A-Level Programme - Biology

You will study:

• Biological molecules
• Cells exchange and transport and biodiversity
• Energy transfers in and between organisms
• How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment
• Genetics
• Populations and evolution systems and control of gene expression

The course is taught in theory and practical sessions for 4.5 hours per week. Students are expected to complete independent study tasks outside of the lessons on a weekly basis. Various teaching methods are used throughout the course. Practical laboratory sessions are particularly important and the development of investigative skills is fostered. The written examination includes questions on experimental work and handling of data from experiments. All exams are taken at the end of the second year of study.

Exam information

Paper 1 lasts 2 hours, 35% of the marks. Short and long response written questions with one extended response question. Paper 2 lasts 2 hours, 35% of the marks. Short and long response written questions with one comprehension question. Paper 3 lasts 2 hours, 30% of the marks. Structured questions including practical techniques, critical analysis of experimental data and one essay question.

For the generic A-Level Programme you will need:

GCSE grade 4 or above in English Language and Maths, plus at least 3 more GCSEs at grade 5 or above

For this specific A-Level you will need

GCSE grade 4 and above in English Language, Grade 6 or above in Biology (6-5 in Combined Science) and Maths and at least 2 others at grade 5 or above