Biology
Introduction
Biology is ‘the study of living organisms, divided into many specialised fields that cover their morphology, physiology, anatomy, behaviour, origin, and distribution’. At Stratford Girls’ Grammar School, teaching is carried out by specialist staff and is supported by a dedicated technician. We aim to stimulate and encourage curiosity, interest and enjoyment of all the above through engaging, relevant lessons.
Key Stage 3 Curriculum
Please see the separate information about Science in Year 7 and Year 8. You can find this in the menu to the right.
Year 9
In Year 9, girls will develop their interest in and enthusiasm for their chosen subjects out of Biology, Chemistry and Physics; developing a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods, acquiring and applying the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for further study. Although we begin teaching Science as separate subjects at this point, students will have been introduced to many GCSE concepts already and will be able to draw on these ideas with confidence as they progress. In Biology, this takes the shape of investigations into cell biology and organisation, bioenergetics, infections and responses.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
All SGGS students take Biology at GCSE.
From understanding how our bodies respond to changes both internally and externally, to subjects such as genetics, disease, crop production and ecology, Biology students learn to appreciate the world around us. This course is designed to help girls acquire and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works and develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods.
Experimental work is at the core of learning and used to enable our students to develop their understanding of Biology, establish sound laboratory techniques and promote independent investigative and analytical skills.
Our department offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities including lunchtime clubs and a host of visits to plant nurseries, wetlands and exploratory trips to countries like Borneo. In house we offer a Dissection Club, Med Soc for aspiring doctors, vets and dentists and Biology mentoring run by a team of Sixth Form students. We also encourage students to take part in national competitions such as the Intermediate Biology Olympiad and Biology Challenge organised by the Royal Society of Biology. These are designed to stimulate students’ curiosity for the natural world and encourages them to take an interest in biology outside of school.
Every year students continue with Biology beyond their SGGS education, often at some of the most prestigious and well-known universities in the UK.
Resources
Click the exam board logo below for exam specification:
Gallery