Biology

Course summary

This course is for students who want to continue studying biology after GCSE. You'll already be familiar with some of the topics but the A level will give you the chance to study these and some new ones, in much greater depth. You might be choosing biology because you're headed for a healthcare or scientific career, though it will give you a set of skills that can be used in a wide range of non-scientific careers too. This course links well with most other A level subjects but particularly with those such as Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography and Psychology. You'll develop your skills as a scientist, learning to use practical apparatus and following experimental techniques. You'll be doing research, analysis, recording and interpreting experimental results and producing scientific drawings. Your maths and ICT skills will be employed along the way. You'll explore the applications of scientific principles and their relevance to daily life including in health, industry and sustainability. You'll cover a range of topics including: Biology practical skills. Foundations in biology. Exchange and transport. Biodiversity, evolution and disease. Communication, homeostasis and energy. Genetics, evolution and ecosystems. Through formal teaching in the classroom and laboratory, individual and group project work, field trips, practical work, discussions and debates. You'll use practical skills to design and conduct experiments using a range of methods and equipment. You will be expected to undertake private study including research, revision and homework tasks. Therell be careers visits and talks from professionals using their biology skills in the workplace and higher education biology experts.