Minerva Learning Trust

Biology

A Level AQA

During this two year course students will develop and demonstrate a variety of experimental techniques including: serial dilutions, the use of a colorimeter, microscope work, microbiological aseptic techniques and ecological investigations.  

Throughout the course, students will study the following topics:

  • Biological molecules 
  • Cells 
  • How organisms exchange substances with their environment 
  • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms  
  • Energy transfers in and between organisms  
  • How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments Genetics, population, evolution and ecosystems  
  • The control of gene expression 
Assessment
Paper 1 - 35%
  • Biological molecules
  • Cells
  • How organisms exchange substances with their environment
  • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms  
Paper 2 - 35%
  • Energy transfers in and between organisms 
  • How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments 
  • Genetics, population, evolution and ecosystems 
  • The control of gene expression 
Paper 3 - 30%
  • Content from the whole course  
Students who study Biology will develop research, problem solving and analytical skills. Students will also gain practical skills from experiments throughout the course. The Biology A Level can lead to a university degree in any of the Biological Sciences, from Aquaculture to Zoology, and is often a requirement of health related degrees including Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Sciences. 

This course will be assessed at the end of the second year: 

Practical skills are assessed in the written papers

Skills Developed and Career Prospects

High Storrs Sixth Form Entry Requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 9 - 4. This MUST include at least a Grade 4 in English Language and Mathematics

Plus

Grade 6 in Biology OR Grade 6-6 in Combined Science AND Grade 5 in Maths