Biology in the Sixth Form

The minimum requirement to start a Sixth Form course in Biology is a grade B in Biology, and ideally a grade B in Chemistry, both at GCSE. A double A grade would be expected from candidates with Dual Award Science.

Biology is good subject for those interested in Environmental Science or for those intending to take mainly Arts subjects but wishing to include the study of a science at AS or A Level. It should be noted, however, that Biology includes a number of biochemistry related topics.

Schemes of work for the Sixth Form

A Level

EXAMINATION BOARD OCR

Topics studied in Biology include cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, ecology and environmental issues. We follow the OCR Specification, in which there is a special emphasis on human biology. Practical lessons involve experiments, investigations and microscopy, but the only dissection is of such organs as the heart and kidney. There will also be some field work. The practical work, as well as much of the biology theory, often has a chemical basis and requires mathematical skills, including simple statistical analysis.

Aims

• develop their interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology;
• appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society;
• develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works;
• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.

LOWER 6th UNITS for AS BIOLOGY [OCR]

A Cells, Exchange and Transport

Cell structure, Cell membranes, Cell division, Cell Diversity and Cellular organisation, Lung structure and Breathing, are studied along with the transport system of Plants and Animals.

[Examination: 30% AS, 1 hr, L6]

B Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health.

Biological molecules, nucleic acids, enzymes and their functions in living organism. Diet and food production, health and disease, (malaria AIDS, TB) immunity and the effects of smoking on health. Biodiversity, classification and evolution are the topics studied in this unit.

[Examination: 50% AS, 1 hr 45 minutes, L6]

C Practical Skills in Biology 1

This unit assesses practical and investigative skills developed within contexts encountered during AS Biology.

Candidates are required to carry out three tasks:

1. Qualitative task [10 marks]

2. Quantitative task [10 marks]

3. Evaluation task [20 marks]

Tasks will be chosen from a selection provided by OCR. Students carry out these tasks under controlled conditions. Each task will be internally assessed.

[20% AS]

UPPER 6th UNITS for A2 BIOLOGY [OCR]

D Communication Homeostasis and Energy

Communication by nerves and hormones, excretion, and the transfer of energy in respiration and photosynthesis are studied.

[Examination: 15% AL, 1 hr U6]

E Control Genomes and Environment

Cellular control, meiosis and variation, biotechnology and gene technologies, ecosystems and sustainability including plant responses and animal behaviour are studied.

[Examination: 25 % AL, I hr 45 minutes, U6]

F Practical Skills in Biology 2

The same format as for the AS practical skills assessment

[10% AL]