Biology

EXAM BOARD: EDEXCEL BIOLOGY A (SALTERS – NUFFIELD)

Entry requirements:

Grade 7/7 in Double Science or grade 7 in GCSE Biology. Grade 7 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics.

Head of department:

Phil Price

This course has been designed to engage and inspire students by showing how an understanding of many contemporary issues requires a grasp of fundamental biological ideas.

The A level course in the first year of Sixth Form contains a well-balanced spread of topics including blood circulation and the heart, DNA and protein synthesis, enzymes, cell biology, evolution and biodiversity. Associated medical issues such as cardiovascular disease and cystic fibrosis are also explored. A level topics include forensic science, ecology, microorganisms, sport science, biochemistry, the nervous system and an introduction to how the brain works. The body’s response to infection is studied and the diseases which can result when the immune system fails to cope are investigated.

There is no coursework component within the course, however, students complete a series of core practicals that will be examined in their written exams. The Biology Department is well resourced with up-to- date equipment such as a polymerase chain reaction thermocycler and gel electrophoresis.

Year 1

• Topic 1: Lifestyle, Health and

Risk • Topic 2: Genes and Health • Topic 3: Voice of the Genome • Topic 4: Biodiversity and

Natural Resources

Year 2

• Topic 5: On the Wild Side • Topic 6: Immunity, Infection and Forensics. • Topic 7: Run for your Life • Topic 8: Grey Matter.

Assessment

Paper 1: The Natural Environment and

Species Survival. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)

Paper 2: Energy, Exercise and

Co-ordination. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)

Paper 3: General and Practical

Applications in Biology. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)