A Level Biology

What is it?

The study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environment, at the whole organism and cellular level.

Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?

Excellent teaching from caring and approachable staff. A structured course with quality resources, including a website, and regular assessment so students can track their progress. Enrichment opportunities including Medical Society, Science Club, Operating Theatre Live, British Biology Olympiad and links with Blackpool Victoria Hospital. Our students are motivated and go on to study a wide range of Biology related university courses.

What skills will I develop?

• Practical skills
• Mathematical skills
• Application of knowledge to unfamiliar contexts
• Scientific essay writing Research and referencing
• Analysing data Drawing conclusions from evidence

How will I be taught?

• A very structured course, with resources consistent across all teaching staff.
• Student notes provided for each topic to consolidate the key theory.
• Theory lessons including individual and group work, quizzes of content and lots of exam question application from question packs.
• Practical activities to prepare for the required practicals and exam questions on practical techniques.
• Regular homework and graded assessments so students can track their progress and reflect on area’s for improvement.
• Online support including our Biology website with all resources and revision links, Google Drive resources and Google Classroom.
• Advice on structured revision techniques supported by research. Extra support sessions where required.

How will I be assessed?

100% exam with 3 papers (2 hours each) at the end of year 2. There are 12 required practicals assessed throughout the course which are graded pass/fail.

Teacher expertise

A team of teachers with 10-25 years experience. Between us we have degrees in a wide range of specialisms, including Applied and Environmental Biology, Marine Biology, Microbiology and Psychology and also industry research and development experience at Syngenta. Some teachers are also examiners.

Field trips, projects and employability opportunities

• Medical Society
• Science Club
• Operating Theatre Live
• British Biology Olympiad
• Pond Survey
• Zoo Trip and conservation talk
• Visiting careers speakers
• Work experience support, including links with Blackpool Victoria Hospital

Where does it lead?

A Level Biology can lead to careers that are very Biology focused, but it can also help to support progression to a wide range of other areas. In recent years our students have gone on to study the following university courses: Animal Science, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Chemistry, Criminology, Dental Surgery, Environmental Science, Forensic Science, Geography, Health and Social Care, Human Biology, Medicine, Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Ocean Science, Oncology, Palaeontology and Geology, Paramedic Science, Physiology and Pharmacology, Primary Education, Psychology, Sport and Exercise Science, Veterinary Medicine, Zoology.

Equipment

You will need a calculator and ruler for your exams. Textbooks/ revision guides are not required, but for those who wish to purchase one I would recommend CGP AQA A Level Biology Complete Revision and Practice ISBN: 9781789080261.

Examination board

AQA.