Biology

Exam Board & Specification: AQA A-Level Biology (7402)

Subject Lead:

Mrs A Driver

What will students study at Key Stage 5?

Year 12: Students master biological molecules, cell structure and membranes, enzymes, nucleic acids and mitosis, then progress to exchange and transport in animals/plants and DNA → protein. Genetic diversity through mutation and meiosis underpins biodiversity. Required practicals and statistical treatment embed investigation skills alongside frequent exam‑style tasks.

Year 13: Focus moves to energy and control in living systems: photosynthesis and respiration; nervous and endocrine coordination; genetic information, variation and selection shaping populations and ecosystems; plus control of gene expression and contemporary gene technologies. Synoptic practical/data questions mirror terminal papers.

What do assessments test?

• AO1: Knowledge/understanding of biological ideas, processes and procedures
• AO2: Application of knowledge to analyse and interpret, including mathematics
• AO3: Analysis/evaluation of information and practical work (required practicals)

What are the expectations of my child in this subject?

Attend all lessons, meet deadlines, keep high‑quality notes, and use independent study effectively (at least the Sixth Form expectation per subject). Build habits of spaced retrieval, interleaved practice and regular past‑paper work.

What should my child do if they feel they are struggling in this subject?

Speak to the subject teacher promptly, identify precise topic/skill gaps, attend clinics/interventions, and use targeted resources (examiner reports, model answers, required practical write‑ups or assignment checklists).

How can I best support my child in this subject?

Have short, frequent check‑ins on progress; help plan assessment timelines; encourage retrieval practice and timed responses; and ensure use of department‑recommended texts, platforms and mark schemes.