Biology

We follow the AQA syllabus, preparing the majority of our science pupils to take 'GCSE Biology' or as part of 'GCSE Science A' and 'GCSE Additional Science' (Double Award).

At present, the course is modular and the exams are split across year 10 and year 11, but this will change as of September 2012 when all GCSE exams must be sat terminally. There is no classic coursework component but there is a strong emphasis on understanding the process of science and hence there are a series of assessed InvestigativeSkills Assessments (ISA) throughout the course.

The GCSE course is split in to three modules: B1, B2 and B3. We feel that teaching them as distinct, unrelated pieces is not beneficial to the pupils in our care, so have devised our own order of teaching which allows pupils to study related topics at the same time. This helps pupils to make links between topics, improving their scientific thinking.

Fourth Form (Year 9)

The GCSE course starts in year 9. However, the aims are to give all year 9 pupils a taste of the study of biology and common grounding before advancing to more challenging topics in year 10.

We aim to provide a well-rounded understanding of central themes that underpin the study of biology such as cell structure, enzyme structure and function, the relationship of surface area to volume ratio and adaptation, and evolution.

The year is also used as an opportunity to develop many of the important skills associated with the creation of theories and models from empirical evidence and valid data analysis. As a result the year has a large practical component.

In conjunction with Geography we run an annual Field Trip for Fourth Form in the Michaelmas term. This focuses on Woodland Ecology and taxis in woodlice.

Lower Fifth (Year 10)

Pupils will find themselves setted based on their ability and performance in the Summer Exam from the Fourth Form. This allows groups to move at a pace which is appropriate to them.

This year will be the pupils' first taste of a GCSE exam, with pupils sitting B1 in June of this year. This exam is the main focus for the year, as developing exam technique, and ensuring solid understanding of new topics is vital.

Pupils study more challenging topics such as:

• The Human Body,
• Controlling internal conditions and responding to stimuli,
• Plants.

Pupils also complete their first ISA.

Upper Fifth (Year 11)

With exam results for every pupil, we reset across Science, allowing later developing Scientists to move into sets which challenge them appropriately. It also allows us to have smaller numbers in our lower sets, and provide the support weaker pupils need.

The practical, study and exam skills developed over the previous two years are further honed in the last year of GCSE. Pupils have two new exams to take this year; B2 in January and B3 in June, as well as the opportunity to retake their B1 exam in June.

The topics studied this year include:

• Plant Nutrition and Transport
• Enzymes,
• Genetics,
• Microbiology.

Pupils are also given further opportunities to improve their ISA mark, both in class and through clinic sessions.