GCSE Biology

GCSE Biology gives students the chance to gain a good understanding of Human Biology, Organisms, Evolution and the Environment. The specification integrates the principles of ‘Working Scientifically’ throughout the topics in required practicals. The course gives students the context of how science is applied in the outside world by real scientists.

Exam Board: AQA

This qualification is linear which means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course.

Content Overview

Cell biology; Organisation; Infection and response; Bioenergetics; Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation and evolution; Ecology; Key ideas.

Assessment Progress Map for KS4

Units of Work and Examinations

A-Level Biology

The study of life itself, A-level Biology explores the theories and principles involved in living systems, in all their intricate beauty.  Topics you will learn about include lifestyle, transport, genes and health, development, plants and the environment, the natural environment and species survival, energy, exercise and co-ordination, as well as practical biology and research skills.  By the end of the course, you will know about the principles of genetics, molecules, taxonomy, natural selection, evolutionary theory, global warming, bacteria and viruses, and more.

Biology is needed for most degrees in medicine, biology, biomedical sciences, dentistry, dietetics, physiotherapy, orthoptics and veterinary medicine.  Biology is usually required or recommended for courses in biochemistry, environmental science, nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, sports science, physiology and speech therapy.

Exam Board: AQA

This qualification is linear which means students will sit all the A-level exams at the end of their A-level course.                                                                                                                                                 

Subject Content

Biological molecules; Cells; Organisms exchange substances with their environment; Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms; Energy transfers in and between organisms; Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments; Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems; The control of gene expression.

Units of Work and Examinations