Biology (Gorseinon)

Course Overview

Duration:Two years | Qualification: A Level | Level: Level 3

Delivery

The course offers significant opportunities to engage in practical applications of the theory.

After learning the basic principles, learners progress to more detailed study of physiology and cellular systems, genetics, evolution and reproduction. There is an emphasis on laboratory experimentation in the Autumn term culminating in a piece of assessed coursework work that is carried out in the laboratory.

Students are taught by two lecturers and there is internal assessment of progress in different skill areas during the course. There are mock exams carried out at Christmas and Easter.

Regular practice of examination questions is a feature of the course. Homework is carried out on a weekly basis.

In the summer term, the A2 course will begin with the focus on ecology and the environment giving students a chance to participate in outdoor and field work.

In the second year, a broader range of physiology and wider applications of genetics, microbiology and ecology are studied in greater depth.

Requirements

In addition to the prerequisite qualifications for entry to A Level courses (which include Maths and English at grade C), grade B or above in GCSE Science double or triple award is strongly recommended - an interview may be required if these grades are not met.

Grade B or above in English and Maths is an advantage and a reasonable standard of literacy and numeracy is required.  The ability to organise your time and paperwork would be helpful.

Progression

Many students use this subject as a platform for entry into medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.

Other degree courses that are available to biology students include pharmacy, biomedical sciences, radiography, optometry, nursing and many other health related careers.

Biological science degrees can lead to a career in research, genetics, forensics and public health. There are many environmental degree courses on offer. Some students combine biology with other subjects in order to study psychology, law or
journalism.

Additional Information

Students are expected to participate in field work. Typically, this involves studying several habitats on the Gower Peninsular and an opportunity to consider management and conservation in habitats such as wetlands.

Some students have been able to participate in the Wales Gene Parc Conferences for sixth form students in Cardiff.

Each year, students are given the opportunity in their A2 year to enter the British Biology Olympiad. The college has had increasing success in this national competition with several candidates achieving a top level award.

Students have the option to buy WJEC course note books. There is normally a charge for transport to external venues, eg field trips.