The Biology department carried out fieldwork in the autumn term with year 10 and year 13 pupils to investigate different environments.
• Year 10 spent a morning investigating plant distribution in two areas in Belvoir Forest.
• The year 13 field trip was to two seashores in the Ards Penninsula where pupils studied the distribution of different seaweeds and also measured limpet heights on the two shores. This was followed by a short visit to Scrabo to record plant distribution in a meadow area. The fieldtrip gives pupils an insight into ecological sampling techniques and the processing of fieldwork results. The weather conditions were favourable this year and every one returned to school without getting wet.
AS level Biology Year 13
Board - CCEA
The course is divided into 3 modules
Module 1 ( 40%) Molecules and Cells
• Molecules and enzymes
• DNA technology and viruses
• Cells and cell physiology
• Continuity of cells and tissues and organs
Module 2 ( 40%) Organisms and Biodiversity
• Exchange and transport in plants and animals
• Variety of life and adaptations of organisms
• Human impact on biodiversity
Module 3 (20%) Internal practical assessment
This comprises two investigations one based on fieldwork and one laboratory based.
A2 level Biology year 14
Board - CCEA
The course is divided into 3 modules
Module A2 1 ( 40%) Physiology and Ecosystems
• Homeostasis and immunity
• Coordination and control in plants and animals
• Ecosystems and communities
• Human impact on the environment
Module A2 2 (40%) Biochemistry, genetics and evolution
• Respiration and photosynthesis
• DNA and gene technology
• Inheritance patterns and genetic change
• Plant and animal kingdoms
Module A2 3 (20%) Internal practical assessment
This comprises planning implementing and reaching conclusions of one laboratory based investigation.
Study of this subject is
• Relevant to careers in medicine, veterinary, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, biochemistry, biological sciences, food science , genetics, microbiology, chemistry, physics, ecological studies, physics and physical education.
• It is specified as a minimum requirement for the study of medicine.
• A useful addition to broaden a mainly Arts based A level programme, giving some insight into the current use and developments in biology and genetics.
