Biology
Exam board: AQA
Course code: 7402
www.aqa.org.uk/science and https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/biology/a-level/biology-7402/specification
Entry requirement: Grade 6 Biology or Grade 7/7 in Combined Sciences plus Grade 6 in Mathematics
The study of the relationship between the cells in our bodies and the larger organ and system structures provides an insight into how complex structures can be scientifically analysed to provide information to help maintain our health and fitness. Throughout the course students carry out experimental and investigative activities in order to develop their practical skills.
Subject Content
The topics that are studied at A Level are:
- 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
Course Assessment
Paper 1
What is assessed: Any content from topics 1 – 4 including relevant practical skills
How it is assessed: written exam: 2 hours, 91 marks; 35% of A Level.
Questions: 76 marks - a mixture of short and long answer questions; 15 marks - extended response questions.
Paper 2
What is assessed: any content from topics 5 – 8 including relevant practical skills.
How it is assessed: written exam; 2 hours; 91 marks; 35% of A Level.
Questions: 76 marks - a mixture of short and long answer questions; 15 marks - comprehension questions.
Paper 3
What is assessed: any content from topics 1 – 8 including relevant practical skills.
How it is assessed: written exam; 2 hours; 78 marks; 30% of A Level.
Questions: 38 marks - structured questions including practical techniques; 15 marks - critical analysis of given experimental data; 25 marks - one essay from a choice of two titles.
Higher Education and Careers
The opportunities for a Biologist include ecology, genetics, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, sports science, medicine, bioengineering, agriculture and land-based studies, hydrology and marine biology. See the following website for more information: http://www.royalsocietyofbiology.com/education
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