Biology AS and A Level

Please make sure you have checked the entry requirements before submitting your application. Please also be aware that we use an Attainment 8 requirement for students choosing to do Science and Maths subjects. This is explained further on our website: https://www.taptonschool.co.uk/page/?title=Subjects&pid=69

We will use the message function to contact you about your application, so please keep an eye on this.

Biology is the study of living things and life processes. In A level Biology you will look in detail at the functions of cells, organ systems, organisms, populations and ecosystems. Starting with the biological molecules that make up living things, you will explore the delicate balance needed for a healthy, functioning body and the interaction of diverse species in ecological settings.

You need to be passionate about science; inquisitive, analytical and inspired by the living world. You must be willing to work hard and give time outside of lessons to deepen your understanding. You should have good practical skills and the ability to analyse data to spot trends and give explanations.

Links with other subjects

Good ability in Chemistry is highly desirable. Biology also complements subjects such as Psychology and Sports Studies. Maths skills to a high GCSE grade are essential. A level Biology can be studied in combination with any other subject. If you are interested, you can do it.

AS Level:

Biological molecules - Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids. Enzymes. DNA replication. ATP.

Cells - Structure of eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic cells and viruses. Microscopy. Transport across cell membranes. The immune system.

Exchange in living organisms - Surface area to volume ratio. Gas exchange. Digestion and absorption. Blood and circulation. Transport in plants.

Genes and variation - DNA and genes. Protein synthesis. Genetic diversity and adaptation. Species and taxonomy. Species diversity.

A Level:

Energy transfers - Photosynthesis, respiration, energy in ecosystems, nutrient cycles.

Coordination and control - Detecting stimuli, nervous coordination, muscle contraction, homeostasis.

Genetics and populations - Inheritance, population genetics, evolution, speciation, ecosystems.

Gene Technology - Regulation of gene expression, cancer, genetic modification, genetic fingerprinting, diagnosis of genetic diseases.

Enrichment opportunities

Motor Neurone Disease research project (practical laboratory research)

STEM diploma

Seminar Series – Higher education speakers

Journal Club – developing academic literacy and data analysis.

AS Examinations:

Paper 1: 2 hour written paper, 91 marks, 35% of A level.

Paper 2: 2 hour written paper, 91 marks, 35% of A level.

A Level Examinations:

Paper 1 and 2 are taken as well as:

Paper 3: 2 hour written paper, 78 marks, 30% of A level.

Specific entry requirements for Biology - 6-6 in Combined Science or a 6 in Biology and a 6 in another science, and a 6 in Maths.

Tapton School's minimum entry requirements for all students: Grade 5 in English Language; Grade 4 in Mathematics and three other GCSEs at grade 4 and above.

Check your Attainment 8 if you are intending to study Science and Maths

At Tapton we add another level to our entry requirements, solely for the Sciences and Maths. We have found that historically, there is a link between how a student performs in these subjects and the average point score that they received for their GCSEs. Therefore, as well as achieving the individual entry requirements for each subject, the following conditions apply:

• To study all 3 Sciences and Maths, you need an Attainment 8 of 70 (equivalent to all 7s and above)

• To study 3 Sciences or 2 Sciences and Maths, you need an Attainment 8 of 64 (equivalent to mainly 7s and some 6s)

• To study 2 Sciences or 1 Science and Maths, you need an Attainment 8 of 55 (equivalent to mainly 5s with some 6s).

Universities in the UK offer a wide range of biological degree courses. Many lead directly to employment, e.g. Veterinary Science, Pharmacology, Medicine, Dentistry, Food and Nutrition. Areas such as Biotechnology, Microbiology, Genetics and Environmental Science are becoming increasingly important in society. A biological degree may lead to jobs in research laboratories, medical diagnosis, ecological fieldwork, patient treatment, teaching, business and sales. Some degree courses in medical fields have tuition fees paid by the Department of Health. If your future career lies outside of science, studying A Level Biology might help you to develop useful skills and ways of thinking.