Full name of specification
AQA A Level Biology 7402
Exam board specification link
https://www2.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/biology-7401-7402
Name of textbook if used
Digital Textbook via Kerboodle Seneca
Why study this course?
Students choose Biology for a number of reasons — perhaps they have a specific career that requires a Biology qualification in mind, or maybe they are simply interested in the human body, or in the natural world around us. Biology covers a broad range of topics and has aspects to interest a wide range of students. Biology is a pre-requisite subject for many degrees in Biological Science and Medical related fields of study.
As with the other sciences, the study of Biology also helps students to build up skills in research, problem solving, organisation and analytical skills. Given the group project work that occurs throughout the course, students also develop good teamwork and communication skills.
What can you expect from this course?
A range of knowledge of how living systems work, including the principles of genetics, molecules, taxonomy, natural selection, evolutionary theory, bacteria and viruses, amongst others.
How is it assessed?
100% examination (3 x written exams, 2 hours each)
What are the entry requirements?
Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology or 66 in GCSE Combined Science
What can I do after completing this qualification?
If you are considering applying to University to study Medicine, Life Sciences, Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Marine Biology, Environmental Science or any other subject related to the natural world, then A-level Biology is essential.
Possible career choices that require A-level Biology include Biotechnology, independent research, Medicine (Doctor, Nurse) Veterinarian, Zoologist and many more.
What will I study? (include unit numbers and names)
- 1 Biological molecules
- 2 Cells
- 3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms (A-level only)
- 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (A-level only)
- 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A-level only)
- 8 The control of gene expression (A-level only)
Additional activities within this subject
Practical assessments have been divided into those that can be assessed in written exams and those that can only be directly assessed whilst students are carrying out experiments.
A-level grades will be based only on marks from written exams.
A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A-level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams.
Wider Reading list
Biological Sciences Review.
An archive of articles from previous issues can be found on the magazine’s website.
Big Picture. This is a free magazine produced by the Wellcome Trust. It is written for post 16 Biology students and explores the innovations and implications of cutting edge biomedical science. Visit the website to access previous issues.
New Scientist This is a weekly science magazine that keeps you up to date http://www.newscientist.com/
Nature. This is an international weekly journal of science. http://www.nature.com/
Useful links or Apps
https://www.senecalearning.com/blog/a-level-biology-revision/
You may also enjoy studying
A Level Chemistry, A Level Psychology
Teachers
Dr. Moore, Mr. Marshall-Clarke