Biology
Download our Biology prospectus here.
Biology is a fantastic choice for students hoping to pursue a science related career and for those students who are fascinated by the living world. Topics are wide-ranging to develop your understanding and appreciation of the diversity of living organisms, from simple viruses to more complex animals and plants.
Biology FAQs
1. Can I study A Level Biology if I have done Combined Science?
Yes, as long as you achieve 6-6 in your Combined Course.
2. Do you have to do Biology to study Medicine at University?
No, it is a preferred A Level but not essential. Check each University degree for specific details on Entry requirements.
3. What are the exam structures for A Level Biology?
3 papers all 2 hours long. Paper 1 is AS content, Paper 2 is A Level content and Paper 3 is a synoptic paper with a 25 mark essay at the end. The exams will have 10% of the marks allocated to mathematical skills and 15% of the marks allocated to knowledge and application of skills relating to practical work.
4. How many practicals are completed and how is this assessed?
There are 12 practicals across the A Level course. There are 5 competency skills that are assessed across the 12 practicals (not all skills are assessed every practical) and students are RAG rated on their work. If they have evidence of green across all competencies by the end of the A Level they are awarded a practical endorsement. NO official practical exam but 15% of marks in the 3 papers cover practical skills.
5. Are textbooks provided?
Answer – Yes at the beginning of the year you will be told to go to the LRC to get a book, it will be leased to you like any other book in school. It needs to be handed back at the end of the year. You will get one textbook in Year 12, hand it back and then repeat to get a new book in Year 13 which you will hand back when you finish the course.
Who to contact to find out more about this subject at A-Level:
Natalie Ainley – Assistant Faculty Leader for Science
becnjb@beckfoot.org
