Biology

Staff

Head of Department    Dr. J. McAllister

Teacher                        Mrs. S. Jones

Teacher                        Mrs. M. Wan

Teacher                        Miss. T. Carberry

Curriculum

Simply put Biology is the study of life. From the very smallest virus to the very largest whale; life has a wonder about it. Biology is one of the most useful and wide ranging subjects in science and it includes the study of molecules and cells, body systems, photosynthesis and genetics. It is the perfect choice for curious minds.

At GCSE level Biology should ideally be chosen with Chemistry and Physics and it works well with many other subjects such as Maths, Food Technology, Geography and PE. For further study we strongly recommend that you pair it with Chemistry at GCSE and A level.

Pupils should also be aware that courses such as medicine may also require GCSE Physics too.

GCSE

 At GCSE level the Biology Department study the CCEA Specification. The course is comprised of the following units:

Unit 1:  Cells, Living Processes and Biodiversity (35%)

Unit 2:  Body systems, Genetics, Micro-organisms and Health (40%)

Unit 3:  Practical Skills (25%) comprising of:

• Booklet A – 2 externally marked practicals (7½%)

• Booklet B – external written practical examination (17½%)

Pupils will set the Unit 1 in June of Year 11

The Unit 3 Booklet A will be completed in school during March of Year 12

The Unit 2 and Unit 3 Booklet B will be sat in June of Year 12

AS/A2 

Advanced level Biology offers a wide and comprehensive course which will enable further study in a wide range of University and Research courses. It also has a practical skills component that will produce young people equipped for the laboratories of the future.

CCEA Biology A level has a large amount of content and it suits pupils who are prepared to work independently and who can deal with detailed and complex information. You should ideally have Chemistry GCSE.

Why study A Level Biology?

• To allow further study for a wide range of careers in the biomedical/ food technology/ agriculture/ sports science and environmental sectors to name but a few
• To allow understanding of cutting edge technologies such as Genetic Engineering and Stem cell technology
• To produce responsible young people ready to face the challenges of disease and pollution in the 21^st century

Course Units

Careers

 Biology allows further study for a wide range of careers in the biomedical/ food technology/ agriculture/ sports science and environmental sectors to name but a few. It also develops an understanding of cutting edge technologies such as Genetic Engineering and Stem cell technology.