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By Phone: +357 22799397 By Email: careers.office@englishschool.ac.cyCurriculum
Key subject aims
The Edexcel International GCSE in Biology enables students to:
- learn about the unifying patterns and themes of biology
- acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles and the skills needed to use them in new and changing situations
- appreciate the practical nature of biology, developing experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques
- appreciate the importance of accurate experimental work and reporting as scientific methods
- sustain and develop an enjoyment of, and interest in, the study of living organisms
- evaluate, in terms of their biological knowledge and understanding, the benefits and drawbacks of real-life applications of science, including their everyday, industrial and environmental aspects
- select, organise and present information clearly and logically, using appropriate scientific terms and conventions
- prepare for more advanced courses in biology and for other courses which require them to have a knowledge of biology.
Key features and benefits of the specification
Key features and benefits of the specification are:
- it includes aspects of science appropriate for the 21st century
- Straightforward linear assessment
- assessment of experimental skills through the examination paper
- it provides a sound foundation for progression to Edexcel GCE Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced Level in Biology, and other comparable post-16 qualifications.
Aims
The aims of the International Advanced Level in Biology enable students to:
- develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology including developing an interest in further study and careers in the subject
- appreciate how society makes decisions about biology-related issues and how biology contributes to the success of the economy and society
- develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works
- develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.
IAS/IA2 knowledge and understanding The International Advanced Level qualifications in Biology require students to:
- recognise, recall and show understanding of scientific knowledge
- select, organise and communicate relevant information in a variety of forms
- analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and processes
- apply scientific knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations
- assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information.
IAS/IA2 practical Biology and investigative skills
The International Advanced Level qualifications in Biology require students to:
- use theories, models and ideas to develop and modify scientific explanations
- use knowledge and understanding to pose scientific questions, define scientific problems, present scientific arguments and scientific ideas
- use appropriate methodology, including ICT, to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems
- carry out experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management, in a range of contexts
- analyse and interpret data to provide evidence, recognising correlations and causal relationships
- evaluate methodology, evidence and data, and resolve conflicting evidence
- appreciate the tentative nature of scientific knowledge
- communicate information and ideas in appropriate ways using appropriate terminology
- consider applications and implications of science and appreciate their associated benefits and risks
- consider ethical issues in the treatment of humans, other organisms and the environment
- appreciate the role of the scientific community in validating new knowledge and ensuring integrity
- appreciate the ways in which science is used to inform decision making about issues to benefit society.
