Entry Requirements
- 5+ GCSEs at 9-4
- Grade 6 in mathematics and 5 in English Language
- Grade 7-7 in combined science or 7 in biology and one other science.
Qualification Aims and Objectives
The course develops students’ understanding of life and living systems while fostering scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical investigation. It encourages students to be knowledgeable, inquiring, and open-minded, and to appreciate the impact of science on society, the environment, and global challenges.
Objectives
- Develop a deep conceptual understanding of key biological principles and processes.
- Acquire and apply scientific knowledge, methods, and investigative techniques.
- Build practical and analytical skills through experimentation and collaborative work.
- Consider the ethical, environmental, economic, cultural, and social implications of biology.
- Prepare for further study and careers in medicine, health sciences, biomedical research, biotechnology, environmental science, and education.
Course Outline
The course is built around three pillars:
1. Approaches to learning
2. Nature of science
3. Skills in the study of biology
Syllabus Themes
Unity and Diversity: water, nucleic acids, diversity of organisms, classification, conservation of biodiversity
Form and Function: proteins, membranes and transport, gas exchange, enzymes and metabolism, populations and communities
Interaction and Interdependence: Ecology, energy transfer, human impacts, symbiosis and competition
Continuity and Change: DNA replication, inheritance, homeostasis, natural selection, climate change
Experimental Programme
- Practical Work
- Collaborative Sciences Project
- Scientific Investigation
Develops skills in exploring and designing, collecting and processing data, concluding and evaluating, supported by experimental techniques, technology, and mathematics.
Assessment (HL)
External (80%): Paper 1 – multiple-choice and data-based questions;
Paper 2 – data-based, short-answer, and extended-response questions
Internal (20%): Scientific Investigation – open-ended research project with
a written report (max 3,000 words)
Future courses and possible careers:
Medicine • Veterinary Science • Dentistry • Nursing • Physiotherapy • Pharmacology • Biomedical Science • Environmental Science • Genetics • Forensic Science • Marine Biology • Ecology • Teaching • Research • Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industries
IBCP: we recommend students study this alongside BTEC Sport or Health and Social Care and IB Psychology.
IBDP: you would take this as one of your HL subjects, fulfilling the Science requirement.