Biology is the science of life and living organisms, derived from the Greek words "bios" meaning "life" and "logos" meaning "study". Biologists study living things, including their physical structures, chemical processes, physiological mechanisms, molecular interactions, life-cycle, adaptions and environment.
At GCSE level, Biology is either studied as separate subject or makes up a third of Combined Science. As a separate subject, Biology can be studied as Single Science and receive a full GCSE grade. In Combined Science, the extension topics in Physics, Chemistry and Biology are not taken and the exams in all three subjects lead to two GCSE grades, so it is sometimes referred to as Dual Award Science. If a student intends to study Biology at A level then it is best, though not essential, that they take Biology as a Single Science. Assessment is through written exam papers, typically 2 x two hour papers or 3 x 90 minute papers. There is no separate practical assessment or coursework, but questions will be set based on the core practical activities the students will have carried out for themselves.
For entry into A-Level Biology, many schools would want to see a grade 7 or higher at GCSE, otherwise a student may struggle to do well at A-Level. At A-Level the concepts and ideas studied for GCSE are built upon and taken further, along with some applications of Biology which may include ... A-Level Biology also involves a large amount of practical work. Assessment is typically three written papers, each around two hours long. A-Level Biology can give access to a wide range of University Courses and consequently related careers, such as Physics, Engineering, Astrophysics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Medicine, Biology, Chemistry, Sports Science and Pharmacy amongst others.
