Biology is the science of living things. A biologist tries to find out more about how plants and animals work. Biologists like to know more about what goes on inside you, and inside other plants and animals too. Biology is also concerned with why there are so many different kinds of plants and animals. To a biologist the natural world is full of questions just waiting to be answered. At MCB, everyone studies Biology up to Form 5. After that, pupils can choose to do Biology at AS and A2 level. In the Biology Department, we aim: - to develop an enjoyment of, and interest in, Biology.
- to develop an understanding of scientific methods.
- to teach the essential knowledge and understanding of some of the main areas of Biology, and also the skills necessary for pupils to be able to make use of Biology in new and changing situations in today’s and tomorrow’s society.
- to give pupils a scientific training, either as an end in itself or as an appropriate foundation for further study of Biology or related subjects at KS4, A Level and beyond.
STAFF - Mrs CL McCluggage Head of Biology
- Mr DF McReynolds
- Mr AF Patrick
- Mr JG McCluggage
- Dr MLS Anderson
- Dr RP Campton
- Mr AH Watson
- Mr CW Finlay
- Dr CA Burnett
FACILITIES AND RESOURCES As far as possible, each lesson includes some practical activities, including experiments, investigations, videos, ICT exercises, discussions and debates. | |  | | | | This photograph shows some of the models of cells made by Form 1 pupils. | |
CURRICULUM Form 1 - Cells, tissues and organs
- Reproduction (plants and humans)
Form 2 - Plant Nutrition
- Human diet and digestion
- Ecology (how animals and plants interact with their environments)
- Variation and Classification
Form 3 - Circulation
- Breathing
- Respiration and movement
- Adaptation and selection
- Healthy lifestyle
In Forms 4 and 5 all pupils at Methodist College study Biology as part of a Double Award Science course. In AS Biology we study two modules: - Molecules, cells and systems
- Making use of Biology
In A2 Biology we study two modules: - Inheritance, evolution and ecosystems (During this module, classes attend a residential field trip.)
- Physiology and the environment
EXTRA CURRICULAR There are two societies that are related to the Biology Department. They are - The Natural History Society
- ECO (The Environment and Conservation Organisation)
The Natural History Society is essentially a film club, open to pupils of all ages, that exists to celebrate the wonders of wildlife photography and broadcasting. ECO is a group of pupils and staff who have a common interest in learning about and working with our environment. The group meets once a week to engage in debates and discussions on environmental issues, such as endangered species, recycling and “green” living. More information can be found by clicking on the links to the College Activities section of the website. |
