BIOLOGY

Subject Department: BIOLOGY

Examination Board: EDEXCEL

AS Code: 8040 A2 Code: 9040

Introduction
Biology is everything to do with living organisms: their variety, how they live in their habitats, their processes and the effect they have on each other and on humans. It is a huge subject because of the sheer number of different types of organism, ranging from microbes (viruses, bacteria etc) to the vast array of animals and plants which exist. Also, our knowledge of biological processes is expanding and so there are many different branches of biology which are being pursued: Immunology, Biochemistry and Genetic Engineering, to name but a few.

The beauty of the subject is that, often, we can see it all around us. We also have a natural desire to learn about ourselves. Little wonder then, that over time, people have tried to explain biological phenomena. Why do offspring both resemble and differ from their parents? How does disease spread and how might we control it? Why do we have blood and how does it keep circulating around the body? What are the best conditions for plant growth so that crops may be produced efficiently?

Why Study Biology?
A knowledge of basic biology is essential, not just for exam success, but as a requisite for life. We need to understand how our bodies function and to be able to recognise signs when something is amiss. We should understand the importance of a good diet and know how to keep healthy. We need to appreciate aspects of hygiene and how disease may be spread and avoided. We must acknowledge the fact that we share our planet with other plants and animals and that there is a delicate balance between us all. Plants underpin the rest of life by providing the correct balance of gases in our atmosphere and by providing food directly or indirectly for other animals.

Modern biology is far-removed from the old days of "nature-study", worthy though that was. Today's students are grappling with demanding aspects of biochemistry, molecular genetics and physiology. An understanding of the subject provides the basis for medical and veterinary sciences, agriculture and the pharmaceutical, food and brewing industries.

There are countless examples of how biological research has benefited society, whether it be IVF techniques allowing a childless couple to become parents, or the development of disease resistant crops. Biological innovations, such as getting bacteria to produce human insulin for diabetics, would have astounded past generations; the future is bright for biological developments in years to come!

Aims of the Course
The AS/A2 specifications aim to:

	promote an appreciation of the importance of experimental and investigatory work in the study of biology and develop an understanding of the link between theory and experiment and of scientific methods;
	develop essential knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles together with an appreciation of their significance;
	sustain and develop an enjoyment of and interest in, the study of living organisms;
	recognise the value and responsible use of biology in society;
	be a suitable preparation for biological studies in higher and other educational establishments and for professional courses, which require students to have knowledge of biology when admitted.

Prior Level of Attainment
It is expected that all students will have studied either Dual Award Science or Biology GCSE, obtaining at least BB or B grades. In the past, students who have achieved A grades have tended to cope better with the demands of the course.

Course Content Summary - Advanced Subsidiary (AS)

Unit 1: Molecules and Cells

	Cells and organelles
	Biological molecules
	Enzymes
	Genetic code

Unit 2: Exchange, Transport and Reproduction

	Gas exchange in plants and animals
	Transport in plants and animals
	Sexual reproduction in plants and animals
	Placenta development and birth in humans

Unit 3 Energy in the Environment

Part a

	Modes of nutrition
	Energy flow through ecosystems
	Energy resources
	Human influences on environment

Part b

On individual investigation, teacher-assessed Advanced (A Level)

Course Content Summary - A2 level

Unit 4 Respiration and Co-ordination

	Respiration in living organisms
	Co-ordination in living organisms
	Human health and fitness (option)

Unit 5 Genetics, Evolution and Bio-diversity

	Photosynthesis
	Patterns of inheritance
	Continuity of species
	Applications of gene technology

Unit 6 Synoptic and Practical Assessment

Part a
Written test on experimental considerations

Part b
Synoptic paper

Schemes of Assessment
The scheme has a modular structure with examination sessions in January and June.

The synoptic paper will require candidates to bring together their knowledge and understanding of the connections between different elements of the subject.

Links to Careers/Employment/Higher Education
The study of Biology at this level obviously leads to a wide variety of careers including medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, physiotherapy etc. It also allows students to further their knowledge in biological or environmental courses at degree level. It is advisable to study Chemistry at AS and A2 if Biology is to be taken further. However in the past, many students have found Biology to be a useful complementary subject with Geography, Psychology and many others! If you have an interest in living organisms and not afraid of hard work, Biology is worth considering!

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