Biology - A Level

Biology is the science of life, examining the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution and distribution of living things. You will undertake an in depth study of a variety of topics ranging from the physiology of the human body to genetics, the structure and function of the brain to animal and plant ecology. The A Level course also allows you to explore and better understand issues affecting your environment and addresses topical concerns regarding healthy lifestyles and the prevention and treatment of disease. The study of biotechnology and genomes involves consideration of bioethical issues and debates, and an appreciation of the considerable potential biotechnology holds to improve the quality of human life via, for example, medical and pharmacological advances. 

What will I study in Biology?

AS Units 1, 2 and 3
Cell Exchange and Transport. What is the basic structure of cells and their organelles? What potential does stem cell technology have for modern medicine? How do gas exchange and transport mechanisms work in plants and animals? How do the lungs function and how does the heart beat? How are water and minerals delivered to the leaves of plants against gravity?
 
Molecules, Biodiversity, Food & Health. What is the basic structure of biological molecules such as nucleic acids that make up DNA? What is meant by a good diet and what is good health? How does the body defend itself against disease? What is ecology and how does it affect the biodiversity of organisms? What is speciation?
 
Practical and Investigative Skills. This unit teaches and assesses practical and investigative skills related to the topics studied in units 1 and 2. You will have the opportunity to carry out qualitative and quantitative practical research projects and experiments. 
 
A2 Units 4, 5 and 6
Communication, Homeostasis and Energy. How do organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment? How is diabetes treated? How does the nervous system work? How do the kidneys, lungs and liver work to remove waste material from the body? How do plants photosynthesise to provide energy and oxygen? How is the energy from plants transformed to produce energy for our own bodies?
 
Control, Genomes and Environment: How does DNA coding make proteins – the building blocks of life? Why do some organisms flourish whilst others become extinct? What are the practical applications of biotechnology? How do muscles contract? How does the human brain enable the learning of skills such as swimming or riding a bicycle?
 
Practical and Investigative Skills. Allows you to further develop practical and investigative skills related to topics covered in the A2 units and conduct practical research projects and experiments.

How will I be assessed?

The course is assessed by four examination papers comprising short and long answer questions – two in the AS year and two in the A2. 

Do I need to have studied Biology before?

You should have studied Biology at GCSE as part of a Double Award Science or separate Biology course. Ideally you should have achieved at least a B grade.

Who will teach me?

Dr Pantea Etessami has a BSc in Microbiology, MSc in Biochemistry and a PhD in Genetic Engineering. She has more than 15 years experience of research and teaching at university and schools. Pantea is passionate about Biology and has inspired many students to achieve excellent results. Pantea is also the Director of the Medical Programme and specialises in preparing students for Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and other science-related degrees.
 
Hannah Rosa is a graduate from Leeds University in Biology, with a PGCE from King's College, London and an M.Ed. She joined Lansdowne Science department in 2010 and brings with her a warm, unique and innovate style of teaching and a proven track record of examination success.

Which subjects complement Biology?

Biology is a core science subject, which makes an ideal companion to Chemistry and Physics. Biology is also highly relevant to Psychology, Geography and Environmental Science.

Which careers can Biology lead to?

Biology is a necessary qualification for careers in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Optometry, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Forensic Science, Osteopathy, etc.