Biology – Edexcel – AS 8BIO1
Biology – Edexcel – A2 9BIO1
Course Outline
Biology at AS and A2 Level covers a range of topics, but importantly the new Biology specifications
emphasise linking these topics to current health, conservation, and pharmacological issues to
develop a better understanding of Biology as it relates to everyday life.
Course Details
AS - Biology
Unit 1:
Lifestyle, Transport, Genes and Health
A written paper of 1¼ hours duration.
(40% of AS, 20% of A2 Level)
Unit 2:
Development, Plants and the Environment
A written paper of 1¼ hours duration.
(40% of AS, 20% of A2 Level)
Unit 3:
Practical Biology and Research Skills
Students write a report of 1500-2000 words
based on a visit to a site of biological interest, or
a current biological issue. Practical skills are
assessed by the teacher.
(20% of AS, 10% of A2 Level)
A2 - Biology
Unit 4:
The Natural Environmental
& Species Survival
A written paper of 1½ hours duration.
(20% of total A Level)
Unit 5:
Energy, Exercise and Coordination
A written paper of 1½ hours duration.
(20% of total A Level)
Unit 6:
Practical Biology and Investigative skills
Students will devise and carry out an
experimental investigation that will be marked by
the teacher and moderated by Edexcel.
(10% of total A Level)
Assessment Criteria
The specification followed is the one offered by Edexcel. The course is assessed entirely by means
of modular examinations and coursework. All examinations are of the structured answer type. AS
Level consists of 3 units (2 taught and one practical/coursework) and A2 Level consists of 3 units (2
taught and one coursework).
Course requirements and progression
To follow the Biology course within the Sixth Form you would be expected to meet the general
requirements for AS Level courses. You need to have achieved at least a B in GCSE Biology and
students that have studied GCSE Science and Additional Science should have achieved at
least an A and a B Grade. Studying Chemistry at AS Level is also a distinct advantage. You will
need a solid grounding in analytical, numerical and written skills too. Those students applying who
have not studied GCSEs will be considered on a case by case basis.
An annual Biology field trip will be organised that students will be expected to attend as part of the
course. This trip can be used to complete either the Unit 3 or Unit 6 coursework. Many students
use their Biology A or AS Level to go on to higher education to study Science related courses. This
could lead to a career in Medicine, Biotechnology, Ecology, Environmental Science and a number of
other related fields.