A level Biology at Cambridge Mathematics School will cover a wide range of themes. You will begin by developing an appreciation of the complex and complementary biological processes taking place in every living cell that allow for effective gas exchange, energy transfer, transport and regulation of the internal environment.
As the biology curriculum broadens, you will learn to value the hugely significant role life sciences can play in improving the world.
You will consider the interdependence of organisms in ecosystems, the importance of biodiversity, communicable and non-communicable disease, genetics and the origin of the species.
As with all the sciences, biology is a practical subject and practical work will be at the heart of course, delivered in purpose built biology laboratories.
By studying biology alongside mathematics, you will be better prepared for further study, careers and research in biological sciences which often rely heavily on mathematical principles. Studying biology will improve your capacity to problem solve and analyse experimental data effectively.
The combination of knowledge and skills developed during the course will open the door to the many and varied opportunities life sciences have to offer in tomorrow’s world.
We follow the OCR A Biology (H420) specification.
Content is split into six teaching modules
- Module 1: Development of practical skills in Biology
- Module 2: Foundations of Biology
- Module 3: Exchange and transport
- Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease
- Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy
- Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
At CMS, Module 1 is covered throughout the course. At the beginning of Y12 students will cover Module 2 in depth allowing for them to move on to the rest of the course. Students will then go on to Module 3 content in the spring term. Here students link the necessity for, structure and functions of different transport and exchange systems in a range of organisms. In the summer term students will move on to Module 4 where they will explore the biodiversity of the natural world and the process of evolution.
In Y13 students will study Module 5 first, learning about the different responses in animals and plants as well as the biochemical process of photosynthesis and respiration. Following this Module 6 gives students the chance to learn about cutting edge techniques in research such as different types of sequencing. Students will also learn in depth about the role of Biology in sustainability.
Assessment
In June of Y13 students will sit 3 examinations in Biology.
- Paper 1: Biological processes (Module 1,2,3 and 5), 2 hours 15 minutes (37% of total A level)
- Paper 2: Biological diversity (Module 1,2,4 and 6), 2 hours 15 mins (37% of total A level)
- Paper 3: Unified Biology (All Modules), 1 hour 30 minutes (26% of total A level)
The A level course also requires students to pass a Practical Endorsement in Biology which is assessed by their teacher through a series of practical experiments. Students pass the endorsement by correctly demonstrating a variety of skills throughout the two-year course.
Super-Curricular Offer
Students will have the option of engaging with Biology beyond the curriculum with a variety of competitions and including Intermediate Biology Olympiad, British Biology Olympiad, Cambridge Biology Challenge and others. They will also have the opportunity to attend lectures by visiting speakers including mathematical biologist academics from the University of Cambridge and attend educational trips such as a schools day at the Babraham Research Institute, visits to the Botanic Garden and fieldwork days in the local area.
