Examining Board: OCR
Course Overview:
OCR’s Biology A Level is a demanding and interesting course, with numerous references to contemporary issues. It was developed for students who wish to continue their study of Biology after GCSE, building on the knowledge gained from that, while adding considerable depth and breadth.
Textbooks, Revision Guides and CD-ROMS specifically designed to complement the OCR course will be available to purchase.
Course Structure:
Year 12 students take three mandatory units for the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) qualification, one of these assessing practical skills. For Year 13 students seeking an Advanced GCE award (A2), a further three mandatory units are studied. Again, one of these will assess practical skills.
A summary of the units is shown below:
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AS
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A2
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Cell Structure & Division
Exchange Surfaces
Transport in Animals & Plants
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Communication & Homeostasis
Excretion
Photosynthesis & Respiration
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Biological Molecules & Enzymes
Food & Health
Biodiversity & Evolution
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Biotechnology & Gene Technologies
Ecosystems & Sustainability
Plant & Animal Responses
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Practical skills
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Practical skills
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Curriculum links:
The Biology specification has useful overlaps with other subjects, especially Chemistry.
Career opportunities:
The course prepares students for higher education, to follow degree courses in Biology, one of the other sciences or environmentally-orientated subjects. Biology is also a wise choice for those considering careers in veterinary science, medicine and other healthcare fields.
Ms A Morgan BSc (Hons) PGCE
Mr C Baillie BSc (Hons) PGCE
Dr J Stone BSc (Hons) MEd PhD HDip Ed