About the course:
This subject is offered as an A Level course. If you are interested in how the body functions, genes and genetics, disease, nature and the environment – if you can absorb facts, sort and synthesise a lot of information, as well as explain things fully – if you want to continue to study Biology at University level – then Biology A Level is for you.
At SJP, Biology is taught in a modular course that is practical, modern and relevant to society today. We work with individuals to find suitable career paths and work placements, where necessary, to motivate students and support them in gaining a place at the university of their choice.
Assessment:
As with Physics and Chemistry, Biology is taught as a modular course that is assessed by examinations in January and June. There is also a practical assessment which is marked internally, providing 10% of the final grade for both AS and A2 awards.
AS
Unit 1 – Biology and Disease
Examination - 1 hour 15 minutes
16.75% of the overall A Level marks
Unit 2 – The Variety of Living Organisms
Examination paper - 1 hour 45 minutes
23.3% of the overall A Level marks
Unit 3 – Internal Assessment – Investigative & Practical Skills in AS Biology
Practical Skills Assessment
Investigative Skills Assignment
10% of overall A Level marks
A2
Unit 4 – Populations and Environment
Examination - 1 hour 30 minutes
16.7 % of the overall A Level Marks
Unit 5 – Control in cells and organisms
Examination paper - 2 hours 15 minutes
23.3% of the overall A Level marks
Unit 6 – Internal assessment– Investigative & Practical Skills in A2 Biology
Practical Skills Assessment
Investigative Skills Assignment
10% of the overall A Level marks
Is there anything else I need to know:
This course would be suited to students who have followed the Core Science and Additional Science Course in Years 10 & 11 and have achieved a Grade C or above.
Progression Routes:
Biology is a good choice for students looking to progress into careers as health, research and clinical professionals in areas including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, pharmacy, education, optometry, nursing, zoology or marine biology.