Author: hwilliams

Biology

To study Biology you have to have attained at least a C grade at GCSE level.
What you will study
There are 2 units of study at AS (40%):
Unit 1 - Basic Biochemistry and Cell Organisation (20%)
Unit 2 – Biodiversity and Physiology of Body systems (20%)
There are 3 units of study at A2 (60%):
Unit 3 – Energy, Homeostasis and the Environment (25%)
Unit 4 – Variation, Inheritance and Options (25%)
The options are: Immunology and Disease, Human Musculoskeletal Anatomy or Neurobiology and Behaviour. You will only study one option.
Unit 5 – Practical exam (10%)
This unit comprises two tasks:
Experimental Task
Practical Analysis Task
How you will study
4.5 hours a week of formal teaching, with at least 4 hours a week of personal study. Homework and independent study are important features of the course.
How you will be assessed
The examination board is WJEC.
Each unit is assessed by an exam, which will take place in June of the first year for AS. A2 units are examined in June of the second year. Papers may be retaken to improve upon grades.
Your options after this course
Biology complements and balances other courses such as Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Psychology and others at higher or further education. Career opportunities include Medicine, Veterinary Science and Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Forensic Science, Environmental Health and Food Sciences, Physiotherapy and Nursing.
Further information from Mrs A. Turner,
Biology Teacher.

Why choose Biology?
Biology develops a breadth of knowledge relating to the living world, from the internal workings of organisms to the ethical considerations of genetics. Biology is a ‘cutting edge’ science and it is constantly in the news: GM crops, stem cells, DNA profiling, the control of diseases, global warming and many other social and environmental issues. Specific topics covered include biodiversity and physiology of body systems, genetics and evolution, cell organisation, evolution and conservation.

ST BRIGID’S SCHOOL
YSGOL SANTES FFRAID