BIOLOGY
(A Level)
What is Biology A level?
Biology is the study of life itself, from the complex interactions of organisms in an ecosystem to the biochemistry of DNA and proteins. Biology is central to many major scientific disciplines such as Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Biophysics. Throughout your studies you will learn the biological basis of issues ranging from HIV to cancer. You will also develop practical and analytical skills and debate the ethical issues that are central to the modern biologist. You should consider biology A level if you are interested in making links between topics you have learnt about at GCSE and if you enjoy reading about scientific developments in the news.
Exam Board: OCR
What’s Biology A level like?
Watch our subject taster video.
(nb please note AS level will be internal assessment not an external qualification).
What will I learn?
Breadth in biology - A detailed study into the basic principles in Biology – Cell structure, biological molecules and cellular organisation.
Depth in biology - Introduction to diversity and evolution, exchange surfaces and transport.
Development of practical skills in biology - Basic skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.
Biological processes - Further study on exchange and transport, communications, homeostasis and energy.
Biological diversity - Extended study of biodiversity, evolution and disease, along with genetics, evolution and ecosystems.
Unified biology - Structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills
How will I be assessed?
100% exam (11% Multiple Choice)
Entry requirements
Two grade 7s in combined Science or Triple Science (must have 7 in Biology)
Where can Biology A level take me?
If you love Biology A level you might want to study biological sciences, biochemistry, biology, psychology or human sciences. A scientific A level is also an excellent grounding for any degree. Biology A level is required for medicine, dentistry and veterinary science degrees.
Further reading and watching
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters - Matt Ridley
The Seven Daughters of Eve - Brian Sykes
There are always new developments in biology so reading the science pages of a quality newspaper will also be excellent A Level preparation.