FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Edexcel B A-Level Biology
Course Options
For teaching from September 2015
"Fieldwork is an essential part of biology and is a compulsory activity as part of the practical skills for
Biology. It can also provide opportunities to address the new mathematical requirements and, of course,
fieldwork has the power to engage students in a way that complements what they learn in the
classroom!" Edexcel Biology examiner
Juniper Hall is an amazing location for fieldwork, set in a quiet wooded valley in an unspoilt area of the chalk North
Downs at the edge of Box Hill (less than 10 minutes from the M25). The centre is close to stunning deciduous
woodlands, rivers, grasslands and is within reach of the amazing coastline around Birling Gap, offering fantastic
opportunities to study primary succession and the rocky shore. Juniper Hall is leased from the National Trust, and is a
superb country house dating from the 17th century. The combination of great ecological field sites, superb internet
connectivity (including Wi-Fi), workrooms that all have interactive and standard whiteboards, visualisers and access to
laptops and iPads, Juniper Hall is ideal for many field courses.
Our new courses are designed to fit the criteria of the specifications for first teaching in 2015. As such they are
designed to:

Incorporate a number of core practicals, apparatus and technique skills, and mathematical skills that
students must complete before taking exams. These also go towards the practical endorsement students
must complete. The A-level will examine practical skills and can appear in all three final papers.

Cover a wide range of topics from the specification and, in particular, topics 3 and 10 of the Edexcel B
specification. We will also cover a range of mathematical skills that will account for up to 10% of marks in
the exam papers. Can also link to the extended project easily which can prepare students for university.

Help to deliver a rich practical experience for students that goes above and beyond the 16 core practicals, as
recommended by Edexcel. Works within the recommendation of the specification that states ‘Using a
variety of apparatus and techniques, students should be able to design and carry out both the core practical
activities and their own investigations, collecting data which can be analysed and used to
draw valid conclusions’.
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Content (including mathematical skills)
Specification links, Core Practicals,
Assessment Skills & additional
information
Freshwater sampling techniques & trophic structure
Students will examine microhabitats within a stream ecosystem to investigate the
effect of abiotic factors on the distribution of freshwater invertebrates (10.1, 10.3).
Students will carry out a risk assessment of the investigative fieldwork. After examining
various sampling techniques in a freshwater environment, students will sample
invertebrates using kick sampling and measure abiotic factors, such as velocity (10.1,
10.3). Organisms will be identified using dichotomous keys with taxa classified to at
least Family level (3.1). Students will also make light and dark algal bottles and
calculate rate of photosynthesis and productivity (10.2).
Data will be collated and analysed using bar graphs and can be further analysed using
measures of dispersion (standard deviation and range) and/or statistical analysis using
chi-squared however, other analysis can be done on request (10.1). Data will be related
to a discussion on NPP calculations and trophic levels with an explanation of the
relationship between NPP, GPP & plant respiration (10.1, 10.2). The efficiency of
energy transfer will also be considered (10.2).
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Maths Skills:
MS1.3: Construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams and bar charts
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for
physical quantities
MS2.4: Solve algebraic equations
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Freshwater pollution
Students will undertake a field work investigation to compare the health of a local river
that may be subjected to fertiliser run-off (Tillingbourne or Mole) (10.1). Levels of
organic pollution will be measured using Biotic Index and nutrient content analysis
(10.1). This will be used to examine the causes and impacts of eutrophication (10.3).
Species richness and diversity can also be examined within the freshwater ecosystem
(3.1). Data will be analysed and evaluated in the classroom including statistical analysis
using chi-squared (10.1).
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates of
the size of a population.
AND/OR
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Maths Skills:
MS1.3: Construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams and bar charts
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for
physical quantities
MS2.4: Solve algebraic equations
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT5: Produce scientific drawing from
observation with annotations
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling, or
data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
Field site(s):
All year round: River Tillingbourne. Transport Required
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling, or
data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates of
the size of a population.
Field site(s):
All year round: River Tillingbourne –Transport Required.
River Mole – No Transport Required (Only available at
some times of year).
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Succession (Primary): Salt Marshes and Shingle Ridge
An investigation of primary succession of plant communities (pioneer to climax
community) across a superb saltmarsh ecosystem at Pagham Harbour (10.3).
Identification of plants will go to at least family level or further (3.1). Through gaining
knowledge of and selecting sampling techniques, students will collect biotic data along
a belt transect, using point or frame quadrats to assess the distribution of plant
communities in relation to abiotic (climatic and edaphic) gradients, with exemplars of
pioneers species (e.g. Salicornia) and changes through to climax communities
(10.1/10.3).
Groups can then travel a short distance to Selsey Beach where random sampling can be
done to look at two zones of a shingle ridge and see how primary plant succession
changes with distance inland. This supports the shingle ridge work and gives a second
example of primary succession for students.
Interpretation of biotic and abiotic data using spreadsheets and graphical techniques,
including kite diagrams and scatter graphs. There will be an opportunity for students to
also carry out a Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient (10.1). Students can also
calculate diversity going back through the salt marsh ecosystem (3.3). Discussion of
plant communities, using named examples, and their relation to the abiotic factors,
including adaptations e.g. halophytes (10.1, 10.3). Discussion of the effects of
management and conservation on the area, including the impact of climate change in
determining climax communities (10.4). Availability of this day will be tide dependent.
Maths Skills:
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.7: Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for
physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Succession (Secondary): Lithosere
An investigation of secondary succession of plant communities (plagioclimax to climax
community) across a grassland/woodland ecosystem (10.3) at Mickleham Downs.
Through gaining knowledge of and selecting sampling techniques, students will collect
biotic data along a belt transect, using frame or point quadrats to assess the
distribution of plant communities in relation to abiotic (climatic and edaphic) gradients
(10.1, 10.3). Identification of plants will go to at least Family level or further (3.1).
Interpretation of biotic and abiotic data using spreadsheets and graphical techniques,
including kite diagrams. Discussion of plant communities, using named examples, and
their relation to the abiotic factors, including adaptations (10.1, 10.3). There will be an
opportunity for students to also carry out a Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient
(10.1). Students can also calculate diversity going back through the grassland
ecosystem (3.3). Discussion of the effects of management and conservation on the
area, including the impact of climate change in determining climax communities (10.4).
Maths Skills:
As above for Primary Succession
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantitative measurements
AT7: Separate biological compounds using
thin layer/paper chromatography
or electrophoresis
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure: plant or animal responses;
physiological functions
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling, or
data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
Core Practical 11: Investigate the presence
of different chloroplast pigments using
chromatography.
AND/OR
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates of
the size of a population.
AND/OR
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Field site(s): Pagham Harbour & Selsey. Transport Reqd.
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantitative measurements
AT7: Separate biological compounds using
thin layer/paper chromatography
or electrophoresis
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure: plant or animal responses;
physiological functions
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling, or
data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
Core Practicals: As above for Primary
Succession.
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Ecology Sampling Techniques: Grasslands
Investigations into a grassland ecosystem to explore sampling techniques and
biodiversity within a community (10.1). This will include development what an
ecosystem is, how they can range in size, how they can be sampled (including transects,
quadrats, ACFOR scales percentage cover and individual counts) and how to analyse
these (10.1). Both investigations will calculate the Index of Diversity (3.3), look at how
we can classify organisms (3.1) and produce scientific drawings from observation.
Investigation 1: The use of belt transects to investigate the distribution of grassland
plants across a slope, looking at the effects of trampling (10.1, 10.3). This will include
the use of keys to identify species and data collection using quadrats. Discussion of
niche, competition and the effects of biotic and abiotic factors in determining numbers
and distribution of organisms in a habitat (10.1, 10.3). Analysis and interpretation of
data using graphical techniques and the Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient (10.1).
Students will evaluate methodology, data & evidence (10.1, 10.3).
Maths Skills:
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.7: Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for
physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Investigation 2: Random sampling and percentage cover &/or frequency measurements
using quadrats to compare the distribution of grassland plants between areas of high
and low trampling (10.1, 10.3). This will include the use of keys to identify species and
data collection using quadrats. Discussion of niche, competition and the effects of biotic
and abiotic factors in determining numbers and distribution of organisms in a habitat
(10.1, 10.3). Analysis and interpretation of data using graphical techniques and the
height of vegetation (Student t-test) (10.1). Students will evaluate methodology, data &
evidence (10.1, 10.3).
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT5: Produce scientific drawing from
observation with annotations
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling, or
data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates of
the size of a population.
AND/OR
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Field site(s): Burford Spur, Box Hill
No Transport Required
Maths Skills:
MS1.2: Find arithmetic mean
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5: Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.6: Understand the terms mean, median and mode
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for
physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Zonation & adaptations: Rocky Shore
An exciting fieldwork study focusing on the zonation of lichens, seaweeds and animals
down a rocky shore (10.1, 10.3). Students will identify organisms and quantify them
using ACFOR scale on a vertical belt transect (10.1). Identification of algae will go to
at least Family level or further (3.1). Students will use their data to examine the effect
of abiotic and biotic gradients on the distribution of organisms, including interspecific
and intraspecific competition in Barnacle species (10.1, 10.3). The behavioural,
physiological and anatomical adaptations of organisms to harsh conditions and
change due to these environmental conditions will also be considered (10.1, 10.3).
Students present data graphically. Depending on your preferred focus it is possible to
do a variety of measurements to carry out your preferred statistical analysis (t-test,
Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient or Chi-Squared) (10.1). Availability of this
day will be tide dependent.
Maths Skills:
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.7: Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units
for physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT7: To separate biological compounds
using paper chromatography
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling,
or data logger to collect data, or use
software to process data
Core Practical 11: Investigate the presence
of different chloroplast pigments using
chromatography.
AND/OR
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates
of the size of a population.
AND/OR
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Field site(s): Hope Gap, Sussex Coast- Transport
required
Ecology Sampling Techniques: Woodlands
Investigation into a woodland ecosystem to explore sampling techniques and
distribution according to biotic aspects (such as interspecific and intraspecific
competition) and survival in response to abiotic environmental conditions (10.1,
10.3). There will also be consideration given to the major importance of
microorganisms recycling nutrients within the ecosystem (10.2). Random sampling
and percentage cover measurements using quadrat and identification/classification
(3.1) will be used to compare the distribution of woodland plants between coppiced
and mature woodlands (10.1) as well as abiotic measurements. Analysis and
interpretation of data using graphical techniques and either the t-test or Chi-Squared
(10.1) Students will make conclusions and evaluate methodology, data & evidence.
There will also be discussions to examine effective management and sustainability of
the wood supply (10.4).
MS1.2: Find arithmetic mean
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5: Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.6: Understand the terms mean, median and mode
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units
for physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT5: Produce scientific drawing from
observation with annotations
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling,
or data logger to collect data, or use
software to process data
Core Practical 15: Investigate the effect of
different sampling methods on estimates
of the size of a population.
AND/OR
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Field site(s): Box Hill. No Transport Required
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Juniper Hall Field Centre
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Individual Investigations
Students will design and implement an investigation, to solve a scientific question of
their choosing using the investigative skills built through previous studies. In small
groups they will carry out experimental and investigative activities, including
appropriate risk management, to test their hypothesis. The groups will collect,
present, analyse (including statistics) and interpret data in a variety of formats that
can include ArcGIS, PowerPoint, and Google Earth. This project will focus on
consolidating apparatus and technique skills, mathematical skills and practical
endorsement which will help students to prepare and get real understanding for their
final exams. This can also be used for the Extended Project qualification that can sit
alongside the Biology A-Level.
Potential Maths Skills:
MS1.3: Construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams and bar charts
MS1.4: Understand simple probability
MS1.5 Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
MS1.7: Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables
MS1.9: Select and use a statistical test
MS2.1: Understand and use of symbols
MS2.3: Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units
for physical quantities
MS3.2: Plot two variables from experimental or other data
Links to:
Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Apparatus & Technique Skills:
AT1: Use appropriate apparatus to record a
range of quantatative measurements
AT5: Produce scientific drawing from
observation with annotations
AT8: Safely and ethically use organisms to
measure plant or animal responses
AT11: Use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT12: Use ICT such as computer modelling,
or data logger to collect data, or use
software to process data
Core Practical 16: Investigate the effect of
one abiotic factor on the distribution or
morphology of one species.
Field site(s): Wide variety of habitats across Juniper
Hall and Box Hill (plus others if required)
There are a number of shorter activities that can also be included in the course that can be built into your
programme:
Population Dynamics
A study of the population dynamics of the Holly Leaf Miner. Identification of mortality
factors and calculation of population survival rates (10.1, 10.3). Discussion of limiting
factors, carrying capacity and predator prey relationships (10.1, 10.3). How farming
practices such as chemical and biological control, increase energy efficiency.
Consideration of conservation and management (10.4).
Estimating populations (5.2)
Mark release recapture will be used to determine an estimate of population size. This
can be done using organisms such as woodlice, Ramshorn snails, pond snails or
grasshoppers (10.1, 10.3)
Alternatively a study can be done through the humane trapping of small mammals
using Longworth traps.
Links to:
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Field site(s): Juniper Hall (No Transport Required)
Links to:
Topic 10: Ecosystems
Field site(s): Juniper Hall (No Transport Required)
We are hoping to be able to offer PCR experiments at Juniper Hall from September 2015.
Please contact us for more information.
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW
FIELD STUDIES COUNCIL
Edexcel B A-Level Biology Course Options
Juniper Hall Field Centre
What is included in the fee?
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Up to 10 hours of tuition a day
Expert tuition, from fully trained staff
Full board accommodation. Catering includes cooked breakfast, packed lunch, homemade cakes and evening
meal.
Use of facilities including workrooms, recreational space, ICT and centre grounds
Established health and safety procedures and 24 hour emergency cover
Access to specialist equipment and resources
Support before and following the course
Transport all field sites, where required, during the course ( not included in course fee)
Tuition is delivered by talented teachers, with not only an expert knowledge of their subject and field work
locations, but a passion for the subject being taught. Our education team are fully DBS checked, and
undergo a regular and rigorous training process. All tutors have received training in first aid, risk
assessment and water safety.
Course options listed in this booklet can be selected to put together a programme designed to meet the
requirements of your specification. However, if you need something that is not catered for in the field
work investigations, please contact us to discuss possible alternatives.
External Recognition of Quality
Juniper Hall has been awarded the Quality Badge by The Council for Learning Outside the
Classroom. The badge is awarded to organisations that have demonstrated that they
consistently deliver high quality teaching and learning experiences and manage risk
effectively.
This means that you will have to complete less paperwork when visiting our centre
To make a booking or if you have an enquiry:
Call us on 01306 734501
Email us at: [email protected]
FSC Juniper Hall, Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DA
Tel: 01306 734501
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.field-studies-council.org/centres/juniperhall.aspx
Field Studies Council is a limited Company, registered in England and Wales No. 412621 and a Charity No. 313364. Registered Office; Preston Montford, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HW