A Level Biology at Ousedale School

The course aims to develop essential knowledge, principles and concepts that exist within all levels of life, from the cellular to the whole organism. This coincides with an awareness of the developments in technology, such as genetic engineering and the Human Genome Project, as well as its implications within society.

Biology is essentially a practical subject. Students are expected to learn through discussion, research and answering questions both as an individual and in small groups.

Ecological and field studies enable students to learn directly important techniques in order to survey the local environment. This also gives students a chance to accomplish aspects of coursework as well as independent work. We also have students who return to the department who are currently following Biological courses to tutor and illustrate new developments to the students. Dissections are carried out, but these are not compulsory, so those students with strong objections to animal dissection may still study the course.

The course is an intellectually stimulating, yet demanding one. It expects a high level of motivation and self-discipline, plus the ability to work independently. Homework is set regularly in the form of experimental reports, research, essays, self-study units and exam questions.

In the AS, 2 modules are examined as well as coursework (30% of total AS).

In the A2, 3 units are assessed as well as coursework (10% of A2).