You will study a variety of biological processes including the biology of the cell, biochemistry, genetics, human physiology, ecology and some plant physiology. An experimental approach to learning means you will develop your understanding through first-hand observations of your own work. The broad aim of the course is to encourage an enjoyment and appreciation of Biology and enable students to develop essential knowledge and understanding of the key concepts of Biology. The course also leads to an understanding of scientific methods and heightens awareness of advances in technology relevant to Biology. Current issues such as gene technology and biotechnology are studied enabling students to recognize the value and responsible use of Biology in society. The course content is enriched principally by a five-day, residential fieldwork trip in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park during the Autumn Term in Upper Sixth and by the Biology Olympiad competition which takes place during the Spring Term in Upper Sixth.
a minimum of five (I)GCSEs at grade 6 / B and 3 at grade 5 / C.
Three written examination papers are taken at the end of the two-year, linear course. 35% Topics 1-4 will be assessed on Paper 1: 1 Biological molecules; 2 Cells; 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment; 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Paper 1 is a 2-hour, 91-mark examination and is equivalent to 35% of the A Level. 35% Topics 5-8 will be assessed on Paper 2: 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms; 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments; 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems; 8 The control of gene expression. Paper 2 is a 2-hour, 91-mark examination and is equivalent to 35% of the A Level. 30% Paper 3 covers any content from topics 1-8, including relevant practical skills: Paper 3 is a 2-hour, 78-mark examination and is equivalent to 30% of the A Level. There is one essay question on Paper 3. As an integral part of the course, students must successfully complete twelve compulsory practical investigations. Their teachers will assess students’ ability to use practical apparatus and techniques as well as assessing them against Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC). There is no coursework. 10% of the overall assessment of A Level Biology will contain mathematical skills and at least 15% will assess knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to practical work.
About Education Provider
| Region | West Midlands |
| Local Authority | Staffordshire |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | Unknown |
| Sixth Form Fee | Unknown |
| Address | Mount Pleasant, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 1DB |
You will study a variety of biological processes including the biology of the cell, biochemistry, genetics, human physiology, ecology and some plant physiology. An experimental approach to learning means you will develop your understanding through first-hand observations of your own work. The broad aim of the course is to encourage an enjoyment and appreciation of Biology and enable students to develop essential knowledge and understanding of the key concepts of Biology. The course also leads to an understanding of scientific methods and heightens awareness of advances in technology relevant to Biology. Current issues such as gene technology and biotechnology are studied enabling students to recognize the value and responsible use of Biology in society. The course content is enriched principally by a five-day, residential fieldwork trip in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park during the Autumn Term in Upper Sixth and by the Biology Olympiad competition which takes place during the Spring Term in Upper Sixth.
a minimum of five (I)GCSEs at grade 6 / B and 3 at grade 5 / C.
Three written examination papers are taken at the end of the two-year, linear course. 35% Topics 1-4 will be assessed on Paper 1: 1 Biological molecules; 2 Cells; 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment; 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Paper 1 is a 2-hour, 91-mark examination and is equivalent to 35% of the A Level. 35% Topics 5-8 will be assessed on Paper 2: 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms; 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments; 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems; 8 The control of gene expression. Paper 2 is a 2-hour, 91-mark examination and is equivalent to 35% of the A Level. 30% Paper 3 covers any content from topics 1-8, including relevant practical skills: Paper 3 is a 2-hour, 78-mark examination and is equivalent to 30% of the A Level. There is one essay question on Paper 3. As an integral part of the course, students must successfully complete twelve compulsory practical investigations. Their teachers will assess students’ ability to use practical apparatus and techniques as well as assessing them against Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC). There is no coursework. 10% of the overall assessment of A Level Biology will contain mathematical skills and at least 15% will assess knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to practical work.