Biology

Biology Summary

On this A-level course you will learn about biological facts, concepts and principles, do experimental and investigatory work, learn about living organisms and biology in society and about advances in technology relevant to biology. 

If you are interested in genetic engineering, conservation or understanding how we evolved, this this is the course for you. By the end of the course you will know about the principles of genetics, molecules, taxonomy, natural selection, evolutionary theory, global warming, bacteria and viruses, and more. 

You will gain an understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues, as well some of the ways in which the scientific community contributes to the success of the economy and society.

Entry Requirements

• 5 x grade 5 or above (including GCSE Mathematics and English Language)
• Grade 6 in Biology (or 6/6 in Combined Science) 

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA

How you will study

Alongside exploring the subject specific knowledge from each of the sections in the components below you will also be enhancing mathematical skills, developing your use of apparatus and techniques and building practical skills. Each aspect of subject specific content is applied in different contexts so that you can truly explore the application of your knowledge. 

Component breakdown

Paper 1  

• 1 Biological molecules 
• 2 Cells 
• 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment 
• 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms 

Paper 2 

• 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms  
• 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments  
• 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems  
• 8 The control of gene expression  

Paper 3 

• Synoptic Paper 

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