Biology

Course summary

The aim of our course is for you to build on your interest and enthusiasm for Biology, which can lead to further study at university and numerous careers. You learn by research, group work and practical activities, alongside traditional classroom methods. You are encouraged to read widely and to subscribe to the Biological Sciences Review Magazine, written specifically for Sixth Form students. The OCR specification provides an indepth and detailed view of the complex biological world. It is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts in Biology. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and assessed within the final exams as well as part of a separate ‘practical endorsement’. In addition to learning the wide variety of topics included in the specification, you acquire the skills to be independent learners, design experiments, analyse data, research theories and write up and reference correctly. At the end of the course, you have a comprehensive overview of the topics and how they link together. The Biology A Level is split into six modules: – Development of practical skills – Foundations in Biology – Exchange and transport – Biodiversity, evolution and energy – Communication, homeostasis and disease – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Highlights Year 12 Ecology field course (optional). Support and guidance in external competitions; Years 12 and 13 Biology Olympiads. Primary school liaison opportunities.