A Level Biology

Biology is an introduction to the way life on our planet works. It’s an essential for those planning to pursue a career in medicine, work with animals or in the marine environment. This qualification opens doors to higher education, and is lasting proof on your CV of this level of intensive learning.

During A Level Biology you will explore biological molecules, genetic information and energy transfers you will go on to understand how this impacts how organisms respond to their environment, genetic populations and the control of gene expressions.

Upon successful completion of the exam and practical assessments (as administered by CIE), you will have achieved an internationally recognised CIE A Level Biology.

Free 24-hour trial available - simply enquire and this can be set up for you right away.

Outline

This A Level has the following main themes:

Cells as the units of life

A cell is the basic unit of life and all organisms are composed of one or more cells. There are two
fundamental types of cell: prokaryotic and eukaryotic.

Biochemical processes

Cells are dynamic: biochemistry and molecular biology help to explain how and why cells function as
they do.

DNA, the molecule of heredity

Cells contain the molecule of heredity, DNA. Heredity is based on the inheritance of genes.

Natural selection

Natural selection is the major mechanism to explain the theory of evolution.

Organisms in their environment

All organisms interact with their biotic and abiotic environment.

Observation and experiment

The different fields of biology are intertwined and cannot be studied in isolation: observation and
enquiry, experimentation and fieldwork are fundamental to biology.

Content

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level Biology study the following topics:
1 Cell structure
2 Biological molecules
3 Enzymes
4 Cell membranes and transport
5 The mitotic cell cycle
6 Nucleic acids and protein synthesis
7 Transport in plants
8 Transport in mammals
9 Gas exchange and smoking
10 Infectious disease
11 Immunity

Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Biology study the AS topics and the following topics:
12 Energy and respiration
13 Photosynthesis
14 Homeostasis
15 Control and co-ordination
16 Inherited change
17 Selection and evolution
18 Biodiversity, classification and conservation
19 Genetic technology

You need to do the following exams:

Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour
This paper consists of 40 multiple choice questions, all with four options. All
questions will be based on the AS Level syllabus content. Candidates will answer
all questions. Candidates will answer on an answer sheet. [40 marks] 15.5% of total course.

Paper 2 AS Level Structured Questions 1 hour 15 minutes
This paper consists of a variable number of questions, of variable mark value. All
questions will be based on the AS Level syllabus content. Candidates will answer
all questions. Candidates will answer on the question paper. [60 marks] 23% of total course.

Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills 2 hours
This paper requires candidates to carry out practical work in timed conditions.
This paper will consist of two or three experiments drawn from different areas
of the AS Level syllabus. Candidates will answer all questions. Candidates will
answer on the question paper. [40 marks] 11.5% of total course.

Paper 4 A Level Structured Questions 2 hours
This paper consists of a variable number of structured questions each with a
variable mark value (Section A) and a choice of one free response style question
worth 15 marks (Section B). All questions will be based on the A Level syllabus
but may require knowledge of material first encountered in the AS Level syllabus.
Candidates will answer on the question paper. [100 marks] 38.5% of total course.

Paper 5 Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 1 hour 15 minutes
This paper consists of a variable number of questions of variable mark value
based on the practical skills of planning, analysis and evaluation. Candidates will
answer on the question paper. [30 marks] 11.5% of total course.

Skills Gained

• Understanding of how biological molecules and cells are formed and interact
• Understanding this demanding subject in context
• Applying the scientific methodology in biology
• Developing critical thinking skills

Assessment

These exams are administered by AQA or CIE. As a private candidate you will sit your exams in an exam centre such as a school, college or private tuition centre.

You will be charged and exam fee by your chosen centre. Fees vary across centres, but £220-280.00 is a sensible estimate for the written papers.

An additional fee will be charged for those wishing to take practical endorsements.

Absorb Online Learning provide a comprehensive guide to finding your most conveniently located centre, along with details of how and when to make your booking.

In addition, if you select the added tutor support there will be a number of tutor marked assessments (TMAs) to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the content, with the tutor sending comments to guide you through any areas of potential difficulty. This will ensure you are prepared for the final exams.

All e-books contain a range of self-assessments that are indicators that you understand the materials as you work through them. These are for your own information.

How quickly can I complete the A Level?

You can complete your A Level as quickly or slowly within the two years as you choose. The recommended study time for the content is 360 hours. The exam dates are set by the exam boards and for A Level Biology are available in January and May/June each year. This gives you four opportunities to sit the exams over the two years.

For those with an interest in Biology.

No prior qualification needed.

This A level is suitable for university access. It is also ideal for those seeking a career in medicine, nursing and other science related professions.