Biology
Lead: Ms Bagoandas
Email: nbagoandas3.310@parkhighstanmore.org.uk
Subject overview
Biology A Level is designed to extend your understanding of the structure and function of living things and develop your ability to apply your understanding to explaining real-life and practical contexts. Practical work, mathematical skills and applying your knowledge to explain data forms an integral part of the course and there are 16 core practicals through which you will be assessed on these skills in class. In addition to practical investigations, you will study the following topics in-depth:
- Biological molecules
- Exchange and transport
- Modern genetics
- Ecosystems
- Cells and viruses
- Energy for biological processes
- Origins of genetic variation
- Classification
- Microbiology and pathogens
- Control systems
“Biology has been interesting, and the lessons are creatively planned – not just standard and boring! It has been an enjoyable course – especially the practicals!” - Student
Exam Board: Edexcel
Course Specification: 9BI0
Qualification obtained: The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Biology B
Entry requirements:
Students must achieve at least six 9-4 grades including English Language and Mathematics at GCSE.
Grade 6 in Biology and 6 in Chemistry or Physics or 6-6 in Combined Science
5 in English Language
5 in Mathematics
What you will study
Year 12:
- Biological Molecules
- Cells and Viruses
- Classification
- Exchange and Transport
- Energy for Biological Processes
Year 13:
- Microbiology and Pathogens
- Modern Genetics
- Origins of Genetic Variation
- Control Systems
- Ecosystems
Assessment
Assessment percentage:
100% Exam. There are three separate exams (9BIO/01, 9BIO/02 9BIO/03) & these are sat at the end of Year 13.
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Learning Hours | Assessment | Weight |
| 01 | Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics | 100 | Examination: 90-mark paper, 1hr 45min | 30% |
| 02 | Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology | 100 | Examination: 90-mark paper, 1hr 45min | 30% |
| 03 | General and Practical Principles in Biology | 130 | Examination: 120-mark paper, 2hr 30min | 40% |
| 04 | Science Practical endorsement | 20 | Teacher assessment of practicals will lead to an overall mark of Pass or Fail which will be reported on the results certificate | |
Progression routes
Biology is a subject that can open doors for many opportunities at university and for future careers. It provides students with a range of transferable skills. It can lead directly to careers based on Science and Research, Medicine and Healthcare, Agriculture, Sports and Fitness, Engineering as well as the Police and Emergency Services.
Additional Information
Course specific equipment:
A Lab coat is required for all practical lessons in Biology and Chemistry.
(This can be bought locally from Workwear World Ltd., 441- 445 Honeypot Lane, Stanmore.)
Essential reading material:
Edexcel AS/A Level Biology B Book 1 978-1447991144 Edexcel A Level Biology B Book 2978-1447991151 Note: Book 1 is needed for the 1st year of the course and Book 2 is needed for the 2nd year of the course
Recommended resources:
https://www.s-cool.co.uk/a-level/biology
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/
Enrichment:
Compulsory Field trip to study Ecology and sampling habitats. Approx. cost £100 for a residential trip. There are also other opportunities for attending non-compulsory courses of interest to Biology students throughout the year.