Length of Course

AS level Biology: 1 year           
A level Biology: AS plus (2nd year) A2 i.e. 2 years.

Examination Board

OCR

Assessment Method and Component Percentages

AS level: three written examinations, normally taken in June, and internally-assessed coursework comprising 20% of the total mark.
A level: an additional three written examinations, normally taken in June (2nd year) and internally assessed comprising 20% of the total mark for A2.

Entry Requirements

Students who have struggled to achieve a CC grade in Science at GCSE are likely to find work at this level very difficult.  It is therefore recommended that new candidates should have at least a CC grade in Science at GCSE.

What You Will Learn

Knowledge and understanding of biological concepts.  An understanding of scientific methods.  The value and responsible use of biology in society.   Experimental and investigative skills.  Social, economic, environmental, ethical, medical and technological aspects of biology.

How to select, organise and present relevant information.  How to plan and organise your study.  How to present arguments and ideas clearly and logically.

How You Will Learn

Through experimental and investigative work (including fieldwork); through lectures and seminars; through individual guided research and study; through continual recall and analysis of your knowledge

Subject Expectations

A genuine interest in biology and serious commitment to high personal achievement in the subject.  Close to 100% attendance to timetabled lessons.  Prompt completion of all the assignments, including those required as part of private study.  A willingness to question and discuss.

Career Opportunities

Numerous - the most obvious being in medicine, agriculture, horticulture, microbiology, pharmacology, environmental health, conservation...

Allied Subjects

AS and A level Chemistry, Physics and Geography.

Key Skills

This subject offers opportunities for students to develop the nationally specified Key Skills.  The development of student Key Skills enrich their programme of study.  It will also allow them to gain acknowledged qualifications that is valued by employers and providers of higher education.  The main key skills, communication, Information Technology and application of numbers are available at Level 1,2 or 3.

Staff Contact

If you would like further details please see Mr M Collins, Head of Upper School Science.