Students in Lab

Biology

Overview

Biology is the study of all living things. You will look at how individual molecules interact with each other, how they form tissues, organs and organisms and how these organisms interact with their environment on a global scale. Studying biology will develop your understanding of the living world and enable you to explore the applications and implications of this living science.

To succeed in A Level Biology, you will need a sound understanding of the concepts covered in GCSE Dual Award or Triple Science. It does not matter if you have completed GCSE Dual Award (Core and Additional) or GCSE separate Sciences.

The successful study of any science also relies heavily upon sound numerical skills.

Entry Requirements

Students will need GCSE Maths at grade 6 or above.

Taking Double Award Science? You will need at least grade 6/6.

Taking Triple Award Science? You will need at least grade 6 in Biology.

AQA

Learning & Assessment

Modules / Topics

  • Biological molecules
  • Cells
  • Exchange with the Environment
  • Energy Transfer In and Between Organisms
  • Genetics, Populations, Evolution and Ecosystems
  • Organisms and Response to Internal and External Environments
  • Control of Gene Expression

Trips / Visits / Enrichment

Previous student have attended a Newcastle University Biomedical Workshop, a Field studies investigation at St. Mary’s Lighthouse and a Sunderland University Microbiology Workshop.

Assessment

Three exams at the end of second year

  • Paper 1 covers topics 1-4: 2 hours, 35% of A Level
  • Paper 2 covers topics 5-8: 2 hours, 35% of A Level
  • Paper 3 covers topics 1-8: 2 hours, 30% of A Level

What do our students say?

 
 
 
My teachers were fantastic, and the overall experience I had was really important, as it allowed me to see what I was truly capable of achieving
 
 
 
Emily Shord , Biology
Read Emily Shord's Story  

CGP Head Start to Biology

AQA A Level Biology, 2nd Edition, Glenn Toole and Susan Toole

https://www.biology-online.org

Biology can be studied to aid progression to a scientific, medical, health, environmental or social science career.

Popular progression routes from A Level Biology include degrees in biology, biomedical sciences, marine biology, zoology, pharmacy, environmental sciences, psychology, medicine, physiotherapy, speech or occupational therapy, veterinary and dentistry.

Think Biology is right for you?

Apply Online