Biology

Course summary

Biology involves the study of a wide range of fascinating topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems. Biology is never far from the headlines and is at the cutting edge of modern scientific developments. The OCR A Level Biology course is designed to encourage candidates to develop enthusiasm for Biology, whilst learning and improving practical skills which can be backed up with scientific understanding and problem solving. Course content In the first year of the A Level you will discover more about the structure of cells, which are the basic units of all living things, seeing how they communicate and form co-operated, integrated systems within living bodies. You will look at the important biological molecules and study their vital roles in living organisms, including how these can be used for beneficial use in living organisms or could possibly cause disease. In the second year modules you will consider how organisms influence the environments they live in, how waste products are removed and will study in depth the biochemical processes of photosynthesis, respiration and excretion. You will start a journey into genetics by exploring how genes work, the processes involved in genetic engineering and how this relates to medicine, ecosystems and conservation. You will also learn about how nerves carry signals throughout the body and how they form the intricate complexity of the human nervous system. There is an expectation that the time given to lessons each week will be matched by students outside of school as time to undertake study and homework.