The number of pupils embarking on the AS course hovers around the mid-twenties and a small number will drop it at the end of the year to concentrate on their other three A2 subjects. Over the years a fair number of Cranleigh pupils have gone on to university to study Biology, Biological Sciences, Veterinary Sciences, Neurophysiology, Natural Sciences and Medicine.
The AQA specification is followed, which sets out to make the science of Biology as relevant to the modern student as is possible; the jargon phrase is ‘how science works’. Pupils will study for two main examinations, taking one in January and the other in June. The first unit (Biology and Disease) builds upon IGCSE knowledge of the respiratory and digestive systems and then investigates what goes wrong with these and how modern man can correct the difficulty. There is a consideration of basic cell structure, of disease-causing organisms; some simple biochemistry and basic microscopy supports the theoretical work. The application of biological principles is a vital skill that candidates will develop during the course and some study will be analytical and deductive, requiring free thinking and intelligent use of research materials.
The second unit (‘The Variety of Living Organisms’) again builds upon principles established in the GCSE course but now looking at the sources of biological variety (including a detailed look at DNA, proteins and cells) and then moves on to classification and finally measures of biodiversity. Some simple statistics will be covered.
There is no coursework. An experiment will be set by the Board, which candidates will complete under supervision in our laboratories. Candidates will then be assessed on their ability to analyse their data, to evaluate the experiment and to comment on their findings.
There are eight lessons per week and two teachers take responsibility for each set; the material is divided between them. Theory lessons are taught in small groups and pupils are encouraged to participate so that principles and topics are not only taught in the traditional sense but are also discussed at some length. In addition, in the Lower Sixth (year 12) there is a weekly practical class.
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