A-level Biology

A Level Biology (OCR)

Aims

To encourage learners to:

develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills
develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
understand how society makes decision about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society (as exemplified in ‘How Science Works’ (HSW)).

Overview

Content Overview	Assessment Overview
Content is split into six teaching modules: Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology Practical skills assessed in a written examination Practical skills assesses in the practical endorsement Module 2 – Foundations in biology Cell structure Biological molecules Nucleotides and nucleic acids Enzymes Biological membranes Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation Module 3 – Exchange and transport Exchange surfaces Transport in animals Transport in plants Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system Biodiversity Classification and evolution Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy Communication and homeostasis Excretion as an example of homeostatic control Neuronal communication Hormonal communication Plant and animal responses Photosynthesis Respiration Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Cellular control Patterns of inheritance Manipulating genomes Cloning and biotechnology Ecosystems Populations and sustainability. Component 01 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Component 02 assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Component 03 assesses content from all modules (1 to 6).	Biological processes (01) 100 marks 2 hour 15 minutes written paper	37% of total A level
	Biological diversity (02) 100 marks 2 hour 15 minutes written paper	37% of total A level
	Unified biology (02) 70 marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper	26% of total A level
	Practical Endorsement in biology (04) (non exam assessment)	Reported separately

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Central Office

Bexley

Bromley

Croydon

Greenwich

Haringey

Merton

Newham

Southwark

Sutton

Thurrock

Wandsworth

Westminster

A-level Biology

Sixth Form

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