KS4 GCSE

Science: Biology

blood cells

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In Years 10 and 11, students focus on preparing for life after GCSEs. Using our online platform Unifrog, they explore potential pathways, including Sixth Form, college courses and apprenticeships, and the subjects or qualifications required for different careers. We also provide opportunities to meet employers, training providers and local colleges, giving students real-world insight into the world of work. All students complete Year 10 work experience and meet our independent Careers Advisor to discuss their future plans.

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Course ID
AQA 8461
Faculty
Science
Department
Biology
Level
GCSE
Head of Faculty
S. Owen
Head of Department
K. Gohil
KS4 GCSE Science: Biology

Course Overview

Studying Biology at GCSE is an exciting opportunity to explore the living world, from the smallest cells to complex ecosystems.

Building on the knowledge and skills developed at Key Stage 3, students deepen their understanding of biological concepts while developing practical, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Students can follow either the AQA Separate Science route (triple science) or the AQA Combined Science Trilogy route (double science). Both routes cover essential Biology topics, including cell biology, organisation, infection and response, bioenergetics, inheritance, evolution and ecology. Separate Science is particularly suited to students with a strong interest in Biology who wish to study the subject in greater depth and progress to A-Level Biology and beyond.

Through practical investigations, modelling, and contextualised lessons, students gain hands-on experience, while learning to analyse data, evaluate evidence, and develop logical explanations. The course encourages curiosity, resilience, and the ability to think critically about living systems and real-world challenges, from health and disease to conservation and sustainability.

Studying Biology at GCSE not only enhances scientific knowledge and reasoning but also provides a solid foundation for further study in the sciences. It opens doors to careers in healthcare, research, environmental science, biotechnology, education, and a wide range of STEM-related fields.

Course Description

Year 10

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 B3: Organisation and the digestive system. 
B4: Organising animals  
B9 Respiration 
B4 Organising plants 
 
Autumn 2 B3: Organisation and the digestive system. 
B4: Organising animals  
B9 Respiration 
B4 Organising plants 
 
Spring 1 B8 Photosynthesis 
B5: Communicable diseases. 
B6: Preventing and treating disease 
B7: Non-communicable diseases 
B10: The Human Nervous System 
Unit 2 and 3 listening and reading assessment. Writing assessment. 
Spring 2 B8 Photosynthesis 
B5: Communicable diseases. 
B6: Preventing and treating disease 
B7: Non-communicable diseases 
B10: The Human Nervous System 
Unit 4 listening and reading assessment.
Summer 1 B10: The Human Nervous System 
B11: Hormonal Coordination 
Finish chapter B11 and revision on chapters 1 – 10 for the mock exam. 
 
Summer 2 B10: The Human Nervous System 
B11: Hormonal Coordination 
Finish chapter B11 and revision on chapters 1 – 10 for the mock exam. 
Year 10 GCSE mock exam B1-B10 

Year 11

Term Unit of Work Assessment
Autumn 1 B12 Homeostasis (triple only) 
B12: Reproduction 
B13: Variation and evolution. 
B14: Genetics and evolution. 
 
Autumn 2 B12 Homeostasis (triple only) 
B12: Reproduction 
B13: Variation and evolution. 
B14: Genetics and evolution. 
Year 11 GCSE mock exam Paper1 B1-B11 and continuous teacher assessment.
Spring 1 B15: Adaptations, interdependence and competition. 
B16: Organising an ecosystem. 
B17: Biodiversity and ecosystems. 
 
Spring 2 B15: Adaptations, interdependence and competition. 
B16: Organising an ecosystem. 
B17: Biodiversity and ecosystems. 
Year 11 GCSE Paper 2 mock exam B10-B17 and continuous teacher assessment.
Summer 1 Revision on chapters 1-17 for the combined science GCSE exam.  Revision on chapters 1-18 for the separate science  GCSE Biology exam.    
Summer 2 Revision on chapters 1-17 for the combined science GCSE exam.  Revision on chapters 1-18 for the separate science  GCSE Biology exam.   GCSE Examination. 

Extended Learning

Year 10

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Kerboodle; BBC Bitesize Science; Free Science Lessons; Seneca Learning Science; Kahoot!; Focus eLearning.  AQA GCSE Combined Science Trilogy textbook; AQA GCSE Biology Trilogy revision guide.  Science Museum; Natural History Museum; Epping Forest; Science Documentaries on BBC.   

 

Year 11

Websites Read Visit or Watch Extra
Kerboodle; BBC Bitesize Science; Free Science Lessons; Seneca Learning Science; Kahoot!; Focus eLearning.  AQA GCSE Combined Science Trilogy textbook; AQA GCSE Biology Trilogy revision guide.  Science Museum; Natural History Museum; Epping Forest; Science Documentaries on BBC.   

 

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