Programmes of Study
The Shell (Year 9) course explores how living things are put together. This extends from the molecular level to the way a whole organism interacts with others and its environment. Through experiment and scientific investigation, pupils will explore such issues as cell biology, photosynthesis, feeding and ecology.
The two year IGCSE course begins with a focus on the impact of humans on the environment and introduces students to the problem of evaluating contradictory claims. Human biology - the reproductive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems - provides the understanding that underpins personal health decisions. The coordination of different systems in the body, inheritance and evolution are all studied, special consideration being given to modern scientific developments such as genetic modification.
At A Level many GCSE topics are studied in greater depth and new ones introduced. The development of investigative, observation and research skills is integral to the course. In the Lower Sixth, pupils study the cellular and biochemical make up of organisms in relation to medical developments such as stem cells and drug targeting. Respiratory and cardiovascular systems illustrate how the needs of the organism are supplied and how this is compromised by disease. A global perspective is introduced in the study of the impact of infectious disease, food supply and evolution leading to the astonishing biodiversity of the planet and the steps required to protect it.
In the Upper Sixth, coordination and control are explored from the molecular level of how genes work, through the hormonal and nervous coordination systems to the behaviour of whole organisms in their environments. Principles are strongly linked with applications such as genetics and gene technologies, the study of ecosystems with sustainability. The ability to link different areas of learning is key and personal reading is strongly encouraged.
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