Course
Biology
Exam Board
OCR
For more information contact Head of Department:
Mr R Rawal - rrawal@stedmunds.org
Brief introduction to subject:
Biology is an interesting and exciting subject. The specification content will require pupils to acquire a large amount of factual knowledge, which can only be achieved through independent learning. Pupils are expected to read around the subject and should spend at least 4 hours per week on consolidating their knowledge outside the classroom
The A level course is designed to provide a suitable preparation for degree courses. As well as developing biological knowledge and understanding the course emphasises the way biologists work and the contributions they make to modern society. The course builds on concepts and skills that will have been developed in the new GCSE science specifications. It presents biology as exciting, relevant and challenging.
What our students say
"The course covers so many topics including many that are discussed in the media." "The field trips are great for team work."
Course Requirements
Science - Grade 6-6 in Trilogy Combined or Grade 6 in Biology
English - Grade 4
Maths - Grade 6
Year 12
Module 1 - Development of practical skills: (planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation)
This module underpins the whole of the specification, and covers the practical skills that students should develop throughout the course. The practical skills in this module can be assessed within written examinations.
Module 2 - Foundations in biology
Includes: Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides and nucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation
Module 3 - Exchange and Transport
Includes: Exchange surfaces, Transport in animals, Transport in plants
Module 4 - Biodiversity, evolution and disease
Includes: Communicable diseases, disease, prevention and the immune system, Biodiversity Classification and evolution
Year 13
Module 1 - Development of practical skills: (planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation)
This module underpins the whole of the specification, and covers the practical skills that students should develop throughout the course. The practical skills in this module can be assessed within written examinations and (for A Level only) within the Practical Endorsement.
Module 5 - Communications, homeostasis and energy
Includes: Communication and homeostasis, Excretion as an example of homeostatic control, Neuronal communication, Hormonal communication, Plant and animal response, Photosynthesis, Respiration
Module 6 - Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
Includes: Cellular control, Patterns of inheritance, Manipulating genomes, Cloning and biotechnology, Ecosystems, Populations and sustainability
