Biology A Level
Course details
| Course | Exam board | Size |
| A-Level Biology | AQA | 1 A-Level (360 GLH) |
What is A Level Biology all about?
Biology is the natural science that studies life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development and evolution. It is a highly practical subject with significant teaching time spent in the lab performing experiments, developing both knowledge and scientific skills.
Over a 2 year period, students will study Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics, Physiology, Evolution and Ecology which will enable students to pursue a broad range of careers and university degrees.
Examples of careers and courses requiring a foundation in biology include sports scientist, physiotherapist, epidemiologist, food technologist, pharmacologist, personal trainer, nutritionist, biochemist, microbiologist, geneticist, botanist, toxicologist, horticulturalist, wine maker, environmental health officer, product developer, quality control, quality assurance, dietician, nutritionist, haematologist, histopathologist, immunologist, virologist, pathologist, biomedical scientist, environmental analyst, environmental consultant, environmental health officer, environmental planner, forester, oceanographer. Zoology, ecology, immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, physiology, molecular biology, cell biology, chemistry, conservation biology, marine biology, evolution, biodiversity, biogeography, animal behaviour, animal science, agricultural science, environmental science, veterinary science, aquaculture, land management, wildlife management,.
The Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Biology (B) consists of three externally examined papers and the Science Practical Endorsement. Students are expected to carry out the sixteen core practical experiments that are identified in the topics.
Assessment :
Paper 1:
- Topic 1: Biological Molecules
- Topic 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things
- Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity
- Topic 4: Exchange and Transport
- Topic 5: Energy for Biological Processes
- Topic 6: Microbiology and Pathogens
- Topic 7: Modern Genetics
Paper 2:
- Topic 8: Origins of Genetic Variation
- Topic 9: Control Systems
- Topic 10: Ecosystems
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology – selected from topics 1-10
Biology A Level Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Biology or 2 x Grade 6 in Combined Science.
Grade 6 in Maths
Examination Board: AQA