Biology

Exam Board: OCR Biology A Syllabus: A-level: H420 Consult: Mr Blair

Mrs Gillespie

WHY STUDY THE SUBJECT? Biology has application to virtually everything we do, from behaviour to population control, from diet to agriculture, from health to chemical and germ warfare. Whilst Biology is the most approachable Science it nonetheless provides enough academic challenge to stimulate the most enquiring mind. From GM foods to human cloning to stem cell research, Biology is talked about in the media every day. The OCR Biology A-level is rigorous and engaging, and aims to equip students with a contemporary grasp of key biological principles allowing you to apply your knowledge to new situations. Concepts are taught in the context of scientific research and development, with practical investigations forming a key part of the curriculum.

CONTENT AND BREAKDOWN Year 12 Modules: • Module 1 – Development of practical skills in Biology • Module 2 – Foundations in biology • Module 3 – Exchange and transport • Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease

A-level Modules (in addition to the Year 12 Modules above) • Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy • Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems • Practical endorsement - a pass/fail component separate from the final grade. A minimum of 10% of the final exam will be based on questions relating to practical techniques

ASSESSMENT The A-level is assessed by three examinations

EXTRA CURRICULAR In the summer term of Year 12, a field course is undertaken to give students the opportunity to study field techniques, ecology and environmental Biology. Students will spend 3 days at a Field Studies Council Residential Site. Here they are taught about and will carry out all the practical element of the Ecology and Environmental Biology, from freshwater sampling techniques to sand dune succession studies.

AFTER ASHCOMBE Apart from obvious career courses such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacology, pathology, psychology, forensic science, biochemistry and biophysics, Biology may be taken with almost any combination of other subjects and may have application in marketing, management, law, journalism or town planning!