Curriculum

IGCSE

The Edexcel International GCSE in Biology specification is assessed through two exams with no coursework. The course gives students the opportunity to:

• experience Biology within the context of their general education
• acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles
• acquire the skills needed to use them in new and changing situations
• appreciate the importance of accurate experimental work and reporting
• to apply science in real-life situations.

The specification is divided into five sections:

1. The nature and variety of living organisms
2. Structure and functions in living organisms
3. Reproduction and inheritance
4. Ecology and the environment
5. Use of biological resources

IGCSE Biology forms an ideal grounding in further study in Science.

A Level (Salters-Nuffield)

This is a linear qualification divided into eight topics, four taught in Year 6 and four in Year 7.

Topic 1: Lifestyle, health and risk
Topic 2: Genes and health
Topic 3: Voice of the genome
Topic 4: Biodiversity and natural resources
Topic 5: On the wild side
Topic 6: Infection, immunity and forensics
Topic 7: Run for your life
Topic 8: Grey matter

The AS exam consists of two papers and it is a stand-alone qualification. Marks achieved on AS papers do not form part of the final A level grade. The A level exam consists of three papers. All exam papers include assessment of mathematics and practical skills. Practical skills are assessed externally, through practical-based questions in the exam, but also by the teachers, based on core practical activities and reported alongside the A level grade.

The aims and objectives of the specification are to enable students:

• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Biology and how they relate to each other
• demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
• acquire competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
• develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
• develop understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.