A Level Biology | Learning | Academics | Curriculum| Sixth Form | Ryde School | Isle of Wight

A Level Biology

A Level pupils develop a wide range of skills including experimental, data analysis, critical evaluation of information, communication and collaborative working. Use of IT will be actively encouraged, as will independent learning. Our aim is “To Bring Biology to Life”.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GCSE Biology or Dual or Trilogy Award Science Grade 6 Maths in Context as their enrichment choice or A Level Maths
“This year I participated in the Royal Holloway Masterclass Lecture series and the Rare Diseases Day. The Animal Sanctuary visit and Ecology also helped with my view to reading Natural Sciences at University.”

WHERE THIS SUBJECT CAN TAKE YOU

As the Biology courses at Ryde do not over-specialise, a huge range of degree or work opportunities exist.  Recent leavers have gone on to read Medicine, Veterinary, Microbiology, Forensics, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Geography and Environmental Science.

“Biology can be useful in many different careers including jobs within environmental sciences, medicine and nursing, and science and research” (UCAS)

AWARD - A LEVEL
EDEXCEL Biology 

COURSE CONTENT/STRUCTURE

Year 1

  • Biological Molecules
  • Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things
  • Classification and Biodiversity
  • Exchange and Transport
  • Microbiology and Pathogens
  • Origins of genetic variation and ecosystems

Year 2

  • Energy for Biological Processes
  • Modern Genetics
  • Control Systems

PLUS!

  • Core Practicals
  • Two days fieldwork
  • Animal Sanctuary visit plus others
  • Olympiad opportunities
  • “Meet the former student tutorials”
ASSESSMENT

Separate ‘practical competency’ in “hands on” practical skills but this will not contribute to the eventual grade.
Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics (90 marks in 1 hour 45 minute paper)
Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology (90 marks in 1 hour 45 minute paper)
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology (120 marks in 2 hours 30 minutes)
 

 

LEARNER PROFILE

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