Biology

Biology literally means 'the study of life'. It is such a vast subject, covering from the workings of microscopic cells and their molecular components, to the interactions of several ecosystems in the world's many biomes.

Biologists have asked many questions and have been able to solve many problems. There are many more questions that remain to be asked and answered.

In recent years, the human genome (sequence of bases in DNA) has been deciphered, DNA profiling has allowed murder and rape cases to be solved, the health risks or benefits of some of our favourite food have been identified, the use of herbal remedies has been developed and the cure for certain diseases has been found.

Biological knowledge is increasing at an unprecedented rate. We do not hope to teach you all the answers. We do not expect you to remember, five years from now, every fact you had to learn. We hope you will be interested enough to go on to further studies in the field of Biology and related sciences. And, if not, we hope to have helped you to critically evaluate the information you are faced with in the media.

Come and study Biology with us!

Key Stage 3 Biology

In years 7 and 8, we contribute to an integrated science course, which is taught in forms and it is allocated four lessons per week. As from September 2008 we are phasing out the Spectrum Science course and launching the Nelson Thornes Fusion course.

The Fusion course has been written specifically to embrace the principles of the new 2008 KS3 science curriculum and enables us to teach the KS3 curriculum in two years with the aim that pupils complete their SATs examinations in year 8 so that we can begin the teaching of GCSE in year 9.

Also, this course is designed to increase focus on personalised learning, introduce a more practical approach to science through 'How Science Works' and overall making learning motivating, engaging and fun!

In year 9 subject specialists carry out all science teaching. They will study Biology two lessons per week. Pupils are taught as forms. The current year 9 pupils will sit the external SATs examinations, followed by an introduction to the GCSE course in the summer term.

Key Stage 4 Biology

Students follow the AQA Biology (4411) specification. Approximately 80% of students in KS4 take GCSE Biology along with one other science. Groups are taught by subject specialists. Both Higher Tier (giving access to grades A*- C) and Foundation Tier (C-G) examination papers are available from the AQA website. Candidates are entered for the papers which best suit their ability- this decision is made by the head of department following each trial examination. In practice, the majority sit Higher tier papers.

The programme of study is designed around the Nelson Thorne's text books and places an emphasis on understanding biological concepts, developing practical and investigating 'How Science Works'.

A Level Biology

Biology literally means 'the study of life'. It is such a vast subject, covering from the workings of microscopic cells and their molecular components, to the interactions of several ecosystems in the world's many biomes. In recent years, the human genome (sequence of bases in DNA) has been deciphered, DNA profiling has allowed murder and rape cases to be solved, the health risks or benefits of some of our favorite food have been identified, the use of herbal remedies has been developed and the cure for certain diseases has been found.

All examinations in AS and A2 comprise a mixture of; short answer questions, longer questions involving: comprehension, data handling and How Science Works.

AS level AQA (1411)

Unit 1: Biology and Disease (BIOL 1) (Examination- 1 ¼ hrs worth 33.33% AS)

In this unit you will study the digestive, gas exchange and blood systems of mammals. To understand the physiology behind these systems you will also cover the basic principles of enzyme action and the mechanisms used to transport substances across membranes i.e. diffusion, osmosis and active transport. You will also learn how the body defends itself from common diseases such as cholera.

Unit 2: The variety of living organisms (BIOL 2) (Examination- 1 ¼ hrs worth 46.67% AS)

In this unit you will study the structure of DNA and genetic diversity. You will learn how factors such as size and metabolic rate affect organisms and how this gives rise to adaptations such as specialised gas exchange surfaces and mass transport systems.

Unit 3: The centre assessed unit (BIOL 3) (Examination- Worth 20% AS)

The main skills involve being able to: Plan, Collect Data, Analyse and evaluate.

A2 level AQA (2411)

Unit 4: Populations and the environment (BIOL 4) (Examination- 1 hour 30 min worth 16.7% A2)

This unit explains how populations can be affected and how energy is made and transferred between organisms. The biochemistry of photosynthesis and respiration are studied.

Unit 5: Control in cells and in organisms (BIOL 5) (Examination- 2 hours 15 min worth 23.3% A2)

Homeostasis is coordinated by detecting stimuli and stimulating appropriate responses. Animals increase their chances of survival by avoiding harmful environments. Therefore, an in depth study of the nervous system and muscle contraction will also take place.

Unit 6: A2 centre assessed unit (BIOL 6) (Examination- Worth 10%)

As with AS the main skills involve being able to: Plan, Collect Data, Analyse and evaluate.

Future Opportunities

Biology is a rapidly growing and exciting science. With the discovery of new and improved biochemical techniques such as electron microscopy, biotechnology, DNA sequencing and genetic engineering, new opportunities are opening all the time. Biology qualifications can lead on to a huge variety of different careers from Neurosurgery, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Medicine to Forestry, Environmental Studies, Food Science, Sport Science, Horticulture and Laboratory work.

http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/science/biology_materials.php?id=03&prev

Practical skills verification- skills assessments done in lessons

Externally Marked Practical Assignment- Practical assignments done in lessons time over 3-4 lessons under examination conditions. Worth 10% of the total A Level marks

Teaching & Learning Methods

A mixture of note taking, practical work and problem solving will be used. Powerpoint presentations and videos are also included when relevant. Topic tests are a regular feature of the course as well as homework assignments geared to enhance understanding.

Independent research activities involving the internet are included at both AS and A2. A new development is the introduction of the "Kerboodle" by Nelson Thorne. Students can now access teaching and learning materials via the internet and study at home as well as in school.

What makes a good Biology student?

The ability to enjoy the subject! You need to demonstrate the ability to learn a lot of facts and apply them to different situations. Grade B is needed in GCSE Biology.

Which other courses link well with this subject?

The best ones to consider are Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Geography. If you are thinking of studying any Biology related subject at university (including Medicine) you are advised to take Chemistry as well.

Future Opportunities

Biology is a rapidly growing and exciting science. With the discovery of new and improved biochemical techniques such as electron microscopy, biotechnology, DNA sequencing and genetic engineering, new opportunities are opening all the time. Biology qualifications can lead on to a huge variety of different careers from Neurosurgery, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Medicine to Forestry, Environmental Studies, Food Science, Sport Science, Horticulture and Laboratory work.

IB Biology

The Nature of the Subject

Biologists have accumulated a huge volume of information about living organisms and it would be easy to confuse students by teaching large numbers of seemingly unrelated facts. In the IB Diploma Programme Biology, it is hoped that students will acquire a limited body of facts and at the same time develop a broad, general understanding of the principles of the subject.

The Diploma Programme Biology course considers four key biological concepts:

Structure and Function - one of the most important relationships in the study of biology, operating at all levels of complexity

Universality versus Diversity - species exists in a range of habitats and show adaptations that relate structure to function; a diverse range of organisms are connected and interdependent

Equilibrium within Systems - checks and balances exist both within living organisms and within ecosystems. The state of dynamic equilibrium is essential for the continuity of life

Evolution - the concept of evolution draws together the other themes

These four concepts serve as themes which unify the various topics that make up the three sections of the course: the core, the additional higher level material and the options.

New Resources:

Click on the links below to open study guides.

IB Biology Study Guide

IB Study Guide Answers

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