A LEVEL AQA 7402
Course Contact: Karen de Boer – karendeboer@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Triple Science: Minimum Grade 7 in Biology and minimum Grade 6 in the other sciences.
Combined Science: Minimum Grade 7-7 in Combined Science.
Students should also have a good understanding of scientific principles, an interest in the natural world and a willingness to develop their analytical, investigative and practical skills.
WHAT WILL I DO?
The AQA A-Level Biology course develops students' understanding of living organisms, from molecules and cells to entire ecosystems. It builds on GCSE Biology and explores how biological systems function, interact and evolve.
The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, encouraging students to think critically, analyse data and apply scientific concepts to real-world situations.
Practical work is an integral part of the course, with students completing a series of required practical activities that develop investigative, analytical and laboratory skills. These skills are assessed both through written examinations and the Practical Endorsement.
The qualification is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13 and provides excellent preparation for university courses and careers in biological sciences, medicine, healthcare, environmental science, biotechnology and related fields.
WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
A Level Biology is suited to students who have an interest in living organisms, the natural world and the scientific processes that shape life.
It is particularly suitable for students who enjoy investigating how the human body works, exploring genetics and evolution, understanding ecosystems and discovering how biological science can help address real-world challenges.
Students should enjoy problem-solving, analysing information and interpreting scientific data, as well as being willing to develop their practical laboratory skills.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The AQA A-Level Biology qualification covers a wide range of biological topics across eight main areas:
- Biological molecules
- Cells
- Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- The control of gene expression
Students develop their understanding of biological concepts through classroom learning, independent study, practical investigations and scientific research.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATIONS
The AQA A-Level Biology qualification is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13.
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Paper
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Content
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Assessment
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Paper 1
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Topics 1–4
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2 hours – 35%
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Paper 2
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Topics 5–8
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2 hours – 35%
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Paper 3
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Topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills and data analysis
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2 hours – 30%
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All three examinations include a mixture of question styles, including multiple-choice, short-answer and extended-response questions.
PRACTICAL ENDORSEMENT
Practical work is an essential part of A Level Biology. Students complete 12 required practical activities throughout the course, developing their ability to plan investigations, use laboratory equipment, collect and analyse data and evaluate experimental methods.
Students are assessed on their practical competency throughout the course. The Practical Endorsement is reported separately from the A Level grade as either a Pass or Not Classified.
The practical skills developed are valuable preparation for further study and careers involving scientific investigation and laboratory work.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
Students will receive regular feedback through classroom assessments, practical investigations, examination-style questions and discussions about their progress.
Opportunities for independent study, self-assessment and teacher feedback will help students identify strengths, address misconceptions and develop their examination technique.
Students will be encouraged to develop four key areas of scientific understanding:
- Knowledge and understanding: Developing a secure understanding of biological concepts, terminology and scientific principles.
- Application: Applying biological knowledge to unfamiliar situations and real-world contexts.
- Analysis and evaluation: Interpreting data, evaluating evidence and drawing appropriate scientific conclusions.
- Practical skills: Planning investigations, using equipment safely and accurately, recording results and evaluating experimental procedures.
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PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A Level Biology provides an excellent foundation for further study and a wide range of career opportunities.
The qualification is particularly valuable for students considering university courses and careers in the biological sciences, medicine, healthcare and environmental science.
Possible progression routes include:
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Veterinary Science
- Biomedical Science
- Biology and Biological Sciences
- Biochemistry and Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacy and Pharmacology
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Physiotherapy and Sports Science
- Environmental Science and Ecology
- Biotechnology and Microbiology
Students may also progress into scientific apprenticeships, laboratory-based careers, healthcare professions, research and conservation.
The analytical, problem-solving and practical skills developed throughout the course are valuable across a wide range of further education, higher education and employment opportunities.