Biology
WHY SHOULD I STUDY A LEVEL BIOLOGY?
Biology has an important place in the contemporary world. It is a dynamic subject that embraces the other sciences and links with them in a meaningful way. Above all, it is a very stimulating and exciting subject that will provide you with an in-depth understanding of human biology, health and disease, evolution, ecology, plant biology, genetics and gene technology.
Students studying A Level Biology attend a field course to study ecology in Slapton Sands, various practical workshop at the University of Bristol and a zoo trip to look at classification, biodiversity and conservation.
WHAT WILL I LEARN ABOUT?
You will explore life from its simplest form, the cell, to complex multi-cellular organisms. You will study biochemistry and the important role that proteins play in our bodies, learning how nerves and hormones control our body’s complex systems. You will investigate DNA, the very molecule of life itself, and how genetics may hold the key to future medical advances.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
- A ‘Science Practical Endorsement’ will be used to assess your practical skills, but this assessment will not count towards your final grade.
- There are three A Level exams: Papers 1 and 2 are worth 35% each; Paper 3 is worth 30% of the overall A Level grade.
WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?
Biology is an experimental subject, therefore you will explore it through practical investigation. Utilising our well-equipped laboratories, you will develop key skills such as experimental analysis, data collection, mathematical analysis, developing an hypothesis and evaluating the success of a project. You will be encouraged to research topics beyond the classroom, to work independently and to develop an understanding of how science works.
WHERE COULD THIS SUBJECT TAKE ME IN THE FUTURE?
The key skills mean that a wide range of university courses would be accessible including degrees in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary and Natural Sciences, as well as Biological Sciences, Chiropractic and Biochemistry.
Exam Board: AQA | Course Code: 7402
