Sixth Form Course Booklet 2013 - Bromsgrove School

Topic 4:
Topic 5:
Topic 6:
Topic 7:
Topic 8:
Biodiversity and Natural Resources
This looks at the ways in which plants have overcome the problem of being anchored to one
place, and how man has exploited the ingenuity of plants. Plant cell structure, cellulose
biochemistry and the role of the xylem in support and transport are covered.
On the Wild Side.
This topic builds an appreciation that photosynthesis is the primary process that underpins the
majority of ecosystems. The topic continues by looking at whether climate change will lead to
extinction of species, or evolution by natural selection, and looks at the evidence for global
warming and its effects on plants and animals.
Infection, Immunity and Forensics.
This topic explores the techniques used by forensic pathologists to determine the cause of death
of organisms, including humans, and investigates the battles that are taking place between
invading pathogens and their hosts.
Run for your Life
This topic is centred on the physiological adaptations that enable humans, particularly sports
people, and other animals to undertake strenuous exercise. It links homeostasis, muscle
physiology and performance and summarises respiration biochemistry. It looks at medical
technology and how it enables more people to participate in sport, as well as the ethical
positions with respect to the use of drugs by athletes.
Grey Matter
This topic begins by considering how plants detect and respond to changes in their environment.
It progresses to demonstrate how an understanding of brain structure and functioning is
relevant to such issues as the response to stimuli, and the development of vision and learning.
Ethical debate about the use of animals for medical research is required in this topic.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
AS: Unit 1 (June): Written examination on Topics 1 and 2 (1½ hrs)
Unit 2 (June): Written examination on Topics 3 and 4 (1½ hrs)
Unit 3 (June): Visit/Issue report
A2: Unit 4 (June): Written examination on Topics 5 and 6 (1½ hrs)
Unit 5 (June): Written examination on Topics 7 and 8 (1¾ hrs)
Unit 6 (June): Experimental investigation report
APPROPRIATE SUBJECTS TO ACCOMPANY BIOLOGY
Biology will match well with a wide range of subjects at A level, ranging from the obvious scientific combinations of
chemistry and physics to the humanities, languages and business studies.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Biology is relevant to careers in medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing physiology,
genetic engineering, marine biology, fisheries and environmental science to mention just a few. The new Edexcel
biology course is excellent currency in meeting the requirements of these university courses just as any other
traditional A level biology course would.
For more information contact Dr A S Woollhead
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