Biology literally means the study of life and if that’s not important, what is?  Being such a broad topic, you’re bound to find a specific area of interest, plus it opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting careers.   

A Level Biology gives you essential information and understanding of key biological concepts, and inspires their application to the world at large, as well as in the lab.  Students will also consider the moral, social, and cultural issues surrounding some of the applications of biology. An emphasis on the development of communication and study skills will help prepare students for involvement in everyday scientific issues and give skills essential in the world of work. A Level Biology, although a challenging subject, is rightly recognised for its academic achievement by both employees and higher education establishments.  

Course content and assessment criteria 

• Biological molecules 
• Cells 
• Organisms and the environment 
• Genetics and diversity 
• Energy and biological systems 
• Organisms response to their environment 
• Genetics and Evolution 
• Genetic technology 

Practical work runs throughout the course; a minimum of 12 required practicals. On consultation, it is possible to study a 1 year AS Level in Biology, completing topics 1–4 only (you will need three other subjects). 

 

Assessment A Level

A linear course with all exams taken at the end of Year 13 

Paper 1: Topics 1– 4, including relevant practical skills (35%, 2 hours) 

Paper 2: Topics 5 – 8, including relevant practical skills (35%, 2 hours) 

Paper 3: Topics 1– 8, including relevant practical skills, plus critical analysis of given experimental data and a 25-mark synoptic essay (30%, 2 hours) 

Students will be examined internally at the end of Year 12. 

Assessment AS Level 

All exams taken at the end of Year 12  

Paper 1: 10 marks: comprehension question  (50%, 1 hour 30 minutes)  

Paper 2: 10 marks, extended response questions (50%, 1 hour 30 minutes) 

Papers 1 and 2: Topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills, 65 marks, short answer questions. 

Pass/Fail Practical endorsement for biology – this is continuous throughout Year 12 and Year 13 and is teacher assessed. 

 

Exam Board: AQA 

Entry Requirements: Biology 6 and an average of 6 across the three single sciences or 6,6 in Combined Science. In addition, 5 in English Literature or Language and 5 in Maths.    

Suitable course if you are interested in: developing biological concepts, using microscopes, dissecting animal and plant systems, learning laboratory techniques, fieldwork, investigating animal behaviours, applying biological principles to personal, social, environmental and economic issues. 

Future paths: medicine, veterinary fields and pharmacy, biomedical sciences, forensics, agriculture and animal care, food technology, health and social care, research, epidemiology 

This subject goes well with: chemistry, physics, maths, psychology, geography, PE, art