GCSE Biology (2017)
Following the Minister of Education’s announcement, on 6 January 2021, that all GCSE, AS and A2 exams due to take place in January, February, May and June will be cancelled, we are working to update our subject areas as soon as possible. In the meantime, should you have any queries, please email CCEA Helpline [email protected].
Please note: a Specification Addendum is in place for the 2020/2021 academic year for those candidates completing their course in Summer 2021. View Specification Addendum.
The CCEA GCSE Biology specification provides a broad, coherent and practical course that develops confidence in, and a positive view of, science.
It encourages students to appreciate the value of science in their lives and in the wider world around them. It also gives students opportunities to apply their knowledge and understanding of the nature of science and the scientific process.
Practical science is a key part of this specification, with students carrying out nine prescribed practicals during the course.
Our GCSE science specifications are the only ones to directly examine practical work, a core element of the subject, as part of a unit titled Practical Skills. There is also a written exam for each unit.
All parts of the assessment are externally marked.
This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning.
This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment before the end of the course.
The specification has three units:
- Unit 1: Cells, Living Processes and Biodiversity
- Unit 2: Body Systems, Genetics, Microorganisms and Health
- Unit 3: Practical Skills.
Current Specification
Skills developed through our GCSE Biology
This specification supports the Northern Ireland Curriculum at Key Stage 4 and gives students further opportunities to achieve their potential and develop skills for life. These skills include:
- using mathematics;
- communication;
- using technology in scientific contexts;
- observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills and understanding in laboratory, field and other learning environments; and
- working with others.
Students develop the ability to evaluate claims based on science, both qualitatively and quantitatively, by critically analysing the methodology, evidence and conclusions.
For more information on this specification contact:
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