GCSE Biology

Key Stage 4 GCSE Science

Specification: AQA

Biology helps us to understand living organisms, their interactions with each other, and the environment. Biology is a subject which stretches from tiny organelles inside cells to whole ecosystems and the millions of organisms they contain! It helps humans understand the causes of different diseases, how they spread and how they can be managed. The discovery of DNA unlocked a whole new field of biology called genetics, which has helped scientists understand how characteristics can be inherited. Our knowledge of living species and their habitats is vital in helping to protect them. In short, biology is so important (and so fascinating!) because it helps us to understand the interaction between humanity and the world.

The Key Stage 4 Science Curriculum Plan can be found at the bottom of the page.

Year 10 and Year 11

Year 10 and 11 students follow the new AQA GCSE specification. AQA 8461

Those following the Separate science route will complete 6 exams at the end of year 11 (2 Biology, 2 Chemistry and 2 Physics), each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes duration and will be taught by three subject specialist teachers. They will achieve 3 GCSEs, one per subject, each graded 1 - 9, where 9 is the best grade.

There is no coursework aspect of this course.  Instead, students will complete required practicals which are integrated within the scheme of the work. The content and skills covered in these practicals will be tested in the final written assessments.

Further information about these qualifications can be found on the AQA website http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse

For further details please contact Mrs Goswell