Biology
Back to Key InformationExam Board: OCR
Specification code: H420
A Level in Biology A allows students to develop relevant practical skills alongside essential knowledge and understanding of a range of biological concepts and scientific methods. Biological mathematics and problem-solving skills can be fully integrated into teaching and learning.
Course structure
Full A level
In a change from previous years, to complete the full A level in Biology students must complete six modules and be assessed on all six at the end of two years of study – i.e. in Year 13. The A Level is no longer formed of ‘AS’ plus ‘A2’.
AS level
Students can choose to study Biology for just one year (modules 1-4) and complete the relevant exams (two exams, each of an hour and a half) to attain an AS Level in Biology.
All four modules will be assessed on both papers, which is a significant change from previous courses.
Assessment
Assessment of AS Biology
Students complete two written papers, both lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. They are entitled ‘Breadth in Biology’ and ‘Depth in Biology’, and are equally weighted. Both papers will assess content from all four AS modules, including the practical skills module 1.
Assessment of A Level Biology
There are three written papers to assess A level Biology. ‘Biological Processes’ and ‘Biological Diversity’ are each 2 hours 15 minutes, and each account for 37% of the A Level. The former assesses modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. The latter assesses content in modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. The third exam is called ‘Unified Biology’, and lasts for 1 hour 30 minutes. This accounts for the remaining 26% of the A level. The practical skills of students are assessed throughout the course, leading to a separate certificate called ‘Practical Endorsement in Biology’ – this is simply pass/fail depending on skills shown throughout the course.
Entry requirements
Students applying to study A Level biology must have achieved a grade 7 in GCSE Combined Science, or at least a grade 6 in GCSE biology if doing Triple Science.
Further Education and Career Paths
A Level Biology prepares students for a wide range of courses in Higher Education such as: Agriculture, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Dentistry, Ecology, Food Technology, Forestry, Medicine, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Sports Science, Veterinary Science and many others. The practical skills, experience of data analysis and the ability to express oneself concisely and accurately are useful attributes and help to prepare a young person for a career in a wide variety of fields.
