students in class

A Level Biology

Why Study Biology?

Saving threatened species, studying microbes, curing diseases? Today’s world offers many challenges to a biologist. Which ones are you interested in? With exciting advances in areas such as genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, the environment and marine science – there is no greater time to be studying Biology.

The department is well resourced and we try to make the subject as hands-on as possible – organising trips to spend the day at FSC Juniper Hall to experience real life Biology and a trip to Camber Sands to investigate sand dune succession, where possible. We also make use of our beautiful grounds to study biodiversity through sampling.

What are the Career Opportunities?

Whether deciding on a career in medicine, genetics, forensics, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, biochemistry, psychology, sports science, conservation or journalism, a biological qualification gives you many skills and increases your career options so you can adapt to the world changing around you.

Course Outline

Module 1 – Development of practical skills in Biology
Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.
Module 2 – Foundations in Biology
Includes: Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides and nucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation.
Module 3 – Exchange and transport Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease
Includes: • Exchange surfaces • Transport in animals • Transport in plants. Includes: • Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system • Biodiversity • Classification and evolution.
Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
Includes: • Communication and homeostasis • Excretion as an example of homeostatic control • Neuronal communication • Hormonal communication • Plant and animal responses • Photosynthesis • Respiration. Includes: • Cellular control • Patterns of inheritance •Manipulating genomes • Cloning and biotechnology • Ecosystems • Populations and sustainability.

 

Many of the students hope to study science-based courses at University. The quantity of practical work being undertaken is a strength of this Centre [and Dunottar demonstrates] excellent practice and really ensures students are prepared for practical activities. – Katie Verrecchia, OCR Visiting Science Monitor

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