advanced level biology

The aim of the syllabus is to provide a course to Advanced Level which will:-

• develop in students an understanding of biological facts and principles and an appreciation of their significance;
• be complete in itself and perform a useful educational function for students not intending to study biology at a high level;
• be a suitable preparation for university courses in biology, for biological studies in other establishments and for professional courses which require students to have a knowledge of biology when admitted.

The A level syllabus is presented in two tiers – one at AS and the other at A2 and there are six modules in total.

The modules have been developed to ensure that candidates follow a coherent course and form a balanced view of the subject.

Assessment will be through AQA and the scheme for the two years through AS to A2 is listed below.

All modules are set and marked externally by AQA and exams will be held in the summer term of each year.  There are three compulsory modules for AS and two for A2.  Within the A2 syllabus students will have the chance of studying a third module from one of the following:-

• applied
• ecology microbes and disease
• behaviour and populations

Practical and coursework skills will be assessed at AS and A2.  This will be carried out internally by the centre.  The assessment will be concerned with the extent to which each candidate has demonstrated the possession of the following four skill areas:-

• AO1 Knowledge and Understanding
• A02 Application of Knowledge and Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation
• A03 Experiment and Investigation

And for A2:-

the above three points plus an additional objective on Synthesis of Knowledge, Understanding and Skills