Biology

Board: Edexcel

Specification: AS 8040 and A2 9040

Introduction

The Edexcel syllabus has been chosen to cover a wide range of skills and topics. The AS and A2 course both continue to develop analytical and practical skills within a scientific framework leading on from GCSE. There is practical assessment in the form of coursework in yesr 13, which includes practical research, methodology, biological drawings and essay writing skills.

Aims of sixth form biology work:

• To develop knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles

• To promote an appreciation of the importance of experimental and investigatory work

• To develop an understanding of the connections between different areas of Biology

• To sustain and develop an enjoyment and interest in the study of living organisms

• To recognise the value and responsibility of biology in society

• To Provide opportunities for an understanding of spiritual, moral and cultural issues.

Course Structure

Unit (code)	Method	Time	Contribution
Unit (code)	Method	Time	AS	Advanced
1 (6101)	Written exam	1 hour	33%	16.67%
2b (6102)	Written exam	1 hour	33%	16.67%
3 (6103A)	Written exam & Coursework	1 hour	18% 15%	9% 7.5%

Unit 1 - Molecules and Cells

This unit looks at molecules, enzymes, cellular organisation and the cell cycle.

Unit 2 - Exchange, Transport and Reproduction

This unit covers exchanges with the environment, transport systems, adaptation to the environment and sexual reproduction.

Unit 3 - Energy and the Environment; individual investigation

This unit covers modes of nutrition, ecosystems, energy flow, recycling of nutrients, energy resources, and human influences on the environment.

Unit (code)	Method	Time	Contribution
Unit (code)	Method	Time	AS	Advanced
4 (6104)	Written exam	1 ½ hours	--	16.67%
5 (6105)	Written exam	1 ½ hour	--	16.67%
6 (6106B)	Written exam & Coursework	1h 10 mins	-- --	16.67%

Unit 4 - Respiration and Coordination plus option (usually Microbiology)

This unit will focus on cellular respiration including both aerobic and anaerobic respiration. It will also explore how the internal environment is regulated in mammalian kidneys and through hormonal and nervous control.

Unit 5 - Genetics, Evolution and Biodiversity

This will focus on how continuous and discontinuous variation can occur and how genes are expressed in the environment. It will also look at sources of new inherited variation, genetic counselling, environmental change and human evolution.

Unit 6 - Synoptic paper and practical coursework based on the whole syllabus.

Am I suited?

You will be suited to Biology A Level if you:

• Are interested in pursuing further education in Biological Sciences, or a career in any of the areas listed below.

• Are interested in an have an enjoyment of the study of living things

• Can think logically and scientifically in order to understand theoretical concepts

Subject complements

Biology combines well with many subjects, but students interested in a career or further education in Chemical or Biological Sciences should take Chemistry and one of Physics and Mathematics alongside Biology.

Where it leads

In terms of further education, Biology is important if you wish to study a science at university, but it is also a useful subject for any degree.

Biology can lead on to careers in medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, pharmacy, forestry, marine biology, veterinary science and agriculture, as well as opportunities with many industrial, scientific and government laboratories and organisations, along with teaching positions.