the Sixth Form pupils are taught by two teachers and theory work is backed up with relevant practical activities in all topics. Pupils learn to use more sophisticated equipment and techniques and continue to develop their understanding of effective practical design, precise and accurate data collection and thorough analysis and evaluation of techniques and evidence. Practical work has recently included the extraction of the pupils own DNA which can then be preserved as a necklace, the genetic modification of bacteria to incorporate glowing jelly fish genes and the technique of Genetic Fingerprinting using Gel Electrophoresis for the separation of DNA fragments. A newly purchased thermocycler is also allowing us to amplify small samples of DNA using the Polymerase Chain Reaction, an important technique used both in genetic engineering, medicine and forensic science.