Head Of Department: Mrs A. Stangroom.

Staff members: Ms B. Chiponda, Mrs B. Dean, Mr F. Mugoni, Mr N. Chikwasha (Lab Technician)

IGCSE

Students begin their two-year IGCSE Biology course in Form 3 (Year 10). There are five lessons per cycle in one of the three well-equipped laboratories; lessons include as much practical work as possible. Students are introduced to microscope work and basic skills for using equipment to measure, record data, analyse, and interpret results. They are given an understanding of the scientific method and how it may be limited or improved.

The Cambridge Biology syllabus is designed to provide flexibility for both teachers and candidates; it emphasises understanding and applying scientific concepts and principles rather than recalling factual material, while still providing a thorough introduction to the subject.

Classes are tested regularly and take internal examinations at mid-year and year-end. The papers are set according to the style and standard of the final IGCSE papers. There are three papers at the end of the two years:

• Multiple Choice
• Alternative to Practical
• Structured Question

A-Level

The syllabus is divided into an AS, done in Lower 6 (Year 12), and an A2, done in Upper 6 (Year 13). Two classes are provided at each level, taught by qualified A-Level teachers.

The department offers well-equipped laboratories, with all students having access to an electric light microscope. There is an emphasis on practical work, particularly in the AS Level.

Course Aims

Aims that are assessed include knowledge with understanding in relation to factors such as:

• Scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts, theories
• Scientific vocabulary, terminology, conventions (including symbols, quantities and units)
• Scientific instruments and apparatus used in biology, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety
• Scientific quantities and their determination
• Scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications

Students must be able to handle information and solve problems using oral, written, symbolic, graphical and numerical forms of presentation, while also experimenting with their newly-acquired skills and investigations.

AS Candidates

Students begin the AS course when they return from Service Projects and Lower 6 selection. A good grounding in Chemistry and Mathematics, and an A grade at IGCSE Biology are recommended.

The AS introduces cellular ultrastructure, biochemistry, enzymes, cellular transport, cell and nuclear division, genetic control, mass transport in plants and humans, infectious diseases and immunity, and gas exchange.
There are three AS examinations done at the end of the year:

• Multiple Choice
• Advanced Practical
• Written Structured Questions Paper.

A2 Candidates

The A2 course includes photosynthesis, respiration, regulation, inherited change, selection and evolution, biodiversity and conservation, and gene technology.

There are two A2 examinations:

• Written Structured Questions
• Written Practical Planning, Analysis and Evaluation.

Career Prospects:

Besides the Biological Sciences, Biology at the Advanced Level can lead to further study and/or careers in various fields. These include Agriculture, Agronomy, Biochemistry, Dentistry, Information Science, Medicine, Ecology, Teaching, Veterinary Medicine, Microbiology, Psychology, Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Biotechnology.