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 Last Revised: 22 Oct 04
AS & A2 Level Biology Print Page

Aims of the Course

The study of Biology at Advanced Level encourages students to further develop their interest in and enjoyment of the subject. The specifications for Biology have been developed for students who wish to continue with a study of the subject beyond GCSE. The Advanced Subsidiary (AS) course will broaden the curriculum and the extension of study for the second year of the Advanced course will prepare candidates to progress into further or higher education. The study of Biology should be seen as making a contribution towards life-long learning. It is important to realise that Biology is taught as both an academic and practical course. Social, economic, ethical, medical and technological aspects of Biology are incorporated into the delivery of the course.

The Biology course studied in the Sixth Form at St. Peter’s High School follows the OCR Specifications – Biology Advanced Subsidiary GCE: AS 3881 and Biology Advanced GCE: A 7881

Scheme of Assessment

The Biology course involves 3 modules and practical coursework for AS Level and a further 3 modules plus practical coursework for A2 level. Assessment is carried out during the course within school. The coursework is marked internally and moderated by the examinations board. The examination papers contain both structured questions and questions which require more extended answers. All examination questions are compulsory. One of the examination papers is a synoptic paper which requires candidates to draw together knowledge gained in the study of other modules.

 

AS Level Modules

Module 2801

Biology Foundation:

  • cell structure
  • biological molecules
  • enzymes
  • cell membranes and transport
  • genetic control of protein structure and function
  • nuclear division
  • energy and ecosystems

Module 2802

Human Health and Disease:

  • global patterns of disease
  • health statistics
  • diet
  • gaseous exchange and exercise
  • smoking and disease
  • infectious diseases
  • immunity

Module 2803

Transport and Experimental Skills 1:

  • mammalian transport
  • heart
  • transport in multi cellularplants

Coursework:an investigation based on theory in the course (Deadline: Easter)

January Exam 1hr
30% of AS & 15% of A2		 June Exam 1hr
30% of AS & 15% of A2		 June Exam 45m
20% of AS & 10% of A2

Coursework
20% of AS & 10% of A2

 

A2 Level Modules

Module 2804

Central Concepts:

  • energy and respiration
  • photosynthesis
  • populations and interaction
  • meiosis, genetics and gene control
  • classification, selection and evolution
  • control, co-ordination and homeostasis

Module 2805 / 05

Option in Biology-Mammalian Physiology and Behaviour:

  • mammalian nutrition
  • the liver
  • support and locomotion
  • the nervous system
  • sense organs and the reception of stimuli
  • behaviour

Module 2806

Unifying Concepts in Biology:

The content of this module is that of the whole specification, ie. the major themes of Biology as a subject. The examination is of a synoptic nature involving analysis, interpretation, evaluation and calculations.

Experimental Skills 2:

An investigation. The assessment demands an investigation of a higher level of sophistication than the coursework at AS level.

January Exam 1hr30m
15% of A2		 June Exam 1hr30m
15% of A2		 June Exam 1hr15m
10% of A2

Coursework: 10% of A2

 

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