A-LEVEL BIOLOGY

This course is aimed at students who wish to cover key biological theories and processes to further their knowledge from GCSE level science, perhaps with a view to progress on to university.

This course will suit you if you wish to have career or study a degree in a biological science and will enable you to get an introduction to more complex theory than you will have covered at GCSE as well as develop the necessary practical and analytical skills needed for further study.

You will study a wide range of key elements, such as human, animal and plant cells; biological molecules, genetics and ecology.

At the end of two years you will sit examinations, so you will need to acquire a thorough understanding of all the different topics you have studied. You will also benefit if you enjoy the intellectual challenge of the work.

CURRICULUM

Key Units

Year 1

  • Biological molecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, enzymes, nucleic acids)

  • Cells, cell structure and membranes

  • Transport (osmosis, diffusion, active transport) as well as plant transport

  • The cardiovascular system

  • The gas exchange system

You will also cover an ecology module and look at evolution and explain the immune response in infectious disease as well as look at non-infectious diseases such as coronary heart disease.

Year 2 

  • Nervous and hormonal control of systems
  • The biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis,
  • Excretion
  • Genetics and gene technology (cloning, and genetic engineering)
  • Ecology

Practical work features heavily on the course and you will complete a series of practicals to fulfil the practical endorsement aspect of the course.

What else will I gain? You will develop practical and investigative skills as well as numerical skills (10% of the Biology A Level). You will have the opportunity for group work developing communication skills as well as literacy – to interpret questions and provide logical answers.

*Please note that unit information is subject to change depending on examinations board. Please contact admissions@minhajcollege.ac.uk

Assessment

There will be exams at the end of two years (plus a compulsory practical endorsement portfolio which does not count to the final A-Level grade but is required to study any science related degree at University).

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

3 GCSEs at A* – C (Grade 4-9) PLUS a minimum of grade 4 in English Language and Maths.

MCM will consider alternative qualifications to GCSE’s and for mature students will consider work history as part of the entry requirement process. If you do not meet the above entry requirements please get in touch and we maybe able to help – admissions@minhajcollege.ac.uk.

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Many students who study science subjects at A-level progress to university to continue their studies in a variety of course areas. Biology could prepare you for a wide range of scientific careers/studies including:

  • Medicine
  • Veterinary Science
  • Genetics
  • Forensic Science
  • Ecology
  • Agriculture
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Pharmacology/Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Nursing
  • Medicine/Biomedical Sciences
  • Psychology
APPLY NOW INSTRUCTOR

Abdul Kaiyum
Head of Science