GCSE Biology - Level 2
Overview
This course is suitable for those who need a pass in a science GCSE in order to go onto further study, e.g. a teacher training course.
Consequentially, the course will focus on foundation tier topics in order to achieve a pass (grade 4 or 5), though students can study the higher tier topics independently in order to aim for a higher grade.
What will I study?
- Cell systems - cell structure, respiration, photosynthesis and enzymes.
- Scaling up- diffusion, osmosis, mitosis, circulation and transport systems in plants and animals.
- Organism level systems - nervous system, endocrine system and homeostasis.
- Ecosystems.
- Genes and inheritance.
- Global challenges - monitoring the environment, health and disease.
Entry requirements
- This course is for learners aged 19+ only
- Acceptance on the course will be conditional upon sitting a short entry assessment. This will assess your knowledge of cell structure and interpreting data tables of biological information.
How long is the course?
1 year.
Final exams will take place in May/June.
How will I be assessed?
The course is assessed by two written exam papers, which are sat in the summer. Each contributes 50% to your final GCSE grade.
- Paper 1 (FT) or 3 (HT) assesses syllabus sections B1 – B3 and B7.
- Paper 2 (FT) or 4 (HT) assesses syllabus section B4 – B7 (and assumes knowledge of sections B1 – B3).
(FT – foundation tier)
(HT – higher tier)
Career opportunities