Advanced - Biology

EXAM BOARD: AQA

AIM OF THE COURSE
The AQA 2015 syllabus aims to give a grounding in all the major aspects on Biology and practical experience is integrated throughout the entire course. Any biological interest from the workings of the human body, botany, how our cells and genes work to a desire to protect our natural world will be nurtured and deepened during your studies.

YEAR 12 SUMMARY
The Year 12 course consists of 4 topics as follows:
1. Biological molecules
2. Cells
3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment
4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

YEAR 13 SUMMARY
The course incorporates all of the topics covered in Year 12 and in addition to four further topics:
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

Assessment Weighting
• Paper 1 Any content from topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills 35% 2 hr exam – May/June
• Paper 2 Any content from topics 5-8, including relevant practical skills 35% 2 hr exam – May/June
• Paper 3 Any content from topics 1–8, including relevant practical skills 30% 2 hr exam – May/June
Practical endorsement in biology - Reported separately

CAREER PROSPECTS
Biology A Level opens a variety of doors for students. Many continue their studies at university on degrees including medicine, veterinary studies, environmental biology, teaching, physiotherapy, pharmacology, radiotherapy, dentistry and conservation to name but a few. It is also a useful qualification to those entering jobs such as environmental health, dental, nursing, various research posts and food production posts. 

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