LOG INSchool Leavers - Learning opportunities for the 16 to 19 age range
Prospectus: All subject areas › A Levels
Biology A & AS Level
LEVEL 3
Biology is for those who are interested in the way in which our bodies function in everyday life and the battle against disease.
What will I need?
5 GCSEs at grade A* - C including Mathematics and English and GCSE Double Science (Additional Science not Applied GCSE Science) at grade BB.
What will I do?
The course consists of two externally assessed modules in the first Year (AS), plus a unit assessed in college and two externally marked modules in the second year (A2) plus a unit assessed in college.
Year 1 (AS Level)
Unit 1 – Life, Transport, Genes and Health - You will study the structure and function of a number of molecules, including water, carbohydrates and Triglycerides. You will also learn how the cardiovascular system functions and how it is affected by diet and lifestyle. This unit also includes a study of the structure and properties of proteins, enzymes and the principles of genetic inheritance.
Unit 2 – Development, Plants and the Environment – You will learn about how the cell ultra structure relates to its function, cell division and cell aggregation. In addition you will learn about meiosis, formation of gametes and gene expression. You will also learn the importance of plant products to humans and species diversity.
Unit 3 – Centre assessed unit: You will plan, carry out and write up practical investigations that you will be assessed on. You will also be assessed on your practical skills during practical investigations. This unit will help students to develop excellent practical skills and analytical techniques.
Year 2 (A Level)
Unit 4 - The Natural Environment and Species Survival - You will study aspects of ecology and know the chemistry of how plants photosynthesise and the carbon and nitrogen cycles, global warming and sustainable development, natural selection and adaptation. You will also study infection and immunity including bacteria and viruses and how the body fights diseases and how some diseases are linked to lifestyle. DNA, the immune response and how hospitals are linked to acquired infections and ‘super-bugs’ and how they are being controlled are all fascinating topics of this module.
Unit 5 - Energy, Exercise and Coordination - You will study muscle function and the ways in which the body produces energy and the importance of homeostasis. The effect of sport on the body will be studied in depth as well as the ethical considerations regarding performance-enhancing substances. The second part of this unit looks at how plants respond and change to their environment and then moves to the mammalian nervous system. You will then apply this knowledge to diseases and the ethics of the Human Genome Project and genetically modified organisms.
Unit 6 - Practical Biology and Investigative Skills - Students add to the core assessed practical exercises carried out in the other units and will then produce their own investigative assignment.
How will I be taught?
Lessons and lectures are underpinned by tutorial support and seminar presentations, assignments, individual study, group discussion, projects and Interactive Learning Technologies (ILT). You will complete a number of practical experiments.
How will I be assessed?
Ongoing assessment of coursework, projects and formal examinations, some practical experiments will also be formally assessed.
Where will it take me?
Opportunities exist to follow a degree course in Biology, Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Psychology and Pharmacy. These are a small selection of courses with direct links to Biology.
You could also undertake an HND in Biological Science and related programmes. Employment possibilities exist in areas such as Health Sciences, Catering, Teaching, Sports Science and Biotechnology.
I'm really enjoying my course. I find the tutors helpful and encouraging and they have helped me to develop my skills and become more confident with my ideas. 
