Biology - KS5

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Teachers of Science

  • Miss K Atherton
  • Mrs V Barclay
  • Miss S Clark
  • Miss L Cook (Curriculum Leader)
  • Mrs C Jukes

Reasons to Study Biology

Biology is a fascinating subject, the study of which will see you learn about the natural world and all the living things within it. Gaining an A-level in this subject opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options, many of which can take you all around the world. Students choose Biology for a number of reasons — perhaps you have a specific career in mind that requires a Biology qualification or maybe you are simply interested in the human body, or in the natural world around us. Alongside in depth knowledge of the biological world, biologists also develop skills and understanding of scientific methods, data analysis, observation, correlations and causal relationships. Given the group work that occurs throughout the course, students also develop good teamwork and communication skills.

Our Vision for Biology

Students at SJB study science as it helps our understanding of the world around us. Everything we know about the universe, from how trees reproduce to what an atom is made up of, is the result of scientific research and experiment. Human progress throughout history has largely rested on advances in science. From our knowledge of gravity to cutting-edge medicines, students of Science have shaped our modern world. All of these advances can trace their origin back to individuals learning about science as students. That’s why it is in all our interests to promote Science as a subject at SJB; it ensures the next wave of progress in all of the fields that affect our daily lives.

Career Paths

Biology opens the doors to a huge range of degree courses and career paths including:

  • Medicine
  • Dentistry
  • Veterinary Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Scientific research
  • Optometry
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Environmental Research
  • Science teaching
  • Science Journalism
  • Banking
  • Civil Service
  • Industrial Research
  • Law (Patent and General)
  • The City – financial careers

 

Biology Curriculum Mapping

Qualification: GCE Biology
Exam Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
Biological Processes Paper – 2hr 15mins
Biological Diversity Paper – 2hr 15mins
Unified Paper – 1hr 30mins
Link to specification: A Level Specification Biology A H420

Course Overview:

Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology

  • 1.1 Practical skills assessed in a written examination
  • 1.2 Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Module 2 – Foundations in biology

  • 2.1.1 Cell structure
  • 2.1.2 Biological molecules
  • 2.1.3 Nucleotides and nucleic acids
  • 2.1.4 Enzymes
  • 2.1.5 Biological membranes
  • 2.1.6 Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation

Module 3 – Exchange and transport

  • 3.1.1 Exchange surfaces
  • 3.1.2 Transport in animals
  • 3.1.3 Transport in plants

Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease

  • 4.1.1 Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system
  • 4.2.1 Biodiversity
  • 4.2.2 Classification and evolution

Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy

  • 5.1.1 Communication and homeostasis
  • 5.1.2 Excretion as an example of homeostatic control
  • 5.1.3 Neuronal communication
  • 5.1.4 Hormonal communication
  • 5.1.5 Plant and animal responses
  • 5.2.1 Photosynthesis
  • 5.2.2 Respiration

Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

  • 6.1.1 Cellular control
  • 6.1.2 Patterns of inheritance
  • 6.1.3 Manipulating genomes
  • 6.2.1 Cloning and biotechnology
  • 6.3.1 Ecosystems
  • 6.3.2 Populations and sustainability.
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