Requirements Grade B at GCSE in Additional Science OR Biology C in English Language C in Maths on the Higher paper

Our results Summer % of students achieved a grade in A2 biology (45 students) 27 % achieved grade A or A* 67% achieved grade A*-C

Work load and help Usually 2 teachers; 1 for 3 hours (this may be split into a 1 hour) and 2 hour lessons and 1 for 2 hours per week We expect you to do approximately 2-3 hours of work per week out of school Internal assessment after every topic Class sites on the MLE with web links, power points and past questions Offer drop in sessions for help to all Are available for 1:1 assistance when needed We will contact parents if we have concerns

Text Books A text book can be bought in September (AS - £20/ A2 - £40) Revision guides at a discount price. (£5)

Specification at a glance Subject content 1.Biological molecules 2.Cells 3.Exchange 4.Genetics 5.Energy transfer 6.Responding to change (Homeostasis) 7.Population genetics 8.Control of gene expression AS : 2 exams units 1-4 on both papers 1 hour 30 mins each paper A-level : 3 exams, 2 hours each paper 1 units 1-4 paper 2 units 5-8 paper 3 units 1-8 including practical skills plus an essay.

Practical Skills A bigger emphasis on practical skills through the course. 12 mandatory practicals, which are teacher assessed. 15% of paper 3 for A-level will draw on the skills gained throughout the course. Students will be awarded a pass or fail for practical skills, a pass will be shown on their final certificate.

AS Required practical's

Mathematical skills and handling data At least 10% of the marks will require the use of mathematical skills and will be at least the standard of higher tier GCSE maths. Most of these will be in the first year. E.g. ratios, percentages, rearranging equations, rates, geometry.

What do our students think? By far my favourite subject. The most interesting subject to study at home. Teachers are supportive and always willing to help.

Specification Unit 1 Biological molecules Content; proteins, enzymes, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids (DNA, RNA), ATP, water, ions Unit 2 Cells Content; structure of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and viruses, magnification, transport across membranes, cell recognition immunity Unit 3 Exchange Content; gas exchange in insects, fish, mammals and plants, digestion, mass transport in plants and animals Unit 4 Genetics Content; DNA, chromosomes and genes, protein synthesis, meiosis, genetic diversity, taxonomy

Unit 5 Energy transfers Content; photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient cycles, energy in ecosystems Unit 6 Responding to changes Content; receptors, nerves, synapses, muscles, control of heart rate, blood glucose, kidney Unit 7 Population genetics Content; inheritance, evolution, ecology Unit 8 Control of gene expression Content; mutations, stem cells, epigenetics, cancer, genetic engineering, finger printing.