GCSE Biology Foundation Tier

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.

Course Benefits

Split into 8 units, every element of this course seeks to expand your understanding of Biology, so you can achieve the theoretical knowledge you need to pass your exam.

This course will allow you to:

• Get an AQA GCSE Biology foundation tier Qualification
• Access support from our exam experts, who will give you feedback and support
• Study for your GCSE from the comfort of home, at your own pace

Course Units

Qualification Number: 601/8752/9

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.

Required Knowledge

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

Awarding Body

Support

When you enrol to study GCSE courses with us, you’ll be enrolling into a learning journey where you are supported every step of the way.

We understand that preparing for exams can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, we are committed to providing you with all the support you need to succeed.

Our study guides and materials have been created to make studying for your GCSE’s as engaging and accessible as possible. Our team of personal tutors and support staff will be on-hand to offer advice, guidance, and feedback.

We provide a range of self-assessment exercises and tutor-marked study questions to help you understand and consolidate your learning, and our tutors will work with you to guide and mentor you towards success.

We’re firm believers that no student should feel alone in their studies, and our team is committed to giving you the support you need to reach your full potential. Whether you have a quick question or require more detailed guidance, rest assured that our team is here to help you.