Biology Key Stage 5

 

Qualification

Edexcel - GCE AS level and GCSE A level Biology

AS students are examined in 2 units and submit a Biological report (Unit 3):

• Unit 1. Lifestyle, Transport, Genes & Health
• Unit 2. Development, Plants & Environment

A2 students are examined in a further 2 units and submit an Individual Investigation (Unit 6)

• Unit 4. The Natural Environment & Species Survival
• Unit 5. Energy, Exercise & Coordination

Course Length

'AS' - one year. Full 'A' Level - one further year

Entry Requirements

A minimum of grade B in GCSE Biology or GCSE Additional Science (Higher Tier). We would also expect students to have at least a grade B in four other GCSE subjects including English and Maths.

AS Biology is not a suitable course for students who studied GCSE Applied Science.

Course Delivery

You will be taught by two teachers.

Content is taught through eight context-led contemporary topics.

Activities are an integral part of the learning process which includes practical lab based tasks.

You will have access to an exclusive dedicated website, multimedia resources, and course texts.

You will be expected to work independently outside of lessons to complement and consolidate teaching & learning.

Field Courses - The major field visit takes place in June or July of the 'AS' year and covers essential material for A2. There is also a trip to an area of Biological interest (currently Edinburg Zoo) in order to write a report for AS coursework.

Assessment Method

Test	Date	Exam Length	AS Level	A Level
AS level : Year 12
Unit 1	January	1 hour 30 minutes	40%	20%
Unit 2	June	1 hour 30 minutes	40%	20%
Unit 3 (Coursework)			20%	10%
A level : Year 13
Unit 4	January	1 hour 30 minutes		20%
Unit 5	June	1 hour 30 minutes		20%
Unit 6 (Coursework)				10%

Progression from the course

Biology is a very popular subject which many students continue to university. Previous students have completed degrees in: Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Sciences, Nursing, Midwifery, Genetics, Biochemistry, Agriculture, Sports Sciences, Anthropology, Zoology, Marine Biology, Psychology and Physiology.

Biology is an academic subject that can develop organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills and as such it is recognised and highly regarded by employers.