If you’re considering taking GCSE Biology, then you are more than likely the type of person who thrives from learning about the fascinating wonder that is life.
Consider how your body develops, repairs itself and its immunological response to viruses which try to infect it. It functions like a well-oiled machine that is more efficient than anything we could ever dream of creating.
Living organisms are amazingly complex, a single cell alone is intricate and intriguing. To study all the components in the systems required to create life is truly compelling. Through Biology, you gain a deeper understanding of what is going on inside yourself and the world around you.
You’ll study life and the living organisms within it. Focussing on how each organism came to exist, how they are built, how they grow, the way they function and in what environment they thrive.
Biologists work to understand environmental issues, genetics and the makeup of all living things. They are often employed within agriculture, conservation, medicine and industry. Though there are many other career paths a person can take with the right Biology qualifications.
If you have an inquisitive mind, are introspective and love to investigate the unknown, you may want to take the first step towards this career path by studying GCSE Biology.
What the Course Involves
This GCSE course has been created to inspire and challenge students of all abilities. It aims to help you to develop your curiosity about the natural world. Giving you an insight into how science works and an appreciation for the ways it is relevant to your everyday life.
You will study a broad range of subjects, designed to demonstrate your understanding, application and analysis of scientific ideas, techniques and procedures. There will be two paper assessments held in May/June:
Paper 1 – Assesses your understanding of Cell biology, Organisation, Infection and response and Bioenergetics.
Paper 2 – Measures your knowledge of Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, Variation and evolution and Ecology.
Each paper will be a mixture of multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open responses and both will account for 50% of your GCSE.
This GCSE Biology course provides you with the opportunity to progress to higher level study and provides excellent preparation for A-level Biology.
The Subjects You’ll Cover
Cell biology – The exploration of the structural differences between types of cells and how these differences enable them to perform specific functions within the organism.
Organisation – A look at the human digestive system and how it provides the body with nutrients. As well as the respiratory system and the way that provides oxygen and removes carbon dioxide.
Infection and response – The way we can avoid diseases by reducing contact with them, and how the body uses barriers against pathogens.
Bioenergetics - How plants harness the Sun's energy in photosynthesis to make food.
Homeostasis and response – Identifying the structure and function of the nervous system and the fast responses it can bring. As well as the slower changes brought about by the hormonal system.
Inheritance, variation and evolution – Understanding how the number of chromosomes is halved during meiosis, then merged with new genes from sexual partners to produce unique offspring.
Ecology - Realise how humans are threatening biodiversity and the natural systems supporting it. Deliberating on the actions required to ensure our future health, prosperity and well-being.
Key ideas – Reviewing the key ideas in Biology and their universal application.
What You’ll Learn
By studying GCSE Biology, you learn the fundamental biological concepts and principles. Which will help you gain an understanding of the foundations of the material world.
You will be taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science that are vital for scientific understanding and ensuring the world’s future prosperity. Learning about the nature, processes and methods of biology through various scientific enquiries and how this helps to answer scientific questions about the world around us.
You’ll be able to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills in the laboratory, field and other learning environments.
Finally, you will develop the ability to evaluate biology-based claims qualitatively and quantitatively by critically analysing the methodology, evidence and conclusions.
Where You Can Go with GCSE Biology
While a career as a Biologist is a fascinating choice, it is not the only route you can take with a Biology qualification. There are many interesting and diverse avenues you can explore:
Science and research – Other interesting science-related roles would greatly benefit from your GCSE or further A-level study of Biology. You could use your skills to study crime scene evidence as a Forensic Scientist for example.
Medicine and healthcare – Jobs like being a Doctor or Pharmacist typically require GCSE and A Level Biology to apply to medical school to study a degree in medicine.
Agriculture – Your knowledge and interest in the environment and preservation would assist your work in agricultural roles like Farming, Ecology and Landscaping.
Sport and fitness – Both GCSE and A Level Biology will contribute to careers in sports and fitness like Physiotherapy or Personal Training. Your comprehension of the body and the way it works would allow you to bring well-rounded knowledge to your role.
Why Study GCSEs Online?
As the sophistication of the internet has evolved, so too has the popularity of online courses.
With dynamic and engaging course materials and the ability to speak with your dedicated tutor all available within an online portal, you aren’t missing out by not being in the classroom. In fact, distance learning takes away the stress and anxiety that can often be felt as a mature student walking back into education
You can study your GCSEs at home, at your own pace, without the worry of asking the wrong question and holding up the rest of the class. Your tutor is on hand to answer all your queries directly, so you can relax and enjoy the process of learning your chosen subject.
What’s more, with no classes to attend there is no timetable to stick to, you’ll just need to bear in mind the exams you will sit in May/June. So, if your schedule means you need to study in unsociable hours, that’s completely fine. You can learn around your current work or family commitments, removing the barrier to study you may have previously experienced.
So, no matter what your end goal is, GCSEs are an excellent starting point. You can choose the subjects that will put you on the best path to your ideal career or higher level of education. As a nationally recognised qualification, they allow you to work towards university by going on to study A Levels or an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
Take your passion for science and put it into a rewarding career by enrolling on our GCSE Biology course today.
learndirect is a leading UK distance learning institution. We provide the tools to learn and you do the rest. Find out more about our GCSE Biology course by clicking the link to the specification below.
