A Level Biology provides a wide breadth of knowledge which touches on many varied aspects of a range of topics. These range from the internal workings of organisms in physiology and the interdependence of living things in ecology, to social issues including human influence on the environment and the ethical considerations of genetics.
The study of biology therefore encourages an appreciation of these issues and their implications as well as providing an insight into the living world.
The WJEC Biology course comprises of six modules, and includes the following:
AS Level Biology
|
Module |
Module Title |
When is the exam? |
|
BY1 |
Basic Biochemistry and Organisation |
January of Year 12 |
|
HB2 |
Biodiversity and Physiology and Body Systems |
June of Year 12 |
|
BY3 |
AS Practical Assessment |
Spring of Year 12 |
A Level Biology
|
Module |
Module Title |
When is the exam? |
|
BY4 |
Metabolism, Microbiology and Homeostasis |
January of Year 13 |
|
BY5 |
Environment, Genetics and Evolution |
June of Year 13 |
|
BY6 |
A2 Practical Assessment |
Spring of Year 13 |
In studying Biology at A Level, pupils are expected to become more independent, with less emphasis on note-taking and more on thinking and understanding. In order to succeed it is vital that pupils understand that they are required to spend a large proportion of their time learning the concepts and principles so that they can be easily recalled in exam conditions. An ‘open door’ approach is adopted by teaching staff whereby pupils should feel comfortable in asking questions, in or out of lesson time.Importantly, a ‘passive’ approach to learning is strictly forbidden!