Contact : Mrs S Stephenson
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| Exam Board & Code: OCR H021 and H421 Length of Course: 2 years to full A level |
What is Biology A level about?
The specification is divided into topics each containing key concepts. These include biochemistry, mammalian physiology, health and disease, biotechnology and ecosystems and sustainability. Within each section are included subjects which are having a significant impact on the living world in the twenty first century. The course incorporates extensive practical work which is both incorporated into the theoretical topics and also assessed separately.
Is this course for me?
Students are required to have at least GCSE grade BB in Core and Additional Science or a B in GCSE Biology and at least a C in Mathematics before starting the course.
What else do I need to know?
This is a demanding course which combines in depth theory with extensive practical work. Success depends on students taking an active role in their learning. Students will benefit from taking A level chemistry enabling them to understand the biochemistry section of both AS and A2 course. The course does include a field course in Devon at the end of year 12 costing in the region of £320
What do other students say?
“The syllabus is varied so everybody finds something they really enjoy”. “The field course is great, brilliant to be able to discuss ecology when you have actually been there and seen it in action”.
Where could it lead?
Biology is a requirement for those thinking of doing Medicine, Veterinary Science, Research and Development, Sports Science, Physiotherapy and many other associated courses at university.
How is this course structured?
This course is structured to allow external examinations in June for year 12 and in January and June for Year 13. At AS knowledge and understanding of key concepts are treated separately; important links between different areas of biology are largely assessed synoptically at A2.
| Unit Content for AS |
Unit Assessment for AS |
| F211: Cells, Exchange and Transport
1 hour written paper, Taken in January
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AS – 30%,
A2 – 15%
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| F212: Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health.
Biological molecules, Food and health,Biodiversity and evolution.
1 hour 45 minute written paper. Taken in June
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AS – 50%
A2 – 25%
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| F213: Practical skills in Biology 1
Controlled internal assessment of practical skills. Internal Assessment
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AS – 20%, A2 – 10% |
| Unit content for A2 |
Unit assessment for A2 |
| F214: Communications, Homeostasis and Energy.
Communication and homeostasis. Excretion. Photosynthesis. Respiration.
I hour written paper. Taken in June.
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A2 – 15% |
| F215: Control, Genomes and Environment.
Cellular control. Biotechnology, Ecosystems and sustainability, Responding to the environment.
1 hour 45 minutes written paper. Taken in January.
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A2 – 25% |
| F216: Practical skills in Biology 2
Controlled internal assessment of practical skills. Internal Assessment
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A2 – 10% |
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