Curriculum, Extra-Curriculum & Educational Trips
IGCSE
This specification includes the following key features.
Structure: the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology is a linear qualification.
Two written examinations must be taken in the same series at the end of the course of
study.
Content: relevant, engaging, up to date and of equivalent standard to Pearson’s regulated
GCSE in Biology.
Assessment: written examinations with questions designed to be accessible to students of all abilities
The course is designed to provide students with the ability to:
- experience Biology within the context of their general education
- acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles
- acquire the skills needed to use them in new and changing situations
- appreciate the importance of accurate experimental work and reporting
- to apply science in real-life situations
- develop a logical approach to problem solving in a wider context
- select and apply appropriate areas of mathematics relevant to biology as set out under each topic
The specification is divided into five sections:
- The nature and variety of living organisms
- Structure and functions in living organisms
- Reproduction and inheritance
- Ecology and the environment
- Use of biological resources
Progression: IGCSE Biology serves as an excellent basis for broad understanding or advancing into further scientific studies.
International Advanced Level in Biology (IAL-Pearson Edexcel)
The IAS in Biology and the IAL in Biology are modular qualifications. Assessment consists of three written papers at IAS level, at the end of year 6, that are externally assessed. The International A level consists of three further written papers which are also externally assessed at the end of year 7. Requirement for entering the course is having achieved a grade 7 at IGCSE.
The course is designed to enable students to develop:
- essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other
- a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills
- their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- broad and deep development of transferable skills, which may be cognitive, intrapersonal or interpersonal
- understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
IAS – Year 6
The IAS can be claimed on completion of the following three International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS) units:
Unit 1 – Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health
Topic 1: Molecules, Transport and Health
Topic 2: Membranes, proteins, DNA and Gene Expression
Unit 2 – Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation
Topic 3: Cells Structure, Reproduction and Development
Topic 4: Plant Structure and Function, Biodiversity and Conservation
Unit 3 – Practical Skills in Biology I
This unit will assess students’ ability to apply their knowledge and understanding of experimental design, procedures and techniques developed throughout units 1 and 2.
All exam papers include assessment of mathematics, including statistics and practical skills. Practical skills are assessed externally, through practical-based questions in the exam. If students opt to continue to IAL marks achieved on IAS papers will form part of the final A level grade.
IAL – Year 7
The IAL can be claimed on completion of an additional three International Advanced Level (IAL) units:
Unit 4 – Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity
Topic 5: Energy Flow, Ecosystems and the Environment
Topic 6: Microbiology, Immunity and Forensics
Unit 5 – Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology
Topic 7: Respiration, Muscles and the Internal Environment
Topic 8: Coordination, Response and Gene Technology
Unit 6 – Practical Skills in Biology II
This unit will assess students’ ability to apply their knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques and their ability to plan whole investigations, analyse data and to
evaluate their results and experimental methodology.
All papers at IAL can assess material from all 8 topics covered over the IAS (year 6) and IAL (year 7) courses.
Progression: International Advanced Level qualifications enable successful progression to undergraduate studies, further education or employment.
Extra Curricular Opportunities and Educational Trips
BioBolt Year 5 (Monday) and Year 6 (Thursday)
BioBolt provides our year 5 and 6 biology students with the opportunity to practice and refine their skills outside of regular classroom hours through regular support and practice sessions with a focus on past paper questions. Students will be guided by our experienced teachers and will be provided with valuable insights into exam techniques. By working through additional past papers and practice questions, students will gain familiarity with the exam format and reinforce their understanding of key concepts.
ESBS (English School Biological Society)
The English School Biological Society encourages inquisitive learners who are passionate about biology through a blend of academic enrichment, practical experiences, and competitive opportunities. Competitions include the intermediate biology Olympiad, genius genetics competition and DNA-day essay competitions. Students in year 6 who are selected to complete an EPQ will be an integral part of the society.
Medicine Club
The Medicine Club is a student lead club open to Year 5,6 and 7 students. It will consist of student-prepared presentations, guest speakers and discussions based on the application process for medicine in the UK and EU. Presentations will cover topics such as medical specialties: radiology, pulmonology, neurology, paediatrics, etc., research on medical advancements as well as the ethical concepts of medicine to include the four pillars of medical ethic: stem cell, euthanasia, mRNA technology controversy and clinical ethics. Similarly, invitations will be extended to doctors to speak to us about their specialty as well as their journey in medicine, some of which can be English School alumni. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss with guest speakers.
The club will also act as a guide for younger students who are interested in medicine. Through the club they will discover and enhance their passion for medicine, while gaining valuable information and knowledge that will assist them in writing their personal statement and completing medical school interviews. Since interviews are particularly important in medical school applications, practicing interview questions and covering topics that commonly come up in interviews will act as preparation for students.
Furthermore, younger students will be introduced to UCAT as it has become a vital aspect of medical school applications in both the UK and Greece. Year 7 students will guide younger students by providing tips and help on the admission test as well as help them effectively plan work experience which is a requirement from medical schools.
