Biology

Why study Biology?

Are you interested in the workings of living things?  What impact do we humans have on the planet?  What are micro-organisms?

Biology is the science of living things.  With the wealth of plants, animals and other species that surround us, it is a broad science and one that is full of intriguing and interesting observations.

In this GCSE Biology course, you will look at the building blocks of life, and find out just what makes us live and develop.  You will investigate the role of humans in the environment and delve into the ways our bodies work to stay healthy and the things we do to hamper this.  The development of species will also be covered, as well as the importance of habitat in their evolution and survival.

In addition, you will look at genes and hereditary traits and the ways our bodies cope with disease and waste.  You will also learn about micro-organisms, their role in health and food production and the issues surrounding their safe usage.

Course outline

The duration of the course is 12 months and students will follow the Edexcel IGCSE specification which covers five exciting topics:-

1. The nature and variety of living organisms
2. Structures and functions in living organisms – including cells, plant and animal nutrition, effects of smoking and the nervous system.
3. Reproduction and inheritance
4. Ecology and the environment
5. Use of biological resources – including cloning and genetic modification.

Students will acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles and appreciate the importance of accurate experimental work, scientific method and reporting.  Students will learn to form hypotheses and design experiments to test them as well as evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of scientific and technological developments, including those related to social, environmental and economic issues.

These principles of Biology will be taught through a dynamic mix of theoretical and practical studies.

How is it assessed?

The course is assessed by two examination papers comprising short and long answer questions:

• Biology Paper 1: Two hours (66.7% of the total marks)
• Biology Paper 2: One hour (33.3% of the total marks)

This course is a single tier assessment and there is no coursework although both papers will assess practical investigative skills.

University courses/related careers

Biology GCSE is highly sought-after by employers as scientific competence is not only practically useful but also indicates a sound ability to think logically and manipulate data and deal with abstract concepts and novel situations.  Apart from academic research, scientific subjects are vital in careers such as healthcare, computer-related industries, education and engineering.

This qualification supports progression to:

• Edexcel GCE Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level Biology
• Edexcel Level 3 BTEC National Award/Certificate/Diploma in Applied Science

Reading list

Books recommended for IGCSE Biology course:-

• Edexcel IGCSE Biology: Phil Bradfield, Steve Potter (Pearson)
• IGCSE Biology for Edexcel:  Jackie Clegg, Gareth Price and Mike Smith (Collins)