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    Biology

    Introduction to Department:  

    Biology teaching at BWS aims to give all pupils a strong understanding of the living world whilst allowing them to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to think scientifically and understand biological processes. Students develop scientific enquiry skills and learn to analyse data objectively. These are transferable skills which allow students to evaluate information critically in a world where scientific claims are often presented as facts. 

    The Biology Department aims to nurture curiosity and wonder about the natural world while equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to navigate modern life. Biology is a subject of clear relevance to society and we aim to develop strong foundations in every student whilst also supporting those who wish to pursue biology-related careers. 

    Courses are designed to build logically on foundations established in earlier years, ensuring students develop a broad understanding of biology within a modern context. Lessons are varied and challenging, combining theory with regular practical work. Mathematical and data analysis skills are integrated throughout the curriculum, and students are encouraged to develop evaluative and independent learning skills from Year 7 onwards. 

    Biology is a highly regarded subject within the school and many students continue their studies at A-level and beyond. At GCSE, 71% of students achieve grades 7–9, well above the national average. Biology remains a popular A-level subject with typically 75–80 students in each year group. Results are consistently strong, with around 86% of students achieving grades A*–C and 36% achieving A* or A grades. Many students progress to medical, biological or other science-based courses at university. 

    Recommended reading list:  

    • The Selfish gene by Richard Dawkins KS4/5 
    • The History of Everyone Who Ever Lived by Adam Rutherford KS4/5 
    • The Doctor Will See You Now Dr Amir Khan KS5 
    • How We Live and Why We Die by Lewis Wolpert KS4/5 
    • The Incredible Unlikeliness of Being by Prof Alice Roberts KS4/5 
    • Ocean: Earth's Last Wilderness David Attenborough KS3-5 

     

    Extra and Super-curricular:  

    There is a wide array of science enrichment opportunities available throughout the year to further the interest of students, for example: 

    • Lunchtime STEM Club (Year 7 & 8) 
    • Planetarium Visit (Year 7) 
    • British Biology Olympiad (sixth form) 
    • Biology Challenge (Year 10) 
    • STEM Careers Day (sixth form) 
    • Institute of Mechanical Engineers (iMechE) Lecture (Year 10 & 11) 
    • BAYS Lectures 
    • MedSoc 
    • Exam group help sessions 
    • Various competitions 
    • Fieldwork opportunities

    Learning by Key Stage:

    Key Stage 3

    In Year 7 students have one, or in some cases two, science teachers who deliver an engaging, practical-orientated and knowledge-rich overview of all three sciences through twelve modules including Cells and Organisms, Acids and Alkalis and The Earth in Space. The course follows the content of the National Curriculum and students are assessed through end-of-topic assessments that include synoptic questions drawing on knowledge from across the three sciences. 

    In Year 8 students are taught by a biology specialist. Lessons develop a deeper understanding of biological systems in plants, animals and ecosystems, with regular opportunities to investigate topics through practical work. Topics studied include Modes of Nutrition, Plant Nutrition, Heterotrophic Nutrition, Respiration and Breathing and Microbes and Disease. Each topic is assessed through topic tests including both recall and application questions. 

    Key Stage 4

    The GCSE Biology course begins in year 9 and is completed in year 11. We follow AQA 9-1 GCSE Biology.  

    The course is studied over three years and is assessed through two written examinations in the summer of Year 11. There is no coursework, although required practicals are integrated into the scheme of learning and allow students to develop practical investigation skills. 

    Topics begin by revisiting key concepts from KS3. Students begin with Cells in Year 9 and progress to the study of organ systems in Year 10, including topics such as Animal Transport and Immunity. In Year 11 students study broader biological themes including DNA, Inheritance and Evolution and Human Impact on Ecosystems. 

    The course provides valuable knowledge and skills for everyday life and also forms an excellent foundation for students wishing to continue to A-level Biology. 

    A Level  

    Students studying A level Biology follow the OCR Biology A Specification. 

    Students have eight lessons of Biology per fortnight and are taught by two specialist teachers. Lessons combine theory, practical work, discussion, exam practice and independent study. Students are supported throughout the course to develop strong subject knowledge and independent learning skills through both classwork and homework. 

    Practical work is embedded throughout the course and students complete a range of practical activities which contribute to the Practical Endorsement. Students must maintain records of their practical work and develop skills in planning, implementing, analysing and evaluating investigations. 

    The course is divided into six modules: 

    Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology 
    Practical work completed across Years 12 and 13 through a series of Practical Activity Groups. 

    Module 2 – Foundations in biology 
    Cell biology, biological molecules, enzymes, nucleic acids and cell division. 

    Module 3 – Exchange and transport 
    Gas exchange and transport systems in animals and plants. 

    Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease 
    Immunity, ecological processes, classification, variation and natural selection. 

    Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy 
    Photosynthesis, respiration and physiological regulation. 

    Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems 
    Genetics, gene technologies and ecosystem dynamics. 

    The course is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13: 

    1. Biological Processes – 2 hours 15 minutes – 37% 
    2. Biological Diversity – 2 hours 15 minutes – 37% 
    3. Unified Biology – 1 hour 30 minutes – 26% 

    Staff

    Head of Department:   Mrs Shirley Madzarevic  sem@bws-school.org.uk 

    Teachers of:  

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