Departmental Staff
- Laura Teague (Head of Department)
- Louise Traynor
- Oran Mc Granaghan
- Ciara Maguire
Department Overview
Biology is the study of life, relevant to all. The aim of the Biology department is to deepen pupil understanding of the structure of the human body and the interconnected nature of our organ systems.
The second central role of the subject is to widen student curiosity about the natural world around us, to recognise our position with the global ecosystem and the impact our activities have upon it. Through the teaching of a balance of topics, students gain an understanding of the complexity and variety of life.
We aim to foster a deeper awareness of our dependence on the natural environment for food and materials and highlight our responsibility to protect and sustain it.
Key Stage 3 - Overview
Within Key stage 3 Science, Biology is taught as several separate topics in each year group. In year 8 students learn about cells and body organs, understanding their functions within in our body.
As part of year 9 students further investigate the importance of food and digestion. Understanding the interdependence of organisms within ecosystems and the adaptations of organisms forms a major part of the year 9 course.
In year 10 students study the skeleton and muscles along with the circulatory and respiratory systems, understanding the link between these systems in bringing about movement. Plant biology is also extensively studied in year 10. Throughout key stage 3 the teaching of Biology involves an extensive range of central practical activities.
Students learn how to use the microscope and make slides for viewing. In year 9 they undertake fieldwork sessions in the school grounds to investigate the variety of living organisms found within the urban environment. Observing a teacher dissection of a heart and investigating the effects of exercise take place in year 10.
Key Stage 4 - Overview
Biology is taught as part of both Single Award Science and Double Award Science. The main themes of the human body, plants systems and the environment introduced in KS3 are expanded upon and offer stretch in understanding as well as preparation for potential further study. Students studying Double Award Science are taught Biology by subject specialist teachers. From this basis students are well equipped to study either Biology or Life and Health Science at post 16.
Post 16
Entry Requirements
The CCEA specification builds on knowledge from Doube-Award Science. Students need at least an AB overall, including a B in Biology Unit 2. A strong understanding of chemistry and maths is also required.
Skills Developed
A Level Biology develops skills in handling data, solving numerical and practical problems, using scientific equipment, and communicating findings clearly. It also encourages logical thinking, analysis, and teamwork.
Career Opportunities
Biology supports careers in areas such as agriculture, food industries, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, psychology genetics, zoology, bio-technology, biomedical engineering, education and laboratory work.
Course Summary
| Content | Assessment | Weighting |
| AS 1: Molecules and Cells | External Written Exam
1 1/2 hours |
37.5% of AS
15% of A Level |
| AS 2: Organisms and Biodiversity | External Written Exam
1 1/2 hours |
37.5% of AS
15% of A Level |
| AS 3: Practical Skills in AS Biology | External Written Practical Exam and Internal Practical Assessment | 25% of AS
10% of A Level |
| A2 1: Physiology, Co-Ordination and control, and Ecosystems | External Written Exam
2 1/4 hours |
24% of A Level |
| A2 2: Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends | External Written Exam
2 1/4 hours |
24% of A Level |
| A2 3: Practical Skills in Biology | External Written Practical Exam and Internal Practical Assessment | 12% of A Level |
Beyond the Classroom
Biology forms part of the Key Stage 3 Science Club which gives pupils an opportunity to investigate some aspects beyond the curricular topics. Ecology field work takes place within the school grounds, investigating the variety of habitats and invertebrate organisms found within these.
Biology aims to widen student curiosity about the importance of the living world and our connection with it, our reliance upon it for food, medicines and construction materials. The study of Biology at all levels involves use of Maths, extends literacy skills, encourages thinking skills and an appreciation of the wonder of our world.
From a careers perspective Biology forms a central skills component for many of the Allied Health Professions along with Agriculture and Biomedical Sciences. Many third level courses require the inclusion of a science subject, a role fulfilled by either Biology or Life and Health Science.