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A-Level Biology (AS/A2)

Course Code: ODL141

This A-Level Biology home study course is a fascinating course which studies living organisms including human beings. A-Levels are split up into two parts. The first part is called the AS level, this is half of an A-level. To turn an AS Level into a full A-level you then do the second half of the course which is called "A2". This A-Level Biology home study course is a fascinating course which studies living organisms including human beings.

Course Content

Module 1:

• Lesson 1 - The Chemistry of Life
• Lesson 2 - Cells
• Lesson 3 - Cell Transport
• Lesson 4 - Gaseous Exchange
• Lesson 5 - Enzymes and Digestion

 Module 2:

• Lesson 6 - Genes and the Genetic Code
• Lesson 7 - The Cell Cycle and Reproduction
• Lesson 8 - Genetic Engineering
• Lesson 9 - Applications Genetic Engineering

Module 3:

• Lesson 10 - Coursework 1: What to do
• Lesson 11 - Coursework 2: Writing up your work
• Lesson 12 - Transport 1: The Mammal
• Lesson 13 - Transport 2: The Green Plant

Module 4:

• Lesson 14 - Respiration and Photosynthesis
• Lesson 15 - Stimulus and Response
• Lesson 16 - Hormones and Homeostasis
• Lesson 17-  Muscles and Movement
• Lesson 18 - Genetics
• Lesson 19 - Variation and Evolution

Module 5: 

• Lesson 20 - Environment: Energy and Nutrient Flow
• Lesson 21 - The Cell Cycle and Reproduction
• Lesson 22 - Genetic Engineering

Module 6:

• Lesson 24 - Bacteria and Viruses
• Lesson 25 - Biotechnology and Antibiotics
• Lesson 26 - Infectious Disease

The Examination

This A-level course is examined within 6 components:

Examination Paper 1 - Core Principals: This paper is one hour in length and the marks provide 30% of the overall marks for the course

Examination Paper 2 - Genes and Genetic Engineering: This paper is one hour in length and the marks provide 30% of the overall marks for the course.

Examination Paper 3A - Physiology and Transport: This paper is one hour in length and the marks provide 25% of the overall marks for the course.

Examination component 3B - Coursework: Your coursework contributes 15% of the overall marks for the course.

Exanimation Paper 4 - Energy, Control and Continuity: This paper is one and a half hours in length and the marks provide 15% of the overall marks for the course.

Examination Paper 5A - Environment: This paper is one and a quarter hours in length and the marks provide 7.5% of the overall marks for the course.

Examination Paper 5B - Coursework: Your coursework contributes 7.5% of the overall marks for the course. It is authenticated by your tutor and marked by an AQA examiner.

Examination component 6 - Microbes and Disease + Synoptic paper: This paper is two and one quarter hours in length and the marks account for 10% of the overall marks for the course, and the synoptic paper 10%. Please note that synoptic questions will assess AS as well as A2 material.

Coursework

Coursework is used to assess the four skills in the experiment and investigation of the subject core for biology. The skills comprising the coursework component are as follows:

• Planning
• Implementing
• Analysing evidence and drawing conclusions
• Evaluating evidence and procedures.

You will need to consult with your tutor about your choice of coursework. Students are reminded that the examination boards now use very sophisticated technology to determine that coursework is original. Of course you should use textbooks and the internet for research but the work itself must be your own. If the examination board suspect you of plagiarism they may disqualify you from the exam.

Practical Work and Fieldwork

All sciences benefit from laboratory experience and, while the course describes fully all the practicals covered in the syllabus; this is no substitute for hands-on experience. If you have the chance of supervised laboratory work during your study of the course it will add greatly to your understanding of the material. Much of the fieldwork associated with the course can be undertaken with the minimum of equipment and can form the basis of your coursework for A2.

Study Method

The course is designed for study by distance learning at home or at work. Students receive a course manual, assignments and study guide plus tutor support by mail or email. You can start this course at any time.

Qualifications

The course leads to the an A-Level Biology (AS/A2) issued by AQA upon completion of your course. Both AS and A2 level courses and examinations must be successfully completed to gain a full A level.

Course Questions & Answers

What skills are needed to enrol onto this course?

Students will need to either have GCSE Biology (or equivalent) or GCSE Science (or equivalent).

Is there a time limit for completion of this course?

This is a fast-track A-level course and the final sitting for this examinations is Summer 2009. Your free Tutor Support also finishes at this time. This makes this course perfect for completing quickly.

What is included in the cost of my course?

• You will receive your official course manual
• A4 folder containing assignments
• A stationery pack is also provided including paper, envelopes, pens and folders
• Unlimited online tutor support
• FREE quality record bag to keep all of your home learning materials in

Are there any additional costs?

Students will need to arrange and pay for their examinations at a local school, college or assessment centre.

Required reading list:

• Advanced Level Biology AS for AQA Specification B (Advanced Level Biology for AQA) Lea, Lowrie, McGuigan - Heinemann. ISBN 0435580833
• Advanced Level Biology A2 for AQA Specification B (Advanced Level Biology for AQA) Lea, Lowrie, McGuigan - Heinemann. ISBN 0435580817

We can provide these books to you at a reduced student price if you require, Please contact us for more details.

How do I get my work assessed?

Returning your work is simple. We provide an online learning environment for our A Level courses that allows you to submit your work electronically via your computer. You also have the option of returning your assessments via Email if you so wish.

What do I do if I still have questions?

Please feel free to use the Contact Us Form on this website. A home learning course tutor will respond as soon as possible.

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