GCSE Biology Tutors

Why study GCSE Biology?

GCSE Biology encourages learners to develop confidence and a positive attitude towards science and its role in our lives. This course of study provides a foundation for understanding the natural world around us as well as the healthy functioning of the human body. Students will be taught essential aspects of the complex and diverse phenomena of our natural world and their universal application in society.

What is Biology?

Biology is the science of life, using cells as a basic unit of life and understanding how life has evolved and functions on our planet. Biology spans a diverse set of subjects from diet and nutrition, to food chains, to understanding disease and gene inheritance.

Previously, the sciences at GCSE level were modular. Students would have topics set out in units with assessment being comprised of coursework and end of year exams. The new GCSE Biology is a linear course, with set practicals and all assessment taking place at the end of the two-year course.

What is covered in GCSE Biology?

The main UK examining boards (AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR, and Eduqas) all offer GCSE Biology and follow a similar curriculum. Their courses will cover units based on developing a student’s understanding of the key ideas that underpin the sciences, and commonly include:

• Using conceptual models and theories to understand natural phenomena
• Understanding that every effect has one or more cause
• Learning that change is driven by how different objects and systems interact and that these can happen without direct contact
• Assimilating the scientific process of hypothesis, experimentation, observation, theory, and evaluation
• Discovering that quantitative analysis is a central element of scientific theory and scientific inquiry

The course is broken into topics, which involve an element of set practical work. Practical experiments will measure whether you are prepared for written exams.

Biology will commonly include:

• Inheritance, variation and evolution
• Organisation
• Ecology
• Infection and response
• Cell biology
• Homeostasis and response
• Bioenergetics

GCSE Biology is assessed with exams at the end of Year 11. There are two papers, each comprising 50% of your mark.

Will I Need Prior Learning?

GCSE Biology builds on topics taught at Key Stage 3, and there are no previous learning requirements to study it.

Where can I use GCSE Biology?

The skills and knowledge gained in GCSE Biology are extremely transferable and highly valued by both employers and educators alike. The development of critical evaluative skills, analytical skills, maths know-how, and communication skills are all in demand by employers.

GCSE Biology would be useful to students who are looking to specialise in a particular scientific field, Economics, Mathematics, Psychology, ICT, or Engineering at college or university level. A GCSE in Biology can lead to a career as a doctor, vet, architect, farmer, sports trainer and a variety of other careers.

Is GCSE Biology right for me?

You are the only person who can really answer this question. However, there are professionals who can offer help and advice. The Profs academic consultancy can provide advice on your key academic decisions in planning your educational path. Combined with expert career advice, we can answer any questions you have about GCSE Biology and how it can help your long-term objectives.

If you know that GCSE Biology is the right choice for you but are concerned about the workload for the course, then the Profs private tuition service is available to help. You can receive professional, expert advice from our team of tutors in ensuring you achieve your objectives.