GCSE Biology Foundation Tier

Association of Learning

About This Course

Our GCSE Biology Foundation Tier online course is your gateway to understanding living organisms. Designed for those aspiring to pursue A-Level Biology, enter biology-related fields, or simply expand their knowledge, this course offers flexibility and recognition.

The foundation tier of GCSE Biology covers the fundamental concepts and principles of biology. It focuses on core topics rather than the more advanced aspects offered in the higher tier. The foundation tier allows for students to achieve grades in the range of 1-5 (with 5 being the highest). It’s intended for students who may find Biology difficult and would like a more accessible method of passing the exam.

You’ll be supported every step of the way by our dedicated personal tutors, who will be there whenever you need them to provide guidance, feedback, and advice on how to ace your exam.

Achieve your GCSEs from home, without the pressure of the classroom, assignments, and constant quizzes!

While it’s possible to complete this course without exams and practicals, taking them is essential to achieve the GCSE Biology qualification.

Please keep in mind that the foundation tier has a maximum grade of 5. Students aiming for grades 6-9 can take a look at our GCSE Biology Higher Tier course.

Qualification Title: GCSE Biology Foundation Tier
Qualification Number: 601/8752/9

Course Units

Unit 1: Cell Biology

• Cell Structure and Function
• Microscopes and Cell Division (Mitosis and Meiosis)

Unit 2: Organisation

• The Human Circulatory System
• The Human Respiratory System
• The Digestive System
• Enzymes and Digestion
• The Human Excretory System

Unit 3: Infection and Response

• Communicable Diseases and Pathogens
• The Immune System and Vaccination
• Antibiotics and Drug Resistance

Unit 4: Bioenergetics

• Photosynthesis
• Cellular Respiration
• Energy transfers in living organisms

Unit 5: Homeostasis and Response

• The Nervous System and Control of Body Functions
• The Endocrine System and Hormones
• Homeostasis and Negative Feedback Mechanisms

Unit 6: Inheritance, Variation, and Evolution

• DNA, Genes, and Chromosomes
• Genetic Inheritance (Punnett Squares, Genetic Crosses)
• Genetic Mutations
• Natural Selection and Evolution

Unit 7: Ecology

• Ecosystems and Interdependence
• Biotic and Abiotic Factors
• Adaptations and Food Webs
• Human Impact on the Environment

Unit 8: Key Ideas

• The Scientific Method and Experimental Design
• The Use of Models in Biology
• The Role of Ethics in Science

Assessment

To successfully achieve a Biology GCSE, you will be required to sit and pass two GCSE written exams, as well as a practical examination. You will need to complete these under the supervision of an examiner at an exam centre. There is a separate fee for the examinations, which are paid directly to the exam centre at the time of booking. We’ll help you book your exams when you’re ready (to ensure your place, we recommend booking well in advance). Exams take place in May & June.

Paper 1

This is a written exam, and will take 1 hour and 45 minutes. It’s worth 50% of your total GCSE mark. The exam assesses units 1-4 (Cell Biology, Organisation, Infection and Response, and Bioenergetics).

Paper 2

This is a written exam and will take 1 hour and 45 minutes. Similar to paper 1, it is weighted as 50% of your marks. In this paper, you will be assessed on units 5-7 (Homeostasis and Response, Inheritance, Variation and Evolution, and Ecology).

Practical Assessment

Practicals are required to achieve this qualification but if you are unable to participate, you can enrol on the IGCSE Biology instead. In this qualification, you would not be required to complete the practicals, however examination is still required.

No prior knowledge or skills in this area are needed to enrol onto this course.

Assessment

You will first complete the assessments included in your course materials. These will be marked by your dedicated tutor and will prepare you for your exam.

Exams

You are required to complete 2 written exams that take place in May and June. Each exam is worth 50% of your overall GCSE mark.

• Paper 1: 1 hr 45 mins written exam, 50% of marks.
• Paper 2: 1 hr 45 mins written exam, 50% of marks.

Exam Fees

There is a separate fee for the examinations paid directly to the exam centre at the time of booking. We’ll help you book them when you are ready.