GCSE Options

Biology

The Biology GCSE course follows the Edexcel International GCSE (IGCSE) specification (4BI1). Though demanding, the course provides students with an applied, practical, and engaging snapshot of basic mammalian physiology, ecology and plant science whilst also providing a solid foundation for further study of Biology at A Level.

The course is terminally examined, and all students sit either one (for Double Award scientists) or two GCSE examinations in the summer term of the Fifth Form.

Paper 1 (110 marks) 2 hours Paper 2 (70 marks) 1 hour and 15 minutes

There is no coursework component to the syllabus as such, though examination questions on both written papers will draw on candidates’ knowledge and understanding of various core practical skills. Broadly speaking, questions on both written papers assess the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of theory and investigative skills. Candidates will be assessed by a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.

Topics covered are included below:

Nature & Variety of Living Organisms Characteristics of living organisms Variety of living organisms Structures & Functions in Living Organisms

Organisation Cell Structure Biological molecules Movement in & out of cells Nutrition Respiration Gas exchange

Transport Excretion Co-ordination & response Reproduction & Inheritance Reproduction Inheritance

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