Post-16 Biology

Freshwater ecology investigations - stream Stratified sampling (kick sampling) of riffles and pools in a stream will be carried out to sample size and abundance of animal species in relation to abiotic factors. Data presentation and Analysis Chi-squared statistical test of size of freshwater shrimp (and Simpson’s Diversity if required ) and interpreting the result.

Freshwater ecology investigations - pond April-October Stratified sampling (sweep sampling technique) of ponds will be carried out to sample distribution and abundance of animal species in relation to abiotic factors. Data presentation and Analysis Chi-squared statistical test of size of trophic levels and interpreting the result.

Plant species investigations - woodland succession April-October Systematic sampling will be used to study the abiotic and biotic factors of succession on the distribution and abundance of plant species from grassland into woodland. Data presentation and Analysis Spearman’s Rank statistical test and interpreting the result. Option of planning investigation independently (to include research and referencing) between day 1 and 2 to meet CPAC requirement.

Plant species investigations – random sampling April-October Random sampling will be used to investigate the height or leaf length of a named species in two contrasting areas. Data presentation and Analysis Student’s t-test statistical test and interpreting the result. Population size investigations - capture-mark-release-recapture use capture-mark-release-recapture to investigate the population size of a mobile terrestrial species (woodlouse). Data presentation and Analysis Lincoln Index and interpreting the result.

Specification links:

AQA 3.7.4. Populations in Ecosystems Required practical 12: Investigation into the effect of a named environmental factor on the distribution of a given species.

OCR Biology A Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease 4.2.1 Biodiversity PAG3 Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems 6.3.1 Ecosystems PAG3

Residential facilities available in our unique wooden 4-person eco pods. Combine your field work with some of our adventurous activities. Contact us to discuss availability. Confirmation will follow from receipt of your completed booking form.

We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful venue in the heart of Epping Forest!