AS and A-level Biology

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  • Teaching from: September 2015
  • Exams from: 2016 (AS), 2017 (A-level)
  • Specification code: 7401 7402
  • QAN code: 601/4624/2; 601/4625/4
New AS and A level Biology Download specification

Our AS and A-level Biology specifications will help you to inspire students, nurture their passion for the subject and lay the foundations for further study and the workplace.

Our specifications allow you to choose the context and applications to bring biology to life in the way that best suits the needs of your students.

The content of the AS is identical and co-teachable to that of the first year of A-level, which gives you flexibility in planning, timetabling and resourcing. The straightforward layout clearly shows what students need to know and highlights opportunities for skills development.

Practical work is at the heart of all good science teaching, and the required practical activities will give students the opportunity to embed their skills and knowledge. The A-level practicals ensure that students are able to access the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) requirements of the course.

Specification

Specification at a glance

Past papers and mark schemes

Teaching resources

Plan

4

Prepare for your teaching year. Information, support and services to help you deliver the specification.

All planning resources

Teach

75

Teaching resources that you can use to plan your lessons and support your students’ learning.

All teaching resources

Assess

90

Prepare your students for assessment. Past papers, mark schemes and example answers.

All assessment resources

Key dates

  • 11 October 2021 Exam for A-level Biology Paper 1 (7402/1)
    Series: November 2021
    Start time: am
    Duration: 2h
  • 11 October 2021 Exam for AS Biology Paper 1 (7401/1)
    Series: November 2021
    Start time: am
    Duration: 1h 30m
  • 15 October 2021 Exam for A-level Biology Paper 2 (7402/2)
    Series: November 2021
    Start time: am
    Duration: 2h

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The new specification shows many similarities with the current specification in terms of range of topics and depth of study.

Richard Wilson,
Head of Biology, Colchester Sixth Form College

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The customer support team.
8am–5pm Monday to FridayTel: 01483 477756
Email: alevelscience@aqa.org.uk