Biology A level

For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

A level OCR H420

https://youtu.be/mTltCXuEdbs
This course aims to develop your interest and enthusiasm for biology, helping you develop an understanding of the systems of your body, the complexities of plants and contemporary issues such as genetic modification. You will hone your analytical and investigative skills through hands on science whilst studying a subject that is both challenging and stimulating.

Course details:

Content is in six modules, each divided into key topics:

Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology

• Practical skills assessed in a written examination
• Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Module 2: Foundations in biology

• Cell structure
• Biological molecules
• Nucleotides and nucleic acids
• Enzymes
• Biological membranes
• Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation

Module 3: Exchange and transport

• Exchange surfaces
• Transport in animals
• Transport in plants
• Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease
• Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system
• Biodiversity
• Classification and evolution

Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy

• Communication and homeostasis
• Excretion as an example of homeostatic control
• Neuronal communication
• Hormonal communication
• Plant and animal responses
• Photosynthesis
• Respiration

Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

• Cellular control
• Patterns of inheritance
• Manipulating genomes
• Cloning and biotechnology
• Ecosystems
• Populations and sustainability

Students gain practical skills throughout the course. These are assessed in the written examinations and in the practical endorsement.

To complete an A Level in this subject it is necessary to achieve a Grade 5 at GCSE in a similar type of subject, although we strongly advise that students should be looking at achieving at least a Grade 6 at GCSE in a similar type of subject to have a secure platform for entry on to the course.

A level Biology opens the doors to a diverse range of higher degree courses such as Biochemistry, Genetics, Cell biology, Medicine, Nursing, Environmental Science, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Radiography. Biology can also be taken as a joint degree with subjects like Psychology and Education. If higher education is not for you thenA level Biology provides a stepping stone to vocation training, for example, hospital laboratory technician, dental nurse and pharmacy dispenser.