Biology
“The study of living organisms”
The Biology department aims to promote an interest and curiosity about the diversity and origins of the living world.
Biology teachers
-
Mr M. Scott – Head of Department
-
Dr C. Holland
-
Mr A. Aitken
-
Mrs G. Todd
-
Mr P. Clarke – technician.
Biology is an ideal choice for students with an interest and curiosity about the diversity and origins of the living world around them. It focuses on our interactions with the natural environment. The A-level Biology course aims to develop an in depth knowledge and understanding of the ways in which biological organisms function.
Biology at AS and A2 level builds upon the knowledge, understanding and skills developed during GCSE. A ‘B’ grade in Triple Award or a A/B in Double Award Science is required. Single Award Science or Applied Science is not a suitable basis for the study of Biology at Advanced level. It is also advisable that students have a pass grade in GCSE Mathematics.
KS3 curriculum
| Autumn Term | Green plants and their environment – the study of photosynthesis |
| Winter Term | Food and digestion – (including an investigation into the effect of temperature on the rate of digestion of milk protein by protease enzyme) |
| Summer Term | Cells, The Nucleus and Genes |
KS4 Curriculum
GCSE Biology is taught as a component of the Double Award specification and also as a separate science for those who want more in-depth understanding. GCSE classes are taught in mixed ability sets of approximately 20 pupils. An emphasis is placed on practical work which provides students with analytical, problem solving and project design skills. Such transferable skills can then be developed further in both higher education and the workplace.
Specification followed: CCEA www.ccea.org.uk
What will I study?
KS5 Curriculum
Specification followed: CCEA www.ccea.org.uk
Biology is a very popular A-level choice with approximately 60 students in Year 13 each year. Many of the students go on to read medical related subjects at university. Other students study Biology in order to keep their options open when applying for university courses as it is recognised as a strong academic subject across the board.
What will I Study?
| AS 1 | Molecules and Cells |
| AS 2 | Organisms and Biodiversity |
| AS 3 | Assessment of Practical Skills (Internal practical assessment – coursework) |
| A2 1 | Physiology and Ecosystems |
| A2 2 | Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends |
| A2 3 | Assessment of Investigative and Practical Skills (coursework) |
How will I be assessed?
| Unit | Assessment Format | Duration | Weightings | Availability |
| AS 1 | Written examination, externally assessed | 1 hour 30 minutes | 40% of AS 20% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
| AS 2 | Written examination, externally assessed | 1 hour 30 minutes | 40% of AS 20% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
| AS 3 | Internal practical assessment | N/A | 20% of AS 10% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
| A2 1 | Written examination, externally assessed | 2 Hours | 40% of A2 20% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
| A2 2 | Written examination, externally assessed | 2 Hours | 40% of A2 20% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
| A2 3 | Internal practical assessment | N/A | 40% of A2 20% of A Level |
Summer 2016 |
Extra-curricular
AS Biology students go to Carlingford Lough every year to carry out a field study using sampling techniques outlined in the A-level specification.
