AS/A Level Biology

Print PageSend to friend

Biology is a really interesting subject, especially at this time when scientists are making big advances in understanding how organisms work. Biology, molecular biology and genetics are dynamic areas of scientific growth. The pharmaceutical industry is hugely important to the UK economy.

Tower Hamlets College offers an innovative course in A level Biology. At AS level (year 1) you will study two units. In Unit 1 you will be studying the structure and function of cells, human physiology (heart and lungs) and disease; in Unit 2 you will look at the variety of life, genetics and physiology related to other organisms. You also study "How science works", which will prepare you for setting up experiments and collecting data, and will enhance your ability to analyse and evaluate and to write experiment reports.

At A2 level you will take Units 3 and 4, in which you will study the following topics: How populations and the environment affect each other; the control and co-ordination of cells and the body as a whole; Genetic controls and DNA Technology. You will continue to study "How science works" and look at how you can apply your scientific knowledge to these topics.  

As a part of your course you will take part in a field trip to collect and then analyse data. In Biology you will be expected to carry out a number of practical experiments and to write experiment reports competently. Biology is a demanding subject that requires good study skills. You will need to work independently at home, and to be able to read, analyse and write about scientific topics.

Pursuing a career in biology can be immensely rewarding and exciting. Studying biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, and solve problems. Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. They may study cells under a microscope, insects in a rainforest, viruses that affect human beings, plants in a greenhouse, or lions in the African grasslands. Their work increases our understanding about the natural world in which we live and helps us address issues of personal well being and worldwide concern, such as environmental depletion, threats to human health, and maintaining viable and abundant food supplies. Here's some more information on careers in the biological sciences.