A Level Biology

Biology A Level will give you the skills to make connections and associations with all living things around you. Extra reading around the subject is highly recommended; New Scientist or Biological Sciences Review magazine are some suggestions. Biology builds upon subject content studied at GCSE Level, and students will need to be able to communicate effectively and work independently to achieve the highest grades in this subject. Being such a broad topic, you’re bound to find a specific area of interest, plus it opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting pathways.

Topics studied during A Level Biology include: 1. Biological molecules 2. Cells 3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment

4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms 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

A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A Level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of your competency in a range of skills.

At least 15% of the marks for A Level Biology are based on what you learned in your practical's.

In paper 3 you will be asked to write one essay from a choice of two titles worth 25 marks.

To join BG6, you must achieve five or more GCSE grades 4 or above. These must include a minimum GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature and Mathematics and also meet the specific subject entry requirements for courses you are interested in.

SPECIFIC SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS:

GCSE Grade 6 in Biology plus one other Science, alternatively GCSE Grade 6,6 in Combined Science, plus GCSE Grade 5 in English Language and GCSE Grade 5 in Mathematics

During the course you will also have learning opportunities outside the classroom such as a residential field trip and Zoo visit. The practical's will also ensure that if you choose to study a Biology-based subject at university, you’ll have the skills needed to carry out successful experiments in your degree.

Possible degree options include;

• Biology

• Psychology •

Sport and exercise science

•Medicine / Dentistry

• Anatomy

• Physiology

• Radiography

• Biomedical Sciences