| Overview | The aim of the course is to develop essential knowledge and understanding of the concepts of Biology, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations. Students will appreciate the contributions of Biology to society and the responsible use of scientific knowledge and evidence. The course also aims to sustain and develop the enjoyment of, and interest in, Biology. |
| Examination board | The Sixth Form Biology course at Queen Elizabeth’s follows the AQA specification. Full details of the specification and additional support materials can be accessed here. |
Unit 1 - Biology & Disease Examination to be taken in January of Year 12 | Topics to covered will include: - Causes of disease
- The digestive system as interface with environment
- Exchange with the environment
- Lung function and disease
- Heart function and disease
- Defence systems of the blood
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Unit 2 - The Variety of Living Organisms Examination to be taken in June of Year 12 | Topics to covered will include: - Why do organisms vary?
- The structure and function of DNA
- DNA and Genetic diversity
- Biochemical and cellular differences between organisms
- The cell cycle
- System organisation
- Factors affecting the adaptations of organisms
- Classification
- Evolution and Adaptation
- Measuring Biodiversity
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Unit 3 - Investigative & Practical Skills Examination to be taken in June of Year 12 | Topics to covered will include: - Changing and measuring variables
- Implementation skills
- Data processing skills
- Evaluative processes
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Unit 4 - Populations & The Environment Examination to be taken in January of Year 13 | Topics to covered will include: - Population dynamics
- ATP and photosynthesis
- Respiration
- Population Energy transfers in an ecosystem
- Recycling of molecules in the environment
- Communities
- Genetic variation
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Unit 5 - Control of Cells & Organisms Examination to be taken in June of Year 13 | Topics to covered will include: - Response to stimuli
- Chemical and electrical coordination
- Muscle contraction
- Homeostasis
- Feedback mechanisms
- Gene expression
- Cloning techniques
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Unit 6 - Investigative & Practical Skills Examination to be taken in June of Year 13 | Topics to covered will include: - Changing and measuring variables
- Implementation skills
- Data processing skills
- Evaluative processes
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| Course support & enrichment at QE | The department has an extensive library of textbooks available for students to sign-out and use. The range of textbooks covers GCSE (for reminding students of simpler concepts) through to elementary degree level. There are also revision booklets available for each module that can be signed out for a short period of time. Each year, a number of boys in Year 13 are selected to take the Advanced Extension Award in Biology. There is a wealth of opportunities to extend and support the curriculum on offer in the department. Year 13 boys take part annually in the prestigious Biology Olympiad examination organised by the Institute of Biology, where they regularly win gold and silver medals. Visits to attend external lectures are run on an annual basis. Boys are able to participate in the NIMR essay competition. Year 12 boys visit the National Institute for Medical Research to hear lectures on recent developments in medical research. Boys also apply to the NIMR for Nuffield bursary projects during their summer holidays, giving them the opportunity to do ground-breaking research with PhD scientists. Recent projects have included 'Investigating the roles of hhex gene and proxi gene in liver formation' and 'Cloning genes for inositol polyphosphate kinase using PCR'. |
| Progression from A-level Biology | Any biology-based degree or career is available including marine biology, physiotherapy, pharmaceuticals, pharmacy, medicine, dentistry and teaching. |
Recommended wider reading This is particularly relevant for those considering further study beyond A-level | - Biological Sciences Review
- New Scientist
- The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
- The Double Helix by James Watson
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