Biology

Biology At The Royal Grammar School

Biology is taken by all students up to GCSE and is a very popular option at AS and A2 level - many of our students go on to study Biology or an allied subject like Medicine at University.

Students are taught in mixed ability groups of 32 in Years 7 and 8 where they follow the QCA scheme of work. In years 9 to 11 the group size is reduced to 24 and the boys follow the OCR Twenty First Century GCSE specification. The current A level specification is changing and from September 2008 students will be following the new OCR scheme.

Aims of the Biology Department

1. to interest as well as educate students – even those who may not go on to study Biology.

2. to develop an understanding of biological facts and principles.

3. to develop an appreciation of the contribution of Biology to the needs of society and an awareness of the need for the long term conservation of species and their habitats.

4. to develop an understanding of scientific method and its application.

5. to provide a suitable preparation for the continuation of the study of Biology beyond A2 level.

6. to use a wide variety of teaching methods, including visual, interactive and ICT at every key stage so that all learners are able to achieve their full potential.

7. to allow students to develop and hone practical skills so they can handle and manipulate scientific apparatus with confidence.

8. to select and teach the most appropriate specifications for the twenty first century.

9. to maintain excellent exam results.