AQA A-Level Biology Overview

Introduction

• AQA is the most chosen general qualifications exam board in England.

Specification at a Glance

• Qualification: Linear.
  • All AS exams are sat at the end of the AS course.
  • All A-level exams are sat at the end of the A-level course.

Subject Content

Core Content

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 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)

Assessments

Paper 1

• Content: Topics 1-4 and relevant practical skills.
• Format:
  • Written exam: 2 hours
  • 91 marks
  • 35% of A-level
  • Questions: 76 marks mixed short and long answers, 15 marks extended response

Paper 2

• Content: Topics 5-8 and relevant practical skills.
• Format:
  • Written exam: 2 hours
  • 91 marks
  • 35% of A-level
  • Questions: 76 marks mixed short and long answers, 15 marks comprehension

Paper 3

• Content: Topics 1-8 and relevant practical skills.
• Format:
  • Written exam: 2 hours
  • 78 marks
  • 30% of A-level
  • Questions:
    • 38 marks structured questions (including practical techniques)
    • 15 marks critical analysis of experimental data
    • 25 marks essay from a choice of two titles

Additional Resources

• Planning, Teaching, and Assessment resources are available.
• Key dates for exams and assessments can be found on the AQA website.

Administration

• General Administration: Details on the organization of exams and coursework.
• Mathematical Requirements: Understanding and exemplification of mathematical skills in biology.
• Practical Assessment: Importance of practical skills in biology.

Related Links and Services

• Professional development courses and resources available in various subjects.
• A wide range of qualifications including GCSEs and other certificates.
• AQA provides additional products and services such as All About Maths, Exampro, and Testbase.

Note: For detailed information, course resources, and updates, visit the AQA official website.