In their first year at Charterhouse, the boys are introduced to basic biological principles. The syllabus is flexible enough to enable exploration of a variety of projects, many of which result from the interest of the boys. This usually includes a survey of the five Kingdoms, often involving dissections of invertebrate animals such as squid, prawns and fish. After Christmas, we begin the main syllabus, starting with digestion and transport (blood and the heart). During their first year in biology, the boys are also encouraged to learn or improve upon computer skills, such as use of Word, PowerPoint and Excel Spreadsheets.
Because this course builds on the knowledge, understanding and practical skills that are developed in GCSE and IGCSE it is expected that pupils will have taken Biology at this level.
The course is divided into six modules as follows:
Unit 1 Cells, Exchange and Transport
Unit 2 Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health
Unit 3 Practical Skills in Biology 1
Unit 4 Communication, Homeostasis and Energy
Unit 5 Control, Genomes and Environment
Unit 6 Practical Skills in Biology 2
Although the linear nature of our teaching means that these can be taught in any order, we will be following the guidelines stated in the syllabus and teach units 1-3 in the first year and units 4-6 in the second year of the sixth form.
The course will include much practical work and the examinable practical units will be covered by the experiments the pupils perform as we go through each year. We are currently looking into the possibility of a residential trip in the second year of the course to fulfil the practical requirements and allow the pupils to do some more serious fieldwork.
The course is exciting and should challenge pupils both academically and in their practical skills. It covers a wide range of topics from basic cell structure to receptors in the brain and their effect on human behaviour.
University courses and subject combinations
Biology is essential for all Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Courses. It is relevant and helpful for any study of Biology at university.
E.P. Nelson