AS and A Level
Biology is a subject that can provide you with great enjoyment and respect for all living things. This course develops many of the topics you may have already studied at GCSE and introduces you to some of the exciting areas of Biology in the contemporary world, such as the influence that genes have on our development, environmental issues and aspects of human health. Biology is a practical science subject so you will develop further your experimental skills and an understanding of scientific method.
Good GCSE grades in Biology, Chemistry or Science and Additional Science are a help for the study of AS and A level Biology. Those with B grades or better will fare better than those with C grades, but interest in the subject and a willingness to work hard are important criteria for success.
If a Biological career is intended, it is a good idea to study Chemistry at A level. However, Biology can be successfully combined with any of the arts subjects. Biology is often thought of as the most ‘user-friendly’ of the sciences, and those who have ability in this subject and/or are willing to work hard, will enjoy examination success.
An A level qualification in Biology would prepare you to study one of the Biological Sciences at University. However, you may wish to take a more vocational course leading to a career in medicine, veterinary science, animal health, food science, pharmacy, radiotherapy, nursing, physiotherapy or speech therapy, to name but a few of the career options available.
Specification: OCR Biology AS H021 A H421
Click here to download the current specification for this A level course.
In each year of the course there are two externally assessed units plus an internally assessed practical skills unit.
% indicate contribution of marks to the A level
AS
Unit F211: Cells, Exchange and Transport - 1 hour - 15%
Unit F212: Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health - 1¾ hours - 25%
Unit F213: Practical Skills in Biology 1 - 10%
A2
Unit F214: Communication, Homeostasis and Energy - 1 hour - 15%
Unit F215: Control, Genomes and Environment - 1¾ hours - 25%
Unit F216: Practical Skills in Biology 2 - 10%
