The Biology Course in Years 10 and 11 is a continuation and extension of the work from Years 7 – 9, with additional topics for IGCSE. This course is designed to develop skills in both theory and practical work, and is an enjoyable and stimulating subject. It is an excellent foundation for those students who intend to pursue a career requiring knowledge of biology. It is also a course with content applicable to life after school, for those not wishing to pursue a biology based career. Some of the areas studied are:
There are three assessed areas of knowledge in Biology, which are:
We study using the Cambridge International Exam Board – syllabus 0610.
The final grade is determined by three examinations:
Level | Paper | Question Type | Time & Marks | Weighting (%) | Level of Entry | Grades Available |
| Core | 1 | Multiple Choice | 45 min & 40 marks | 30 | Core only | C – G |
| Core | 3 | Short-answer & Structured Questions | 75 min & 80 marks | 50 | Core only | C – G |
| Extended | 2 | Multiple Choice | 45 min & 40 marks | 30 | Extended only | A* – G |
| Extended | 4 | Short-answer & Structured Questions | 75 min & 80 marks | 50 | Extended only | A* – G |
| Core & Extended | 6 | Alternative to Practical | 60 min & 40 marks | 20 | Core & Extended | C – G or A*- G |
Students are entered at one of two levels: Core or Extended. If students are entered at Core they sit 3 papers (1,3 & 6) and can obtain Grades C to G. If students are entered at Extended level, they sit 3 papers (2,4 & 6) and can obtain grades A* – G.
Biology is essential for any career in medicine or veterinary work, pharmacology, dentistry, ophthalmology, agricultural science, biochemistry, drug development, molecular biology, genetic engineering, marine biology, food technology, chiropody, environmental health.
