Biology is the scientific study of life. Its a natural science that deals with living organisms and their vital processes. Biologists study the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution and distribution of living organisms. Biology encompasses diverse fields, including botany, conservation, ecology, evolution, genetics, marine biology, medicine, microbiology, molecular biology, physiology, and zoology.
During the programme of study, students will develop a sense of exploration and investigation through covering a range of topics including; aspects of Human physiology, Biochemistry, Ecology, Botany, Cell organelles and Genetics. Additionally, students will acquire a valuable set of transferable skills; powers of analysis and evaluation, extended writing and advanced numeracy. These key concepts, fundamental to all aspects of Biology, underpin the complex contextual based learning developed throughout their secondary education. A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through specific disciplines. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, and all pupils should be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science.
In each unit, our aim is to foster a deep understanding of fundamental concepts in biology, ensuring students achieve fluency and accuracy in their knowledge. They will develop the ability to reason and apply b principles to solve increasingly complex problems. Beyond the subject itself, we strive to empower students with the skills to challenge injustice through data analysis, enabling them to drive positive change. At KS3, we focus on teaching a smaller number of concepts in greater depth, allowing for thorough comprehension and the development of versatile problem-solving skills, literacy and numeracy. Students will be challenged with thought-provoking questions and complex problem scenarios progressing to new topics.
In summary students will learn to;
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures.
Apply knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures;
in a theoretical context, in a practical context, when handling qualitative data & when handling quantitative data.
Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence, including in relation to issues, to; make judgements and reach conclusions & develop and refine practical design and procedures.
KS3 - Students will follow the National Curriculum for Science receiving 1 lesson a week (50 minutes teaching time). Lessons may involve teaching & learning of content, skills development, examination practice, laboratory investigations.
KS4 - Students follow the AQA Specification for GCSE Biology 8461 receiving 3 lessons a week (150 minutes teaching) or Combined Science 8464 (100 minutes a week. Lessons may involve teaching & learning of content, skills development, examination practice, laboratory investigations.
KS5 - Students follow the AQA Specification for A-level Biology 7402 receiving 6 lessons a week (300 minutes teaching). Lessons may involve teaching & learning of content, skills development, examination practice, and laboratory investigations that lead to the award of the Practical Endorsement.
| Subject Documents |
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| Biology Curriculum Overview 2023 |