The AQA A Level GCE Biology specification is a natural progression route for those learners who enjoyed Biology at GCSE, especially those taking Triple Science. 

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This course will encourage you to:

• develop an interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology.

• appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.

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Entry requirements

For Biology A Level  a grade 6 is required at GCSE Core AND Additional Science or a 6 grade in Biology GCSE.

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Course Content

Biology A Level is designed to be taken over 2 years with all assessments
taken at the end of the course.

 

Year 12  Biology       

• Topic 1— Biological Molecules

• Topic 2— Cells

• Topic 3—Organisms exchange substances with their environment

• Topic 4—Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

 

Year 13 Biology

• Topics 1—4 from AS Biology

• Topic 5 – Energy transfers in and between organisms

• Topic 6 – Organisms respond to changes in their  internal and external environments

• Topic 7—Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems

• Topic 8—The control of gene expression

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Assessment

A Level Biology

• Paper 1 - any content from topics 1-4 and practical skills

• 2 hours 35% of A Level grade

 

• Paper 2 - any content from topics 5-8 and practical skills

• 2 hours 35% of A Level grade

 

• Paper 3 - any content from topics 1-8 and practical skills

• 2 hours 30% of A Level grade

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• Non exam unit - Practical assessment in biology Pass/Fail

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Future Prospects

Biology links well with other subjects at Level 3, developing analytical skills that can be utilised in other subjects.

A good grade in Biology A Level is a requirement for some university courses in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and other medically related degrees. A Level Biology also provides a useful background to a wide variety of higher education courses, for example radiography, nursing, physiotherapy, pharmacology, pharmacy, psychology, forensic science, marine biology, biological science, ecology, sports studies, biochemistry, accountancy and even teacher training.

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