Biology A Level (See Option Blocks on our website)
Science and Mathematics


What will you be working towards?
Code | ND17 |
Qualification Type | GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent |
Qualification Level | Level 3 |
Course type | Full Time |
Overview
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
- Are you interested in the study of living organisms?
- Do you enjoy carrying out laboratory practicals & investigations or fieldwork?
- Are you interested in the �new� developments of biology such as gene technology, forensic science or the impact of biology on society?
- Do you need biology for a career in medicine ( including nursing, pharmacy, psychology, veterinary science, dentistry ), environmental science, food sciences, land management, biotechnology, and many other areas?
Details
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Biological molecules
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Cells
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Organisms exchange substances with their environment
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Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
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Energy transfers in and between organisms
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Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
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Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
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The control of gene expression
How will it be delivered?
Assessments
There are 3 separate papers which cover different sections of the overall subject content.
Paper 1
What's assessed
- Any content from topics 1�4, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 91 marks
- 35% of A-level
Questions
- 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
- 15 marks: extended response questions
Paper 2
What's assessed
- Any content from topics 5�8, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 91 marks
- 35% of A-level
Questions
- 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
- 15 marks: comprehension question
Paper 3
What's assessed
- Any content from topics 1�8, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 78 marks
- 30% of A-level
Questions
- 38 marks: structured questions, including practical techniques
- 15 marks: critical analysis of given experimental data
- 25 marks: one essay from a choice of two titles
Entry requirements
You must have studied GCSE Combined Science (grade 6,6) or Biology GCSE (grade 6), and be competent in Mathematics (grade 5 or above).
Personal qualities needed include:
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An enquiring mind