KS5 (A Level) Curriculum

Biology is the study of life on every scale, from large ecosystems like rainforests to a single antibiotic-resistant bacterium, from the nervous system to DNA and biochemistry. The study of Biology at A level will allow you to discover how diverse the natural world really is.

Course Content & Assessment

Course content

Our students will follow the A-level Biology course (7401/7402) which is divided into 8 units:

1. Biological molecules

2. Cells

3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment

4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

5. Energy transfers in and between organisms

6. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments

7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems

8. The control of gene expression

Assessments 

Paper Content, Duration of exam, Style of Questions, Percentage of A-level marks

1 Any content from topics 1-4 including relevant practical skills, 2 hours, A mixture of short & long questions an extended response question, 35%

2 Any content from topics 5–8 including relevant practical skills, 2 hours, A mixture of short & long questions & a comprehension question, 35%

3 Any content from topics 1–8 including relevant practical skills, 2 hours, Structured questions, critical analysis of experimental data & one essay, 30%

There are also 12 compulsory “required practicals” that must be completed over the two years in order to qualify for the Practical Endorsement.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

An A level in Biology will allow you access to a tremendous range of opportunities in higher education and beyond.

University: Many of our students go on to university to study Biology related subjects like medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy, neuroscience, biochemistry, psychology, sports science, biotechnology or biomedical science.

Careers: Opportunities exist in many areas including the food industry, plant and animal breeding, the health and medical professions, sport, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, nature conservancy, medical engineering, research, education and politics. Biology is a stimulating, relevant and absorbing subject. During their A level course many students develop an enthusiasm for Biology which stays with them for the rest of their lives, whether or not they pursue a Biological career.