Biology (A Level)

Biology is a really interesting subject to study, especially at this time, as scientists are making big advances in understanding how organisms work. Biology, molecular biology, and genetics are dynamic areas of scientific growth. The pharmaceutical industry is very important to the UK economy.

In your AS year, you will study 2 units. In unit 1 you will be studying the structure and function of cells, and human physiology (heart and lungs). In unit 2 you will learn about the molecular basis of life, the abundance of different organisms that exist as well as factors impacting on our health and well-being. You will also study How Science works, which will prepare you for setting up experiments, collecting and evaluating data, and writing up experiment reports.

In A2 you will take units 3 and 4, which cover Human Physiology and Neuroscience, the Biochemistry of Energy, Genetic Controls and DNA Technology. You will continue to study How Science Works, and apply your scientific knowledge to these topics. You will need to carry out and write up experiments. As part of the course, you will also take part in a field trip to collect and analyze data.

Biology is a demanding subject and you need good study skills. You need to be able to work independently at home and to read, analyze and write about scientific topics.

Pursuing a career in Biology can be very rewarding and exciting. Studying Biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations and evaluate evidence. You learn how living things work and how they relate to each other, be they large animals or microscopic beings. Biology increases our understanding of the natural world and helps us address issues of worldwide concern like environmental depletion, threats to human health and world food supplies.

What will I study?

• Development of practical skills in biology
• Foundations in biology
• Exchange and transport
• Biodiversity, evolution and disease
• Communication, homeostasis and energy
• Genetics, evolution and ecosystems