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The KS5 Curriculum
Monk’s Walk School Science department offers students the opportunity to study A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. All three subjects follow the Edexcel specifications at A Level.
A Level Biology
At A level, biologists cover a wide range of topics from ecology to biochemistry, from natural selection to genetic engineering. Though the course is challenging it gives students an insight into the myriad ways life has successfully adapted to its environment. Over the course of the two years students hone their experimental skills both in the lab and, literally, in the field through sixteen two hour practicals. Learning to work from written instructions alone students develop the ability to find creative solutions to those unexpected problems that often arise. For many of our students biology is a stepping-stone to a future career including those who have headed to medical school.
A Level Chemistry
A Level chemistry provides a challenging and diverse course that tries to understand the fundamental principles by which chemical reactions and matter interact. This is studied by looking at ideas from physical chemistry relating to thermodynamics, organic synthesis (involving alcohols, amines, amides and aromatic compounds), and the properties of transition metals and their coloured compounds. Practical skills are developed over the two years including the use of titration, quick fit and a range of data logging equipment. Necessary for the study of medicine or veterinary science, chemistry is also the bedrock for careers in biochemistry, nanotechnology and pharmacology as well as supporting careers in engineering, law and business.
A Level Physics
A Level physics challenging but equally fulfilling subject, A Level Physics aims to understand more about how and why our universe behaves as it does. We achieve this by studying topics with cutting edge discoveries such as astronomy and particle physics, to more classical content such as mechanics and field theory. Although naturally mathematical in nature, practical application and lab work is also an important part of studying physics at A level, including 16 core practicals which the students learn to plan and conduct independently. Many students use physics to continue their studies into physics, engineering and maths - however lots of students also use the skills developed in their other studies. Most recent examples are: psychology, geography, politics and law.
