What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this
course?
It is desirable to have taken GCSE Science at Higher level, but not essential.
It is important that you are interested in Biology and that you are keen to
explore this subject in greater detail welcoming the challenge of practical
investigative work.
During parts of the course students will be expected to handle and interpret
data, it would be helpful for students to have achieved at least Grade C in GCSE
Mathematics.
What will I learn on this course?
Develop greater understanding of biological facts together with an appreciation
of their significance in new and changing situations
Develop greater expertise in the area of practical work and the link between
theory and experimental work
Continue to enjoy and further develop a personal interest in the study of living
organisms
The recognition of the responsible use of biology in society
Develop further the awareness of developments in biology in the changing world
into the new millennium.
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
This course is suitable for students who:
have an interest in the study of living organisms
enjoy carrying out investigations in the laboratory or as fieldwork
interested in the developments of new biology topics such as genetic engineering
and the impact on society.
What could I go on to do at the end of my course?
This AS/A level can lead to further study of a broad range of Natural and Earth
Science courses. When combined with the Chemistry AS/A level, it can lead to
entry to medical and related courses. It is also a useful qualification when
considering entry into non-science subjects at a post-18 level.
Year 12 (AS course)
Unit 1: Biology Foundation (AS 30%, A 15%)
This module is intended to act as a foundation unit for the A/S Biology
specification. In particular it provides:
an understanding of some fundamental concepts, techniques and procedures in
biology;
an opportunity for the student to become familiar with controlling variables and
using the light microscope
an understanding of nutrient cycling within ecosystems.
Unit 2: Human Health and Disease (AS 30%, A 15%)
This module is intended to develop:
an understanding of what is meant by health and disease;
an appreciation of disease in a global context and the factors that affect
patterns of disease globally;
an understanding of the principles upon which preventative medicine is based,
and of the
an appreciation of the role and implications of medical technology in the
context of limited resources;
an understanding of how our bodies attempt to maintain good health;
a positive attitude and approach to health as being more than simply the absence
of disease
Unit 3A: Transport (AS 20%, A 10%)
This module is intended to develop an understanding of the transport mechanisms
in mammals and flowering plants, including the following:
the need for a transport system in multicellular animals;
transport in mammals
the structure and functioning of the mammalian heart.
the need for, and functioning of, a transport system in multicellular plants.
Unit 3B: Experimental skills (coursework) (AS 20%, A 10%)
The skills will be assessed through separate practical exercises related to the
content of units A - C1, and marked along similar lines to GCSE coursework.