A-Level Biology
A Level Biology
By choosing Biology at A level, you will be taking your first step to being a serious student of a subject which has a profound effect on all our lives. Biology is a subject that continues to prove popular amongst our cohort for its very interesting and challenging nature. Many students enjoy the practical nature of Biology and lessons often see students carrying out varied activities such as dissection, microscopy and biochemistry, as well as having the opportunity for fieldwork as part of a residential trip. The Advanced Level course is designed to encourage students to develop essential knowledge of concepts in Biology. In addition, they recognise the value of Biology to society by encouraging understanding of scientific methods and an awareness of advances in technology.
Practical Work
Biology, like all sciences, is a practical subject. Throughout the course you will carry out many activities including:
• Microscopy to see the histology of tissues
• Dissection of animal and plant systems
• Aseptic techniques to study microbial growth
• Investigating biochemical activity within cells
• Investigating animal behaviour
• Investigating the distributions of species in the environment.
These experiments will give you the skills and confidence needed to carry out successful
experiments in your future degree courses.
Assessment Information
Paper 1
• Biological molecules
• Cells
• Organisms exchange substances with their environment
• Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
2 hours – 91 marks – 35% of A Level
Paper 2
• Energy transfers between organisms
• Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• The control of gene expression
2 hours – 91 marks – 35% of A level
Paper 3
• Any topics from Paper 1 and 2
• Written exam
2 hours – 78 marks – 30% of A Level
Why Choose Biology at St Bede’s?
• Small classes allow for individual attention and more intimate sharing of ideas
• Knowledgeable and experienced staff with a record of success
• Specialist lab and access to advanced equipment
• Excellent online provision
• Extra opportunities, such as the Biology Olympiad
• Additional support, including weekly ‘Drop-ins’
• Personalised UCAS advice for all, and extra support for Medicine and Oxbridge candidates
The top courses taken by students who have an A level in Biology are:
Medicine, Biomedicine, Pharmacology, Physiology, Psychology, Veterinary Science, Marine Biology, Biochemistry, Sport Science, Dentistry, Anatomy, Pathology & Pharmacy.