Year 8 Parents’ Evening, Thursday 29th Feb. 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Biology – A Level

Taught at: Heolddu, Lewis Girls’ School
Qualification: WJEC GCE AS/A Level in Biology

Course Overview

This course will allow you to gain an insight into the Science of Life. You will study exciting and sometimes controversial issues such as genetic engineering, recent medical developments, biotechnology and environmental issues. You will develop practical skills by planning experiments, collecting data, analysing experimental results and making conclusions.

Biology is essential for careers in medicine and veterinary sciences as well as in disciplines such as biochemistry, microbiology, ecology and environmental sciences. We recommend that Biology is taken in conjunction with complementary subjects such as the other sciences and Mathematics.

Course Entry Requirements

Minimum of B grade in Chemistry/Double Award Science.

Course Specification:

WJEC GCE AS/A Level in Biology
To be welcomed back to sixth form you’ll need at least 5 GCSEs graded A* – C, two of which must be English & Mathematics. We offer resit lessons in English & Mathematics if you don’t achieve the required grades.

Course Content

The course comprises five units taught across two years.

Year 12:

Unit 1:   Cells & Biochemistry
Unit 2:  Biodiversity & Body Systems

Year 13:

Unit 3:  Populations & Environment Microbiology Metabolism & Homeostasis
Unit 4:  Reproduction & Genetics Variation & Evolution Immunology
Unit 5:  Practical examination

The teaching of practical skills is integrated with theoretical topics and they are both assessed through the written exam papers.

In addition to a practical examination, students will sit a written examination which tests the application of knowledge and skills. Students will need to demonstrate they can analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information and evidence.