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Biology AS and A Level (CCEA)

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Key Stage 5

Biology is a challenging AS/A2 Level for those with an interest in the subject.

Students learn about the building blocks of life, living organisms, biological concepts and the value of biology in society.

Through studying A Level Biology, students develop communication, information technology, numeric and problem-solving skills. They learn how to work in teams and through designing and carrying out investigations they develop their ability to draw conclusions and make decisions. This approach helps students to develop a questioning mind, self-confidence and an ability to express opinions based on knowledge.

Aims of the Course

Studying biology encourages pupils to:

Widen essential knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
Develop an understanding of the scientific method, carryout practical tasks and present their findings in different formats.
Demonstrate a deeper appreciation of, and an understanding of, how science works.
Develop confidence in various skills, including independent learning, creative thinking, practical, mathematical and problem solving.
Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues.
Be aware of the advances in technology relevant to Biology.
Show knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.
Sustain and develop their enjoyment and interest in biology.

Course Content

The course is demanding with a focus on technical terminology, molecular structure and a great emphasis on the application of detailed knowledge and understanding. The CCEA specification is followed and includes Northern Ireland perspectives, particularly with respect to biodiversity strategies.

There are six assessment units, three units completed at AS Level and a further three at A2 Level. All modules require some mathematical/statistical knowledge, but more so at A2. Practical work is included in all modules and students also participate in a fieldtrip.

Course Outline

Unit	Topic	Assessment	Weighting
Unit	Topic	Assessment	AS	A Level
AS Unit 1	Molecules and Cells	External examination 1hr 30 minutes	37.5%	15%
AS Unit 2	Organisms and Biodiversity	External examination 1hr 30 minutes	37.5%	15%
AS Unit 3	Practical Skills in AS Biology	External examination 1hr 15 minutes Internal practical assessment	25%	10%
A2 Unit 1	Physiology, Co-ordination and Control, and Ecosystems	External examination 2hrs 15 minutes		24%
A2 Unit 2	Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends	External examination 2hrs 15 minutes		24%
A2 Unit 3	Practical Skills in Biology	External examination 1hr 15 minutes Internal practical assessment		12%

Career Opportunities

Biology is essential for many careers and courses in the Biological and Environmental Sciences. It is also highly recommended for careers in Medicine, Veterinary, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Microbiology, Research, Forensic Science, Clinical Science and many more.

The skills gained from studying Biology are transferable and will be beneficial in non-biological pathways.

Biologists Can:

Investigate
Ask questions
Think critically
Solve problems
Make decisions
Manage information
Analyse data
Interpret and evaluate evidence
Apply their understanding

Biologists are:

Logical
Inquisitive
Practical
Good communicators
Good team players
Observant
ICT literate
Numerate
Creative

Biology AS and A Level (CCEA)

Key Stage 5

Aims of the Course

Course Content

Course Outline

Career Opportunities

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