AS/A Level Biology

Key Details

Available at:
Llangefni, Rhos-on-Sea, Pwllheli, Rhyl, Dolgellau
Study Mode:
Full-time
Course Length:
1-2 years

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AS/A Level Biology

School Leavers

Dolgellau

Llangefni

Pwllheli

Rhos-on-Sea

Rhyl

Applying for more than one A Level?

You can apply from this page and you will have the opportunity to add your additional A Level subjects at the end of the application process. You can find the A Level subject grid to make your choices on our main A Level page.

Please note: We recommend that you have access to a laptop or Chromebook to enable coursework to be completed digitally at home. There is a dedicated IT Digital Inclusion fund to support those learners who do not have a digital device and are unable to purchase one.

Course Description

Would you like to develop your scientific skills at an advanced level? This course develops your understanding of biology, through both theoretical and practical learning. It provides a valuable preparation for Higher Education, and for careers in science or health related areas.

The course is suitable if you are a committed student and have achieved good Biology/Science grades at GCSE level. The course will enhance your interest in the subject and its wider applications, allowing you to excel.

The course can be taken as part of a full-time programme of study in conjunction with other AS subjects, or possibly with other Level 3 qualifications.

UNIT 1 (AS) BASIC BIOCHEMISTRY AND CELL ORGANISATION (Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes - 20% of qualification)

This unit includes the following topics:

Chemical elements are joined together to form biological compounds
Cell structure and organisation
Cell membranes and transport
Biological reactions are regulated by enzymes
Nucleic acids and their function
Genetic information is passed on to daughter cells

UNIT 2 (AS) BIODIVERSITY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF BODY SYSTEMS (Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes - 20 % of qualification)

This unit includes the following topics:

All organisms are linked through their evolutionary history
Adaptations for gas exchange
Adaptations for transport
Adaptations for nutrition

UNIT 3 (A2) ENERGY, HOMEOSTASIS AND THE ENVIRONMENT (Written examination: 2 hours - 25 % of qualification)

This unit includes the following topics:

Importance of ATP
Photosynthesis uses light energy to synthesise organic molecules
Respiration releases chemical energy in biological processes
Microbiology
Population size and ecosystems
Human impact on the environment
Homeostasis and the kidney
The nervous system

UNIT 4/5 (A2) VARIATION, INHERITANCE AND OPTIONS (Written examination: 2 hours - 25 % of qualification)

This unit includes the following topics:

Sexual reproduction in humans
Sexual reproduction in plants
Inheritance
Variation and evolution
Application of reproduction and genetics

Choice of one option from four:

A. Immunology and Disease B. Human Musculoskeletal Anatomy C. Neurobiology and Behaviour D. Food Science

OPTIONAL UNITS examined with unit 4 work. PRACTICAL EXAM at A2 only. 10% of qualification. PRACTICAL LAB-BOOK completed throughout the AS and A2 years.

Entry Criteria

Applying for A Levels? Click ‘Apply Now’ on any of the subjects you are interested in studying. You will be able to specify your other two A Level choices during the online application process.

The A Level subject grids for each campus can be found in the guides on the A Level section of the website.

In order to qualify for this course, you will need the following:

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English or Welsh 1st Language
GCSE Double Award Science grade BB or GCSE Biology grade B. GCSE Mathematics (Higher Tier) grade C or GCSE Numeracy grade B (Higher/Intermediate)

As part of the application process, you will be asked to attend an interview to give you the opportunity to discuss the course.

Progression to A Level is based on your performance at AS Level.

Delivery

This course is delivered as follows:

Group work
Classroom-based learning
Tutorial support
Educational visits
MOODLE (virtual learning environment)

Your programme will include a combination of:

Essential Skills qualifications and/or
GCSE resits and/or
The Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate is a valuable qualification which is often studied alongside your Level 3 full-time course.

The qualification is graded A*-E, carrying the equivalent UCAS points at Level 3, and equips you with transferable personal and business skills. It is highly regarded by universities and employers alike.

As part of the qualification, you will learn about Global Citizenship, Enterprise and Employability and take part in community engagement and work experience.

Essential Skills

This may include a combination of Application of Number, Communication, Digital Literacy and Essential Employability Skills

GCSE resits

This may include GCSE Numeracy/Maths and/or Welsh/English Language.

Maths & Welsh/English

If you don't achieve a C or above in Maths and/ or English/Welsh, we will support you to retake these subjects as part of your study programme.

Assessment

This course is assessed through examinations and a Practical Lab book which is completed during the two years of study.

For full details, please see the Additional Campus/Course information.

Progression

Whether you study the full A Level or just the AS Level, the course adds to your qualifications and helps you to progress. You will gain UCAS points and be able to apply for a range of Higher Education courses at many institutions, including Grŵp Llandrillo Menai.

If you choose to continue your studies in a related subject, you could apply for university courses in biological science, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, ecology, medicine, dentistry, nursing or physiotherapy. You could then progress into a career in the appropriate industry. Your studies on the A Level course will help you to make an informed choice from the options available.