Biology
Staff
Mrs Janice Reid BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd Head of Department
Mr. P O’Grady BSc(Hons), PGCE
Mrs. L. Gawn BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd
Mrs. C. Hart BSc (Hons), PGCE
The four teaching staff are supported by two job share technicians, Mrs. Leah Murray and Ms Michelle McMillan.
Aims
- To stimulate an interest in and enjoyment of Biology.
- To develop an understanding of the effects of Biology on society.
- To develop and apply knowledge and understanding of the nature of science and of scientific processes;
- To develop and apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem solving skills and understanding in laboratory, field and other learning environments;
- To develop practical skills, including the use of ICT and the evaluation of experimental results.
- To develop an awareness of the moral and ethical issues that relate to scientific research and development.
Key Stage 3
In Years 9 and 10 all pupils follow a practically based Biology course as a separate subject.
Key Stage 4
Pupils follow the CCEA GCSE specification. They can either take Biology as an individual subject or as part of a Double Award Science course for GCSE.
AS/A2
Year 13 pupils study for the CCEA AS examination. This course has two theory modules assessed by external examination and two pieces of internally marked coursework.
In Year 14 pupils progress to the A2 course, consisting of two externally assessed theory modules and one piece of internally assessed coursework
Careers
Pupils at all levels are made aware of the range of careers that would require the study of Biology, such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Optometry, Physiotherapy, Biomedical science and a range of professions allied to Medicine.
Achievements & Trips
In 2004 Joy Haydock achieved full marks in her CCEA A Level examinations and came first in Northern Ireland. This achievement was recognised and rewarded by The Institute of Biology. In 2009, Tristan Holdsworth was the top student in GCSE Biology, coming first in Northern Ireland. In 2012 Fiona Cunningham was second in GCE A level Biology in Northern Ireland.
Within the school grounds there is a wildlife garden and school pond, both providing a useful teaching resource. Environmental work has been undertaken by the ‘Young Environmentalist’ group who have been very successful in the ECO UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards. More recently an Eco committee has been established to give pupils an active role in maintaining and improving their school environment.
Web links
A-level
Past Papers www.ccea.org.uk
GCSE Biology
Guidance and Support for New Specification www.ccea.org.uk
GCSE Double Award Biology
Guidance and Support for New Specification www.ccea.org.uk
Useful resources for revision.
The Biology micro site provided by CCEA – follow the links from www.ccea.org.uk
BBC bite size: Link
S-Cool revision site: Link
Biology
