Welcome to GCE Biology By the end of this course you will: • Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Biology and how they relate to each other • Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills • Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for Biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with Biology • Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society

GCE Biology Ellie Fanzo Lynne Cullingworth Lucy Hughes Caroline Morgan Belinda Barton Nikita Dunn Course requirements College entry requirements Grade ‘6’ in Mathematics GCSE and either grades ‘BBC’ in separate sciences (with one ‘B’ in Chemistry GCSE) or grades ‘AB’ in double award science. 2015/16 Department Performance 70% A* - C 100% A* - E

A Challenging facilitating subject but enjoyable and rewarding course A level Biology develops concepts that have been studied at GCSE in addition to introducing new topics Students achieving GCSE Science grade A*-B are most likely to achieve an A-level grade otherwise please seriously consider whether a BTEC course would be more appropriate Successful A-level students are self motivated, independent learners who take responsibility for their own learning. Grades A*-E

GCE Biology Commitment Community Consideration Toot Hill College The themes you will study... In Year 12 Biological molecules Cells Organisms exchange substances Genetic information, variation and relationships In Year 13 Energy transfers Organisms respond to changes Genetics, evolution and ecosystems The control of gene expression Commitment Community Consideration Please see above logos for all other exam boards to personalise for your course Toot Hill College

Topic 1 Biological molecules: The building blocks of life, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzyme action and DNA

Topic 2 Cells: Organelles, cell surface membrane, bacteria and fungi, microscopy, mitosis, cell transport, cells in the immune system

Topic 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment: Adaptations, gas exchange, digestion and absorption, blood and mass transport, xylem, phloem and mass transport.

Topic 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms: DNA, genes, chromosomes, protein synthesis, meiosis and mutations, biodiversity and species taxonomy.

Practical Endorsement Replacing old style coursework 6 assessed practical investigations per year (a lot more practice investigations) Assessed on ability to master practical skills such as using correct equipment, assessing risks, developing methods, adjusting techniques to ensure reliable data is collected and report writing. Pass or Fail at the end of year 13.

Field Trip Field Trip During year 12 ‘activities week’ (final week of the year). Ecology, statistics and taxonomy. Supports the A2 course.

Sometimes we are lucky enough to have glorious sunshine….

But most years you need your mac!

A2 Content Topic 5: Energy transfers in and between organisms (food webs and ecosystems) Topic 6: Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (homeostasis) Topic 7: Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems Topic 8: The control of gene expression

Commitment GCE Biology What skills are needed? Mathematical analysis skills (higher grade GCSE standard to begin) Essay writing skills Practical investigation skills Application skills to solve problems and investigate questions Expectations and workload 3 internal formal assessments completed per academic year 2 homework assignments completed per week High level of independent reading to support classroom learning An intrinsic interest in biological sciences

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