Explore the science of living organisms, understand the ever-changing field of genetic engineering and discover the issues affecting today’s world. You’ll develop your theoretical understanding, exploring a diverse range of topics from cellular structure and DNA through to evolution and ecosystems, using laboratory experiments and demonstrations. If you’re considering a science-based career, such as medicine, physiotherapy or pharmacy, biology is the perfect specialism. All topics will be assessed at the end of the second year by examination.
Units/Topics:
– Cell structure
– Biomols
– Nucleic acids
– Enzymes
– Membranes
– Cell division
– Exchange in animals
– Transport in animals
– Disease and immunity
– Biodiversity
– Classification and evolution
– Photosynthesis
– Respiration
– Commuincation through homeostasis
– Nervous control and brain structure
– Hormonal system and glands
– Muscles
– Kidneys and osmoregulation
– Fight or flight response
– Plant response
– Mutation
– Gene control
– Biotech
– Genetic crosses
– Evolution and genetic drift
– Artificial selection
– Ecosystems
– Populations
Work placement opportunities:
University laboratories, Eurofins, CPI, GSK, GlaxoSmithKline, NFU
Progressing to: Degree courses in biology, human biology, environmental science, physiotherapy, forensic science, medicine, nursing, dentistry, psychology and pharmacy or into employment
Aspirational careers: Microbiologist, pharmacologist, marine research, nanotechnology, academic research, ecologist, nature conservationist
5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English and maths with 2 GCSEs in science both at grade 6, maths grade 6 and English language grade 5
