Best Course Studies in Life Sciences 2017. What is it like to study this course and how will I be assessed? This two year course is designed to provide a smooth transition from GCSE Core/Additional Science and GCSE Chemistry courses and to interface with the needs of Higher Education courses. It provides an appreciation and understanding of important chemical principles which are fundamental to the understanding of the world in which we live. The course also encourages students to come to understand how scientists investigate scientific phenomena in their attempts to explain the world around us. Students develop their practical skills to complement their understanding of chemical concepts. The study of chemistry is useful in understanding other areas of science. You will be taught through lectures, practical work, problem solving and discussions. You will have access to fully equipped laboratories and PCs with interactive media. You will be assessed in May/June of each year with mock exams in the January of each year. In the first year there are 2 exams of 1 hour 30 minutes duration, in the second year there are 3 exams each of 2 hours duration. There is no coursework element but a series of practical investigations will be assessed in order to award a certificate of practical endorsement and to prepare students for practical questions in the main exams. What topics will I study? Chemistry is divided into distinct disciplines that are assessed in all the written papers across the 2 years. Physical Chemistry includes... [-]

What is it like to study this course and how will I be assessed? AS and A Level Biology encourage you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of Biology and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations. You will develop an understanding of scientific method and be aware of those scientific advances in technology that are relevant to the Biological Sciences. You will appreciate the value of and the responsible use of Biology in society. In addition, at A Level you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of Biology and learn to make and use connection between them. You will be taught through lectures, group work, practical work, assignment and projects. Videos, IT equipment and visits are used as teaching aids and you will have access to fully equipped laboratories and also IT equipment. Various ongoing assessments are made by tests, essay writing and other exercises which do not contribute to the final exam. Examinations: At AS Level there are 2x 1hour 30 minute written exams and at A Level there are 3x 2 hour written exams. What topics will I study? Year 1 (AS Level): Biological molecules Cells Organisms exchange substances with their environment Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms Year 2 (A Level): Energy transfers in and between organisms Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems The control of gene expression... [-]