A-Level in Biology

This course focuses on a range of topics including Biological molecules, Exchange within organisms, Genetics and evolution and Energy transfer within and between organisms.

Over the two years the core content of the course includes:

• Biological molecules
• Cells
• Organisms exchanging substances with their environment
• Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
• Energy transfer in and between organisms
• How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• The control of gene expression

• Component 1: Paper 1 (topics 1-4, including relevant practical skills) written exam - 35%
• Component 2: Paper 2 (topics 5-8, including relevant practical skills) written exam - 35%
• Component 3: Paper 3 (topics 1-8, including relevant practical skills) written exam - 30%

Practical endorsement appears on a student’s A-level certificate as a separately reported result. Practical endorsement is assessed by teachers and is based on direct observation of a student’s competency in a range of skills.

For all Sixth Form courses, students must have five GCSE (or equivalent) passes at Grades 9-4. For this course this must include Mathematics at Grade 5 or above and English Language/Literature at grade 4 or above. Students should also have EITHER a minimum of grades 6-6 in GCSE 'Trilogy Combined Science' OR a minimum of Grade 6 in GCSE Biology (separate sciences).

If you do not select Mathematics as one of your other options it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to study Core Maths alongside Biology as an additional subject in Year 12.

If you would like to study a combination of more than one of Maths, Further Maths (double option), Biology, Chemistry, Physics, there are additional entry requirements with regards to GCSE Average Points Score (APS).

Further details can be found in the options booklet on our website: https://www.ashbyschool.org.uk

The skills developed during this course are much sought-after by employers. Biology students can choose from a variety of career options, such as becoming a doctor, vet, laboratory research technician, teacher or entering another Science-related profession. A Biology A level is highly valued, opening doors into a whole range of careers and degrees.