GCSE

Biology stimulates and excites pupils’ curiosity and interest in the living world. Through their work, pupils are helped to understand major biological ideas and to appreciate how these contribute to technological and cultural change.

Biology offers a range of activities which engage pupils by linking practical experience with ideas, developing key skills and encouraging critical and creative thought.

Studying Biology enables pupils to understand the role of experimental evidence and models in evaluating explanations of scientific data. Pupils learn how Biotechnology has been used in industry, business and medicine, and how these developments have contributed greatly to our quality of life. In Biology, pupils engage in questioning and discussion about issues which affect their lives and the world in which they live.

The subject comprises the following topics

  • Plant and Animal Reproduction
  • Genetics and Selection
  • Sensitivity and Response
  • Classification
  • Ecology
  • Microbiology

Coursework

GCSE Biology students’ coursework is carried out as part of normal class routine and is an integral part of the scheme of work. It is set and assessed by the teacher under following skill areas:

  • planning experimental procedures
  • obtaining evidence
  • interpreting and evaluating

Coursework accounts for 25 percent of the students’ final marks.

Click on this link to download the GCSE  specification

GCE

We also offer the AQA GCE Revised Biology syllabus. This specification encourages students to:

  • develop their interest in and enthusiasm for Biology (including an interest in further study and/or Biology-related careers)
  • appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how Biology contributes to the success of the economy and society
  • develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of how Biological Science works
  • develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Biology and how they relate to each other

GCE Biology has two levels: AS and A2. AS can be taken as a ‘stand-alone’ qualification without progression to A2. However, to obtain the Advanced GCE qualification both AS and A2 must be completed.

The specification has a modular structure and students are required to the study three modules listed below.

AS

Unit 1 Biology and disease

Unit 2 The variety of living organisms

Unit 3 Investigative and practical skills

A2

Unit 4 Populations and the environment

Unit 5 Control in cells and organisms

Unit 6 Investigative and practical skills

Click on this link to download the AS/A2 specification: