Biology

Course summary

We follow the AQA specification for A Level Biology. This is a linear course with the main examination at the end of Year 13. There are three examinations which are comprised of unit-based assessments, with the final paper focusing on the synoptic nature of the course and including a 25-mark synoptic essay. In Year 12, you will study four units. We begin with Biological Molecules and how these form the foundations for all life on Earth. This is studied alongside Cell Biology, which builds upon the key fundamentals you have studied in your secondary education and introduces new and exciting organelles. We then move on to study Exchange and Transport Systems, in tandem with Diversity, Classification and Selection. In Year 13, you will apply the fundamentals you have studied in Year 12 and link these to four new units. These include Bioenergetics, namely Respiration and Photosynthesis, alongside Responding to the Internal and External Environment. We finish the course with a focus on Genetics and Genetic Technologies.