Human Biology - A Level

Human Biology is concerned with a molecular and cellular analysis of the structure and function of the human body and brain. The A Level syllabus covers a broad range of topic areas, from physiology and DNA to disease epidemiology and ecology. Apart from a biological analysis of humans, the A Level course 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 on this course?

AS Units 1, 2 & 3
Molecules, Blood & Gas Exchange: The course begins with an examination of the composition and function of blood and the processes that prevent excessive blood loss. You will study the structure and function of relevant biological molecules and the various mechanisms used to transport these molecules into and out of cells.

Growth, Development & Disease: You will study the developing cell from division to differentiation, and then examine abnormalities such as tumour formation and growth. A comparison will be made between normal and abnormal cell development and the interaction of genetic and environmental factors in initiating diseases such as TB, HIV/AIDS, diabetes and lung disease.

Practical and Investigative Skills: This unit assesses topics studied in units 1 & 2 and requires you to learn skills necessary to carry out qualitative, quantitative and evaluative tasks. The unit is internally assessed and externally moderated.

A2 Units 4, 5 & 6
Energy, Reproduction & Populations: The A2 begins by examining the need for energy as ATP and methods of improving athletic performance. You will then examine human reproduction, from fertility and contraception to assisted reproduction technologies such as IVF. Lastly, you will study photosynthesis, farming and food production, and the impact of human populations and human activity on the environment and biodiversity.

Genetics, Control & Ageing: In this module, the fundamental principles of heredity are considered in relation to inheritance of genetic diseases. You will examine genetic techniques used in the Human Genome Project, the use of genetic counsellors, and ethical issues that have arisen as a result of newly gained knowledge concerning the relationship between genes, illness and heritability. You will also study the nervous system and the effect of ageing on the reproductive, nervous, skeletal, and cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Extended Investigation: Candidates are required to carry out an internally assessed investigation testing practical skills acquired during the A Level.

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 Human 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 a grade B or better at GCSE.

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.

Which subjects complement Human Biology?

Human Biology makes an ideal companion to other core sciences such as Chemistry and Physics. Elements of the course relate and are relevant to Geography, Psychology and Environmental Science.

Which careers can Human Biology lead to?

Human Biology is important for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science, and for other biologically related courses such as Optometry, Pharmacy or Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Forensic Science and Osteopathy.