OCR A Level Biology
Course Title A Level Biology (Specification A)
Examining Body OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA)
Course Duration 2 Years
Overview of the Course This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the complexities of life, ranging from the intricate molecular details of cells to the interactions of vast ecosystems. You will develop a deep understanding of biological principles while refining your scientific thinking and practical laboratory skills. The syllabus is designed to be relevant to contemporary scientific issues, encouraging you to explore the societal and economic impacts of biology in the real world.
How the Course is Examined Assessment is linear, meaning all exams are taken at the end of the two-year course.
- Paper 1: Biological Processes (37% of total A Level) – Written exam (2 hours 15 minutes) covering modules 1, 2, 3, and 5.
- Paper 2: Biological Diversity (37% of total A Level) – Written exam (2 hours 15 minutes) covering modules 1, 2, 4, and 6.
- Paper 3: Unified Biology (26% of total A Level) – Written exam (1 hour 30 minutes) covering content from all modules (1–6).
- Practical Endorsement in Biology: A non-exam assessment reported separately (Pass/Fail) based on your performance in practical experiments throughout the course.
Further Information The course is divided into six distinct modules:
- Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology (planning, analysis, and evaluation).
- Module 2: Foundations in biology (cell structure, biological molecules, enzymes, membranes).
- Module 3: Exchange and transport (gas exchange, transport in animals and plants).
- Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease (communicable diseases, immunity, classification).
- Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy (nervous/hormonal systems, photosynthesis, respiration).
- Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems (inheritance, cloning, biotechnology, populations).
Where the Qualification Can Lead To A Level Biology is a highly respected “facilitating subject” that opens doors to a wide range of university degrees and careers.
- University: Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Biomedical Sciences, Zoology, Marine Biology, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Nursing.
- Careers: Doctor, Vet, Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Pharmacologist, Geneticist, and Science Communicator.