Biology – Advanced Subsidiary (AS) GCE and Advanced (A2) GCE
< Back
Course Synopsis:
Biology cannot to be studied in isolation; it
should be related, in a wider sense, to the needs of people. Within Biology,
relevant and important aspects of modern life are stressed, including those
of a personal, social, Environmental, economic and technological nature.
Lessons are informative, skills-driven and challenging. The Subject Content
is divided into AS and A2, more information can be found at:
http://www.cie.org.uk/qualifications
|
Syllabus Summary |
|
Year 12 – AS Level (CIE) |
|
Section A – Cell structure:
Including cells and organelles; measuring cells; enzymes; chromosomes
and the genetic code; protein synthesis.
Section B – Biological Molecules:
Including the structure
and function of molecules of biological importance.
Section C – Enzymes:
Including the mode of action of
enzymes and factors which affect their activity.
Section D – Cell Membranes and Transport:
Including the structure of membranes and the movement of substances
into and out of cells.
Section E – Cell and Nuclear Division:
Including cell
division, chromosome behaviour during mitosis.
Section F – Genetic Control:
Including structure and
replication of DNA; role of DNA in protein synthesis.
Section G – Transport:
Including transport
system in plants and animals; structure and functioning of the
mammalian heart.
Section H – Gas Exchange:
Including the
respiratory system; smoking and smoking related diseases.
Section I – Infectious Diseases:
Including Cholera,
malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS; antibiotics. Section J – Immunity:
Including the immune system and vaccination.
Section K - Ecology:
Including levels of ecological organisation; energy flow through
ecosystems; recycling of nitrogen. |
|
Scheme of Assessment at AS |
|
Paper 1 -
consists of 40 multiple choice questions.
Paper 2 -
consists of structured questions.
Paper 3 -
This practical paper will consist of two approximately equal parts,
one of which will require the use
of a microscope.
All three papers are taken in one sitting. |
|
Year 13 – A2 Level (CIE) |
|
Section L – Energy and Respiration:
Including the
study of respiration; measuring respiration.
Section M – Photosynthesis:
Including the study of
photosynthesis.
Section N – Regulation and Control:
Including
homeostasis; excretion; nervous and hormonal communication;
communication in flowering plants; plant growth regulators.
Section O – Inherited change:
Including inheritance of
characteristics; genes and alleles; monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
Section P – Selection and Evolution:
Including natural
and artificial selection.
Section Q – Biodiversity and Conservation:
Including classification and conservation issues.
Section R – Gene Technology:
Including gene
technology; benefits/hazards of gene technology; DNA
sequencing/genetic fingerprinting; cystic fibrosis; genetic
screening/counselling.
Section S – Biotechnology:
Including the industrial
applications and growth of micro-organisms; penicillin; immobilization
of enzymes; monoclonal antibodies.
Section T – Crop Plants:
Including crop plant
reproduction; crop adaptations; methods to improve crops.
Section U – Aspects of Human Reproduction:
Including gametogenesis; role of female hormones; controlling human
reproduction. |
|
Scheme of Assessment at A2 |
|
Paper 4 -
consists of two sections. Section A: structured questions. Section B:
a free-response question, presented in an either/or form.
Paper 5 -consists
of questions based on the practical skills of planning, analysis,
including the use of statistical tests and evaluation.
Both papers are taken in one sitting. |
|
Entry Requirements:
Pupils opting for AS level Biology should have secured a “B” grade
pass at IGCSE Biology or IGCSE Double Award Science. |