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AQA AS and A-level Biology Complete Specification Guide
J
J
@j.isanerd
1 / 10
Course Overview
The AQA Biology specification is designed with real-world relevance in mind, developed with input from over a thousand teachers. The course serves as a stepping stone to university study in biological sciences, medicine, and related fields.
Practical work sits at the heart of the course because biology is fundamentally an experimental subject. You'll get loads of hands-on experience linking theory to real applications.
The AS and A-level are designed to be co-teachable, meaning your teachers can cover both levels together efficiently. The content builds naturally from GCSE level.
Quick Tip: These are linear qualifications, so you'll sit all your AS exams at the end of Year 12, and all A-level exams at the end of Year 13 - no modules to worry about!
Course Structure & Topics
AS Level covers four core topics that form your foundation:
- Biological molecules (the chemistry of life)
- Cells (structure and function)
- How organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
A-level adds four additional topics that dive deeper:
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- How organisms respond to environmental changes
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- Control of gene expression
Each topic builds on previous knowledge, so mastering the AS content is crucial for A-level success. The specification is written in a context-free style, giving your teachers flexibility in how they bring the subject alive.
Remember: All eight topics can appear in your A-level exams, so don't forget your AS content when you move into Year 13!
AS Assessment Structure
AS Biology has two papers, each worth 50% of your final grade. Both exams are 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 75 marks.
Paper 1 focuses on short answer questions (65 marks) plus one comprehension question (10 marks). You'll need to demonstrate detailed knowledge across topics 1-4.
Paper 2 also has short answer questions (65 marks) but includes extended response questions (10 marks) instead of comprehension. This is where you show you can write longer, more detailed answers.
Both papers can test any content from the four AS topics, including practical skills you've developed throughout the course. The questions are designed to be accessible whilst still challenging you appropriately.
Exam Strategy: Practice both short, precise answers and longer explanations - you'll need both skills to succeed across the two papers.
A-level Assessment Structure
A-level Biology has three papers that together test your knowledge of all eight topics plus practical skills.
Paper 1 covers topics 1-4 in 2 hours, with mixed question types including 15 marks of extended responses. Paper 2 focuses on topics 5-8, also 2 hours, featuring a comprehension question worth 15 marks.
Paper 3 is the synoptic paper testing content from all topics. You'll tackle structured questions on practical techniques, analyse experimental data, and choose one essay from two titles.
The essay questions are particularly important - they let you demonstrate how well you can bring together knowledge from across the entire specification.
Top Tip: Paper 3 is your chance to shine by showing connections between different biology topics - start thinking about links early in your course!
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
AQA AS and A-level Biology Complete Specification Guide
J
J
@j.isanerd
This is the AQA specification guide for AS and A-level Biology - basically your roadmap to understanding how these qualifications work. Whether you're just starting AS or planning ahead for A-level, this document shows you exactly what topics you'll study... Show more
Course Overview
The AQA Biology specification is designed with real-world relevance in mind, developed with input from over a thousand teachers. The course serves as a stepping stone to university study in biological sciences, medicine, and related fields.
Practical work sits at the heart of the course because biology is fundamentally an experimental subject. You'll get loads of hands-on experience linking theory to real applications.
The AS and A-level are designed to be co-teachable, meaning your teachers can cover both levels together efficiently. The content builds naturally from GCSE level.
Quick Tip: These are linear qualifications, so you'll sit all your AS exams at the end of Year 12, and all A-level exams at the end of Year 13 - no modules to worry about!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Course Structure & Topics
AS Level covers four core topics that form your foundation:
- Biological molecules (the chemistry of life)
- Cells (structure and function)
- How organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
A-level adds four additional topics that dive deeper:
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- How organisms respond to environmental changes
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- Control of gene expression
Each topic builds on previous knowledge, so mastering the AS content is crucial for A-level success. The specification is written in a context-free style, giving your teachers flexibility in how they bring the subject alive.
Remember: All eight topics can appear in your A-level exams, so don't forget your AS content when you move into Year 13!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
AS Assessment Structure
AS Biology has two papers, each worth 50% of your final grade. Both exams are 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 75 marks.
Paper 1 focuses on short answer questions (65 marks) plus one comprehension question (10 marks). You'll need to demonstrate detailed knowledge across topics 1-4.
Paper 2 also has short answer questions (65 marks) but includes extended response questions (10 marks) instead of comprehension. This is where you show you can write longer, more detailed answers.
Both papers can test any content from the four AS topics, including practical skills you've developed throughout the course. The questions are designed to be accessible whilst still challenging you appropriately.
Exam Strategy: Practice both short, precise answers and longer explanations - you'll need both skills to succeed across the two papers.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
A-level Assessment Structure
A-level Biology has three papers that together test your knowledge of all eight topics plus practical skills.
Paper 1 covers topics 1-4 in 2 hours, with mixed question types including 15 marks of extended responses. Paper 2 focuses on topics 5-8, also 2 hours, featuring a comprehension question worth 15 marks.
Paper 3 is the synoptic paper testing content from all topics. You'll tackle structured questions on practical techniques, analyse experimental data, and choose one essay from two titles.
The essay questions are particularly important - they let you demonstrate how well you can bring together knowledge from across the entire specification.
Top Tip: Paper 3 is your chance to shine by showing connections between different biology topics - start thinking about links early in your course!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Join milions of students
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We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user