Biology

Course summary

Biology is the science of life. Within the two-year course, pupils will study several key biological concepts allowing them to make sense of the world around them. Following modern research methods, pupils will develop a deep understanding of the scientific method. During year 12 pupils will study biological molecules introducing fundamental biochemistry; then moving on to cells where pupils build on their knowledge of cell structure, cell division, and the mechanisms behind the immune system. Following this pupils explore how organisms exchange substances with their environment investigating several key taxonomic groups and finally, pupils explore genetic information, variation, and the relationships between organisms. Year 13 is designed to further advance pupils' understanding of biology and begins with studying how energy can be transferred in and between organisms. Pupils are also given opportunities to explore how organisms respond to changes in their external and internal environments and the mechanisms behind genetics, populations, evolution, and ecosystems. Finally, pupils discover some of the most recent and exciting developments in biology including the control of gene expression.