Biology

Course summary

We believe that A-level biology is a fascinating subject as it allows you to learn more about the natural world and all living things – including your organs and cells. Biology is relevant to everyone as in one way or another it will affect every person on Earth. A level of biology provides answers to many interesting questions such as: • How are genetic diseases passed between generations? • How can we edit the DNA of living things? • How do bacteria become resistant to antibiotics? • What causes cancer? How can it be treated? • How can vaccination protect us from disease? • How does the brain control heart rate? By studying A-level Biology, you could go on to help solve many of the challenges that are being faced in today’s world such as climate change, emerging diseases and antibiotic resistance. As well as learning lots of interesting biology content, you will also learn a range of subject-specific skills such as good laboratory practice and statistical skills. Furthermore, you will learn a range of transferable skills including problem-solving, data analysis, research and independent study skills. Biology is a subject that can open up a variety of options in the future as it gives you the option to specialise in a variety of different areas of interest. Year 1 Biological molecules, cells, how organisms exchange substances with their environment genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Year 2 Energy transfers in and between organisms, how organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems and the control of gene expression.