Page 25 - Sixth Form prospectus 2020

COURSE
BIOLOGY
TITLE

● Grade 6 or above in GCSE biology (separate science) or
grades 6-6 or above in combined science: trilogy and
SPECIFIC ENTRY ● Grade 5 or above in GCSE mathematics, and

REQUIREMENTS ● Grade 5 or above in GCSE English language
Students will need to successfully complete a bridging unit in

biology over the summer.
Advanced level biology is a challenging course involving elements
of biochemistry, maths, ecology and physiology.
It is suited to students who have an interest in our bodies, life

processes in plants and animals, the environment and
biotechnology, and are willing to work hard.
Subject content:

CONTENT OF 1. Biological molecules
2. Cells
COURSE
3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment
4. Genetic information, variation

5. Energy transfers in and between organisms
6. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external
environments
7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
8. The control of gene expression
Practical skills and analysis will be taught in the weekly practical

EXAMINATIONS lesson, and examined in the theory exam at the end of the
course. The three A level exam papers will be taken at the end of
AND
the two years and will involve data handling, short answers, a
ASSESSMENTS comprehension and an essay (10 % of the A level). During Y12 all

students will sit internal pre-public examinations.
As well as being an interesting subject in itself, A level biology is a
useful qualification for students who want to study a broad range

of other subjects. Students will be able to move towards careers in
SKILLS, LINKS
medicine, veterinary science, nursing, conservation,
AND physiotherapy, sports sciences, biomedical sciences,
PROGRESSION environmental sciences, agricultural science, zoology and marine
biology. In addition, some former students have gone on
successfully to study a range of unrelated degrees such as
architecture, accountancy, law and English.

Head of Biology: Mrs E Cooper
CONTACT
lizcooper@keswick.cumbria.sch.uk