A level Biology

What will I study?

Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from microorganisms to mammals. Biology is never far from the headlines either. Current topics in the news include stories about human cloning, stem cell research, the problems caused by cutting down rainforests, AIDS and genetically modified foods.

Course Content

A Level Biology is a two year course. It is taught through a combination of practical and theory sessions, using interactive materials to bring up to the minute information into lessons. In the stand alone AS units, you will study three main topics: “Biology and Disease”, “The variety of living organisms” and a practical assignment which is designed to sharpen your investigative skills. The assignment is set and marked by the exam board and is completed in lesson time - so you don’t have to spend weeks researching a written piece of coursework. The full A Level course helps you build on this firm foundation of biological knowledge. The two academic topics studied are “Populations and Environment” and “Control in Cells and Organisms”. A second exam board-set practical assignment allows you to investigate a different area of Biology.

Assessment

Paper 1

written exam : 2 hours

35% of A-Level

91 marks split into:

76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions

15 marks: extended response questions

Paper 2

written exam : 2 hours

35% of A-Level

91 marks split into:

76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions

15 marks: comprehension questions

Paper 3

written exam : 2 hours

30% of A-Level of which

78 marks split into:

38 marks - structured questions, including practical techniques

15 marks: critical analysis of given experimental data

25 marks: one essay from a choice of two title

Progression

Many students go on to a biologically related degree course such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Optometry, Nursing, Marine Biology, Zoology or Forensic Science, Biotechnology and Pharmacology are growing industries employing many Biology graduates. Biologists are vitally important in such areas as food production, ecology and cell biology. Others choose careers as diverse as law, computing, accounting or teaching.