Biology

DEPARTMENT

Biology

A-Level Board/code

OCR / Biology A H420

What do we cover in the course?

Key syllabus elements

The course is divided into six teaching modules and each module is further divided into key topics.

The first four modules comprise the AS Level in Biology and learners studying the A level continue with the content of modules 5 and 6.

The internally assessed Practical Endorsement skills also form part of the full A level.

The current outline of the specification is:

Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology

1.1 Practical skills assessed in a written examination

1.2 Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement

Module 2 – Foundations in biology

2.1.1 Cell structure

2.1.2 Biological molecules

2.1.3 Nucleotides and nucleic acids

2.1.4 Enzymes

2.1.5 Biological membranes

2.1.6 Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation

Module 3 – Exchange and transport

3.1.1 Exchange surfaces

3.1.2 Transport in animals

3.1.3 Transport in plants

Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease

4.1.1 Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system

4.2.1 Biodiversity

4.2.2 Classification and evolution 

Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy

5.1.1 Communication and homeostasis

5.1.2 Excretion as an example of homeostatic control

5.1.3 Neuronal communication

5.1.4 Hormonal communication

5.1.5 Plant and animal responses

5.2.1 Photosynthesis

5.2.2 Respiration

Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

6.1.1 Cellular control

6.1.2 Patterns of inheritance

6.1.3 Manipulating genomes

6.2.1 Cloning and biotechnology

6.3.1 Ecosystems

6.3.2 Populations and sustainability

How is it assessed?

Key assessment elements

A level assessment

A level students must complete all components 01, 02, 03 and 04

• 01, 02 and 03 are written papers
• 04 is a non-exam internal assessment of practical competency

01 Biological processes:

37% of total A level marks

2 hour 15 minutes written paper

100 marks

02 Biological diversity:

37% of total A level marks

2 hour 15 minutes written paper

100 marks

03 Unified biology:

26% of total A level marks

1 hour 30 minutes written paper

70 marks

04 Practical endorsement in biology

Practical activities are embedded within the course. These are teacher-assessed and this contributes to achieving the Practical Endorsement on a pass or fail basis

All components are synoptic.

AS level assessment

A level students must complete components 01 and 02

• 01 and 02 are written papers
• Both components assess content from modules 1-4

01 Breadth in biology:

50% of total AS level marks

1 hour 30 minutes written paper

70 marks

02 Depth in biology:

50% of total AS level marks

1 hour 30 minutes written paper

70 marks

Key skills required

Students should have at least a B grade at GCSE Double Science or Biology and Chemistry, a basic understanding of the scientific method, an ability to follow a broad and practical course of study, good mathematical skills, an inquisitive mind and a strong desire to engage with Biology in everyday life.

What entry requirements are there to study this course?

Students should have at least a B grade at GCSE Double Science or Biology and Chemistry.

What is the course useful for?

The aims of this course are to encourage students to:

• develop their interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology;
• appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society;
• develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of the scientific method;
• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.