KS5 Biology | OCR A (H020, H420)

The Biology A-Level allows students to develop their interest and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• 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

Students studying GCE Biology will need a minimum of a GCSE Science double award BB grade

Students cover the following 6 modules:

• Development of Practical Skills in Biology
• Foundations in Biology
• Exchange and Transport
• Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease
• Communication, Homeostasis and Energy
• Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems

Assessment

Biological Processes (2hr15mins paper) – 37% of A2 grade
Biological Diversity (2hr15mins paper) – 37% of A2 grade
Unified Biology (1hr30mins paper) – 26% of A2 grade

Progression Routes

With a biology A level students can go on to study different biological science courses at university, such as Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Botany, Zoology, Parasitology, Aquatic Bioscience, Genetics, Virology, and many more. These often lead to careers in marine biology, medicine, microbiology, research, botany, genetics, to name a few.

Additional Information

Practical Endorsement in Biology (Teacher assessed) – Students will be assessed throughout the year in practical investigations, however, there is no external assessment of practical skills.