Biology

Course summary

Biology is the study of life and incorporates a wide variety of exciting subject areas, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems, from genetics to disease. The A Level course builds on knowledge, understanding and practical skills developed during GCSE Science. The course involves a mixture of scientific methods, problem solving, practical skills and socially relevant content. It also enables students to develop the essential skills of synoptic essay writing, which is an aspect of modern education highlighted as missing by the major universities. Year 12 • Biological molecules. • Cells. • Organisms exchange substances with their environment. • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Year 13 (A Level) • Energy transfers in and between organisms. • Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments. • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems. • The control of gene expression.