Biology

Here’s what our students have to say…

“With A Level Biology I’m able to build on the knowledge I gained at GCSE as some of the basic content is familiar but I really enjoy learning new things. I think that Biology is a way of learning about stuff that people wouldn’t normally think about – it’s fascinating because it goes into so much detail about the processes of different living things. What’s great about Biology, and all classes really, at RNC is that the class sizes are a lot smaller so it’s easier to understand things and if you do need help then the teachers can focus on you a lot more.” Emma Bains.

Qualification Level

AS Level (Level 3)

A Level (Level 3) plus Practical Endorsement

Duration of programme

1 year for AS Level

2 years for A Level

AS and A Level are separate qualifications but are taught alongside each other for the first year. This gives AS students the opportunity to switch to the full A Level if they are ready.

The Practical Endorsement is a separate qualification to the A Level and is assessed during lesson time. The investigation and practical work for the practical endorsement is spread over the 2 years.

Entry Requirements

You should have 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C (grade 4) or above; these should include science and maths. There will also be an internal assessment to ensure that you are working at the appropriate level.

However, your individual circumstances can be discussed at your Pre-Entry Assessment.

Course Information

The AS and A Level Year 1 for OCR Biology cover the same subject matter:

Module 1: Foundations in biology.

Module 2: Exchange and transport.

Module 3: Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system.

Module 4: Biodiversity.

In Year 2 (A Level only), the Year 1 subjects are reviewed and further modules are studied:

Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy.

Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems.

Teaching Methods

Students are taught in small groups; there is a mixture of discussion, group activities and written work, plus some active research. Students undertake lesson preparation tasks as well as ‘homework’ and exam practice. There are unit tests at the end of each topic area.

Some basic practical work, including microscope work, takes place at RNC, but for more in depth practical sessions, which include those required for the Practical Endorsement, we have use of a laboratory and lab technician at Hereford Sixth Form College.

All course materials are available for easy access on our virtual learning environment, Moodle. It is not expected that you will have had previous experience of using Moodle.

Assessment Methods

The assessment of the A Level in Biology consists of four components; three externally assessed exams and the Practical Endorsement, which is internally assessed and externally moderated.

The Practical Endorsement is reported separately from the overall grade issued for the A Level.

All students will be entered for the AS Level which consists of two exams at the end of Year 1.

A Level students will sit three exams at the end of their second year of study, these will cover all aspects of the 2 year programme.

Course Enrichment Opportunities

This year, the students have had the opportunity to go to an A Level Biology conference in London where one of the speakers is Lord Robert Winston. Students also have the opportunity to visit a local environmental centre to undertake some of the outdoor practical activities the course requires.

Progression Opportunities

Most A Level students go on to Higher Education, often studying Biology or other sciences.

Student timetables at RNC

We recognise that all of our learners are individuals, which is why no two students will have the same timetable. As well as each student’s core area(s) of study, they will have a mixture of ICT Skills, Orientation and Mobility, Independent Living Skills and/or Braille on their timetables, dependent on their individual needs, goals and objectives.