Staff

Mrs K Butcher (Head Of Department)
Miss A King
Miss C Hughes
Ms Cathy McLaughlin

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3 Science is taught in three double periods per week. Under the Biology component of this curriculum the pupils will study the following units of work:- Microbes and Disease, Cells and Reproduction, Food and Digestion, Photosynthesis, Heart and Circulation and Respiration and the Breathing System. Pupils will have opportunities to apply scientific and technological ideas, to develop an understanding of how Biology shapes and influences the qualities of their lives. This course also concentrates on delivering valuable skills and capabilities that are developed through the science content. N.I revised curriculum

GCSE

All students must study either Double or Triple Award Science i.e. three separate sciences. In Biology the pupils will follow the CCEA specification and this is divided into 3 units.

Unit 1:
Cells, Living Processes and Biodiversity is assessed at the end of Year 11 and is worth 35%.

Unit 2: 
Body Systems, Genetics, Microorganisms and Health is assessed at the end of Year 12 and is worth 40%.

Unit 3 
This unit is worth 25% is controlled assessment of practical skills. This specification encourages students to be inspired, motivated and challenged. It encourages them to develop their curiosity about the living world and provides insight into and experience of how science works. It also enables students to engage with Biology in their everyday lives.

A Level

Students who select AS/A2 Biology will follow the CCEA specification.

The pupils are required to study 3 modules for AS:

• Molecules and Cells
• Organisms and Biodiversity
• Assessment of Practical Skills (coursework)

In A2 there are 3 further modules:

• Physiology and Ecosystems
• Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends
• Assessment of Investigational and Practical Skills in Biology

This course is designed to promote continuity, coherence and progression within the study of Biology. It also provides a basis for the further study, at tertiary level, of Biology and related courses. The course helps to provide an understanding of how biological developments affect the environment. It also contributes to an understanding of ethical and cultural issues, thus adding to a full and rounded education.

Extra Curricular

Pupils can avail of after school Biology revision classes for Key Stage 4 and 5. There is also a Science Club, where KS3 biology students have an opportunity to investigate different factors that affect the growth of vegetables.