Biology A-Level
OCR Biology - H021 H421
This course provides an opportunity to gain a sound understanding of Biology through the study of biological principles whilst exploring the modern applications of Biology. When studied to A Level it clearly provides an appropriate foundation for further study of Biology or related subjects in Higher Education. It has also proved to be a stimulating A Level for those wishing to study non-related disciplines at university, such as Law or English. It can lead to direct entry into employment, especially into the science and related sectors.
When taken to AS Level, it provides a worthwhile course for candidates from diverse backgrounds in terms of general education and lifelong learning. As such, it would form a valuable part of the post-16 curriculum.
Aims of the course
This course aims to:
- Sustain and develop an enjoyment of, and interest in, the study of living organisms.
- Recognise the value and responsible use of Biology in society.
- Promote an awareness of advances in technology, including IT, relevant to Biology in a changing world.
- Develop essential knowledge and understanding of biological concepts, and the skills needed for the use of these concepts in new and changing situations.
- To be a useful educational function for students not intending to study Biology at higher level.
- To be a suitable preparation for biological studies in higher educational establishments and for professional courses which require students to have knowledge of Biology when admitted.
Entry requirements
The qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed at GCSE. Students should achieve at least a grade 'A' in the GCSE Level Triple Science (or in Biology if the seperate Sciences are taken).
Students must be able to:
- Work independently.
- Recall facts.
- Communicate effectively.
- Select, organise and present relevant information clearly.
- Apply biological principles in unfamiliar situations.
- Assess the validity of information and experiments.
- Devise and plan appropriate experimental activities.
Who is this course suitable for?
- Those who have an interest in, and enjoyment of, Biology.
- Those who wish to use Biology to support other qualifications or to progress onto further studies, not necessarily related to Biology.
- Those who wish to follow a career in one of the many fascinating biologically related fields.
Biology and Key Skills
This AS and A Level course provides opportunities for developing and generating evidence for assessing the Key Skills listed below:
- Communication.
- Information Technology.
- Application of Number.
- Working with Others.
- Improving Own Learning and Performance.
- Problem Solving.
The broad and multi-disciplinary nature of Biology that calls upon candidates' abilities to demonstrate the transferability of their knowledge, understanding and skills makes it an ideal vehicle to assist candidates to develop their knowledge and understanding of Key Skills and to produce evidence of their application.
Course Structure, Content and Assessment
AS (H021)
| F211: Cells, Exchange and Transport | 1 hour written paper AS - 30% A2 -15% |
| F213: Molecules, diversity, Food and Health | 1 hour 45 minutes written paper AS - 50% A2 - 25% |
| F216: Practical Skills in Biology 1 |
Internal Assessment AS - 20% A2 - 10% |
A2 (H421)
| F214: Communication, Homeostasis and Energy | 1 hour written paper A2 - 15% |
| F215: Control, Genomes and Environment | 1 hour 45 minutes written paper A2 - 25% |
| F216: Practical Skills in Biology 2 |
Internal Assessment A2 - 10% |
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A2 (H421)