A Level Biology
Biology at A Level is a chance to significantly extend your biological knowledge. You will take a deeper look at some of the core ideas covered at GCSE level while covering a range new material. During your studies you will cover the basic components of living systems, biological molecules, biodiversity, homeostasis and much more. You will study ecosystems and their inhabitants, the impact of human society and the changing world. You will be encouraged to gain a superior understanding of biological principles, including genetics, patterns of inheritance, cloning and biological processes. Upon completion of the course you will be a capable and competent biologist, with a developed understanding of core principals. All of which will give you the level of competence required to progress to study at degree level.
Overview
Biology at A Level is a chance to significantly extend your biological knowledge. You will take a deeper look at some of the core ideas covered at GCSE level while covering a range new material. During your studies you will cover the basic components of living systems, biological molecules, biodiversity, homeostasis and much more. You will study ecosystems and their inhabitants, the impact of human society and the changing world. You will be encouraged to gain a superior understanding of biological principles, including genetics, patterns of inheritance, cloning and biological processes. Upon completion of the course you will be a capable and competent biologist, with a developed understanding of core principals. All of which will give you the level of competence required to progress to study at degree level.
Biology is essentially the science of life – the very thing that keeps us alive and keeps alive all the wonderful creatures with whom we share our planet. Biology’s broadness is also really quite magnificent – encompassing ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, botany, zoology & anatomy. It is not surprising then that Biology is one of the most popular A-Level courses in the UK. Biology is of course essential study for anyone interested in a career in medicine, microbiology, veterinary sciences and many other very popular fields of work. Equally, though, its standing as a strongly academic subject commands great respect from any university admissions tutor and it will no doubt boost your chances of a place at many further education institutions both in the UK and globally.
Entry Requirements
Although the A Level Biology programmes build on the course content of GCSE, it is not necessary to have this qualification before undertaking an A-Level. However, in order to meet the demands of the course, it is recommended that candidates have literacy and communication skills equivalent to C or higher at GCSE. Please note that full tutor support is still provided throughout your course duration. All students must be 16 years of age or above.
Study Hours Required
Approximately 350 hours.
Examination Information
Students are required to arrange and pay for their A Level Biology examinations and manage the course work element if the subject requires this. Students must check the relevant examination board website for further information and final examination sitting dates for the specification. All examinations are held during the May / June exam period of every year.
A Level Biology The full A-Level consists of ten different units
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Unit 1 Biological Molecules
Biological Molecules – The first unit of the course is focused on the “chemistry of life” and the various chemical building blocks on which life is built. Organic molecules such as carbohydrates, lipids and proteins and their functions within living cells are covered as well as the synthesis of DNA and proteins; incredibly important functions that literally are the underlying “code” for the natural world. The unit also delves into the function and action of enzymes, natural catalysts of biological and cellular chemical reactions as well as how inorganic ions such as nitrates and calcium play their part in living systems before rounding off on why the characteristics and properties of water make it so incredibly important.
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Unit 2 Cells, viruses and Reproduction of Living Things
Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things – This unit goes deep within the cell to discover the difference in structures of eukaryotes, prokaryotes and viruses. Here you will also discover the various forms of cell division and how these work together within organisms to sustain life and promote growth as well as their role in the reproduction of plants and animals. This unit also takes a look at the microscope and how we can use them to observe at the cellular and intracellular level.
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Unit 3 Classification & Biodiversity
Classification and Biodiversity – This unit looks at the various models for classifying organisms according to their characteristics and considers the evidence used in the creation of these models. The important idea of natural selection is also discovered and why it can lead to the appearance of completely new species.
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Unit 4 Exchange & Transport
Exchange and Transport – In this unit we discover the various transport mechanisms found within the cells of living organisms that allows the movement of vital substances and waste products around the body and into and out of cells. These include the circulatory system, and how it functions and is controlled as well as the vascular system found in plants.
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Unit 5 Energy for Biological Processes
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Unit 6 Microbiology and Pathogens
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Unit 7 Modern Genetics
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Unit 8 Origins of Genetic Variation
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Unit 9 Control Systems
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Unit 10 Ecosystems
