GCE A LEVEL BIOLOGY

EDEXCEL SPECIFICATION AS AND A2 LEVELS 2008

New biological discoveries are made each day which add to our knowledge and understanding of the world and make it a safer healthier place to live.  With such discoveries also come the ethical dilemmas on how to apply new technology in a way that does not threaten the long term future of the world.

Biology is an integrated subject, the individual topics can be taught using concept and context approaches according to the needs of the students.  There are recommended practical work in each unit, for which practical-related questions will be asked in the written exams as well as contributing to internal assessment.

There are six units in this new specification:

1. Lifestyle, Transport, Genes and Health.
2. Development, Plants and the Environment.
3. Practical Biology and Research Skills.  This will include a report on either a visit to a site of biological interest, or an issue relating to biology in a contemporary setting.
4. The Natural Environment and Species Survival.
5. Energy, Exercise and Coordination.
6. Practical Biology and Investigative Skills.  A written report or an individual experimental investigation, including presentation and analysis of numerical data.

The AS level consists of Units 1, 2 and 3 and is a qualification in its own right.  The A2 qualification consists of all six units and will be taken as individual units at examination sessions in January and June over the two year period for the student in Years 12 and 13.

Students interested in Biology have a wide range of career possibilities. Medicine, Veterinary Science, Radiography, Midwifery,  Nursing, Physiotherapy, Research and Laboratory Work such as Animal Technology.

Head of the Department: Ms. Susanna Mulligan