Biology
Our aim in the
Biology Department is to stimulate curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Biology
and the study of living organisms in particular, develop an interest in and
care of the environment and promote respect for all forms of life. We also aim
to equip our pupils with a scientific approach to the solving of problems thus
providing training, both as an end in itself and as the foundation for more
advanced study.
To achieve these aims it is important that all pupils develop practical skills
that will enable them to work safely with scientific apparatus and biological
materials and research skills that will enable them to work independently. We
thoroughly prepare our pupils for their external examinations within an
atmosphere of interest and commitment.
Key Stage 3
In the Junior school,
Biology covers the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum. Much practical work is
carried out to promote interest in the subject and Independent study is
encouraged through internet research and project work.
GCSE
At KS4 we offer the CCEA
Double Award GCSE syllabus. The Biology component of Double Award Science is
examined by means of two separate papers, each lasting one hour. There is also
assessment of practical skills through controlled assessment.
Unit 1: Living Processes and Biodiversity.
Unit 2: Body Systems, Genetics, Micro-organisms and Health
Unit 3: Practical Skills - Controlled Assessment
A-Level
At A level, the CCEA
specification is followed. Students may take just one year of the course and
gain an AS level qualification or continue and do a second year to gain an A
level (AS + A2). Students must obtain at least a Grade C at AS level to
proceed to A2 level.
The course is made up as follows:
AS Biology – 3 written exams and internal practical assessment.
|
Content |
Assessment |
Weightings |
|
AS 1: Molecules and Cells |
External written exam. 1 hour 30 minutes. |
37.5% of AS (15% of total A-level) |
|
AS 2: Organisms and their Environment |
External written exam. 1 hour 30 minutes. |
37.5% of AS (15% of total A-level) |
|
AS 3: Practical Skills |
External written exam. 1 hour and internal practical assessment . |
25% of AS level (10% of total A-level) |
A2 Biology – 3 written exams and internal practical assessment
|
Content |
Assessment |
Weightings |
|
A2 1: Physiology, Coordination and Control, and Ecosystems |
External written exam. 2 hours 15 minutes.
|
24% of A-level |
|
AS22: Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends |
External written exam. 2 hours 15 minutes. |
24% of A-level |
|
A2 3: Practical Skills |
External written exam. 1 hour 15 minutes and internal practical assessment. |
12% of A-level |
FACILITIES
We have three fully
equipped Biology laboratories with interactive whiteboards and the help of a
Biology technician.
After school revision classes are run prior to public examinations.
TEACHERS
Mrs A O'Hara (HOD) BSc. Hons P.G.C.E
Miss S McCaw BSc. Hons P.G.C.E. MEd.
Mr G McCorley B.Ed
TECHNICIAN
Mrs K Preston BSc. Hons