Aqa 7401 7402 SP 2015

AS AND A-
LEVEL
BIOLOGY
Specification
For teaching from onwards
For AS and A-level exams in 2016 onwards
Version 1.5 26 November 2021
AQA AS and A-level Biology . AS and A-level exams June 2016 onwards. Version 1.5 26 November 2021
Contents
1 Introduction 5
1.1 Why choose AQA for AS and A-level Biology 5
1.2 Support and resources to help you teach 6
2 Specification at a glance 8
2.1 Subject content 8
2.2 AS 8
2.3 A-level 9
3 Subject content 11
3.1 Biological molecules 11
3.2 Cells 20
3.3 Organisms exchange substances with their
environment 26
3.4 Genetic information, variation and relationships
between organisms 31
3.5 Energy transfers in and between organisms (A-level
only) 37
3.6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and
external environments (A-level only) 42
3.7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A-
level only) 48
3.8 The control of gene expression (A-level only) 53
4 Scheme of assessment 59
4.1 Aims 59
4.2 Assessment objectives 60
4.3 Assessment weightings 61
5 General administration 63
5.1 Entries and codes 63
5.2 Overlaps with other qualifications 63
5.3 Awarding grades and reporting results 63
5.4 Re-sits and shelf life 64
5.5 Previous learning and prerequisites 64
5.6 Access to assessment: diversity and inclusion 64
5.7 Working with AQA for the first time 65
5.8 Private candidates 65
6 Mathematical requirements and

exemplifications 67
Visit for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration 3
6.1 Arithmetic and numerical computation 67
6.2 Handling data 68
6.3 Algebra 70
6.4 Graphs 71
6.5 Geometry and trigonometry 72
7 AS practical assessment 73
7.1 Use of apparatus and techniques 73
7.2 Required practical activities 74
7.3 Practical skills to be assessed in written papers 74
8 A-level practical assessment 77

8.1 Use of apparatus and techniques 77
8.2 Required practical activities 78
8.3 Practical skills to be assessed in written papers 79
8.4 Practical skills to be assessed via endorsement 80
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4 Visit for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration
1 Introduction
1.1 Why choose AQA for AS and A-level Biology
Relevant in the classroom and the real world
We involved over a thousand teachers in developing these specifications, to ensure that the
subject content is relevant to real world experiences and is interesting to teach and learn. We’ve
also presented it in a straightforward way, giving you the freedom to teach in the way that works for
your students.
A-level Biology is a stepping stone to future study, which is why we also consulted universities to
ensure these specifications allow students to develop the skills that they want to see.
This approach has led to specifications that will support you to inspire students, nurture a passion
for Biology and lay the groundwork for further study in courses like biological sciences and
medicine.
The way you teach – your choice

These specifications have been written in a context-free style. This means that you can select the
context and applications that you feel bring the subject alive. You can also teach to your strengths
and to your students’ needs. To support you, we have produced a range of excellent teaching
resources that you can use alongside your own.
Practicals at the heart of science

Like you, we believe that Biology is fundamentally an experimental subject. These specifications
provide numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality, and equip
students with the essential practical skills they need.
Teach AS and A-level together

We’ve ensured that the AS and A-level are fully co-teachable. The AS exams include similar
questions to those in the A-level, with less difficulty, allowing for future growth. We’ve created our
A-level content with our GCSE in mind to make sure that there is a seamless progression between
qualifications. We’ve also followed ASE guidance on use of scientific terminology across our
science subjects.
Assessment success
We’ve tested our specimen question papers with students, making sure they’re interesting,
straightforward and clear and hold no hidden surprises. To ensure that your students are rewarded
for the biology skills and knowledge they’ve developed, our exams include:
• accessible assessments allowing students of various abilities to shine
• a choice of two essay questions giving students more opportunities to bring together
knowledge of the whole specification (A-level only).
With us, your students will get the results they deserve, from the exam board you trust.
You can find out about all our science qualifications at aqa.org.uk/science.
1.2 Support and resources to help you teach

We know that support and resources are vital for your teaching and that you have limited time to
find or develop good quality materials. So we’ve worked with experienced teachers to provide you
with a range of resources that will help you confidently plan, teach and prepare for exams.
Teaching resources
We have too many Biology resources to list here so visit aqa.org.uk/7402 to see them all. They
include:
• additional practice papers to help students prepare for exams
• guidance on how to plan both the AS and A-level courses with supporting schemes of work
for co-teaching
• several AQA-approved student textbooks reviewed by experienced senior examiners
• resources to support key topics, with detailed lesson plans written by experienced teachers
• training courses to help you deliver AQA Biology qualifications
• subject expertise courses for all teachers, from newly-qualified teachers who are just getting
started to experienced teachers looking for fresh inspiration.
Preparing for exams

Visit aqa.org.uk/7402 for everything you need to prepare for our exams, including:
• past papers, mark schemes and examiners’ reports
• sample papers and mark schemes
• Exampro: a searchable bank of past AQA exam questions
• exemplar student answers with examiner commentaries.
Analyse your students' results with Enhanced Results Analysis (ERA)

Find out which questions were the most challenging, how the results compare to previous years
and where your students need to improve. ERA, our free online results analysis tool, will help you
see where to focus your teaching. Register at aqa.org.uk/era
For information about results, including maintaining standards over time, grade boundaries and our
post-results services, visit aqa.org.uk/results
Keep your skills up to date with professional development

Wherever you are in your career, there’s always something new to learn. As well as subject-
specific training, we offer a range of courses to help boost your skills.
• Improve your teaching skills in areas including differentiation, teaching literacy and meeting
Ofsted requirements.
• Prepare for a new role with our leadership and management courses.
You can attend a course at venues around the country, in your school or online – whatever suits
your needs and availability. Find out more at coursesandevents.aqa.org.uk
Get help and support

Visit our website for information, guidance, support and resources at aqa.org.uk/7201
You can talk directly to the Biology subject team:
E: alevelscience@aqa.org.uk
T: 01483 477 756
2 Specification at a glance
These qualifications are linear. Linear means that students will sit all the AS exams at the end of
their AS course and all the A-level exams at the end of their A-level course.
2.1 Subject content

Core content
1 Biological molecules (page 11)
2 Cells (page 20)
3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment (page 26)
4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms (page 31)
5 Energy transfers in and between organisms (A-level only) (page 37)
6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (A-level only)
(page 42)
7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A-level only) (page 48)
8 The control of gene expression (A-level only) (page 53)
2.2 AS
Assessments
Paper 1
What's assessed
• Any content from topics 1–4, including relevant practical skills
Assessed
• written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 75 marks
• 50% of AS
Questions
• 65 marks: short answer questions
• 10 marks: comprehension question
Paper 2
What's assessed
Assessed
• written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 75 marks
• 50% of AS
Questions
• 65 marks: short answer questions
• 10 marks: extended response questions
2.3 A-level
Assessments
Paper 1
What's assessed
Assessed
• written exam: 2 hours
• 91 marks
• 35% of A-level
Questions
• 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
• 15 marks: extended response questions
Paper 2
What's assessed
Assessed
• 91 marks
• 35% of A-level
Questions
• 76 marks: a mixture of short and long answer questions
• 15 marks: comprehension question
Paper 3
What's assessed
Assessed
• 78 marks
• 30% of A-level
Questions
• 38 marks: structured questions, including practical techniques
• 15 marks: critical analysis of given experimental data
• 25 marks: one essay from a choice of two titles
3 Subject content
Sections 1–4 are designed to be covered in the first year of the A-level and are also the AS subject
content. So you can teach AS and A-level together.
Each section begins with an overview, which puts the topic into a broader biological context and
encourages understanding of the place of each topic within the subject. The overview is intended
to encourage an overarching approach to both the teaching and learning of topic areas. As such, it
will not be directly assessed.
These specifications are presented in a two-column format. The left-hand column contains the
specification content that all students must cover and that can be assessed in written papers. The
right-hand column exemplifies the opportunities for skills to be developed throughout the course.
As such, knowledge of individual experiments on the right-hand side is not assumed knowledge for
the assessment.
The codes in the right-hand column refer to the skills in the relevant appendices. MS refers to the
Mathematical Skills, AT refers to the Apparatus and Techniques and PS refers to the Practical
Skills.
3.1 Biological molecules

All life on Earth shares a common chemistry. This provides indirect evidence for evolution.
Despite their great variety, the cells of all living organisms contain only a few groups of carbon-
based compounds that interact in similar ways.
Carbohydrates are commonly used by cells as respiratory substrates. They also form structural
components in plasma membranes and cell walls.
Lipids have many uses, including the bilayer of plasma membranes, certain hormones and as
respiratory substrates.
Proteins form many cell structures. They are also important as enzymes, chemical messengers
and components of the blood.
Nucleic acids carry the genetic code for the production of proteins. The genetic code is common to
viruses and to all living organisms, providing evidence for evolution.
The most common component of cells is water; hence our search for life elsewhere in the universe
involves a search for liquid water.
3.1.1 Monomers and polymers
Content Opportunities for skills
development
The variety of life, both past and present, is extensive, but the
biochemical basis of life is similar for all living things.
Monomers are the smaller units from which larger molecules are
made.
Polymers are molecules made from a large number of monomers
joined together.
Monosaccharides, amino acids and nucleotides are examples of
monomers.
A condensation reaction joins two molecules together with the
formation of a chemical bond and involves the elimination of a
molecule of water.
A hydrolysis reaction breaks a chemical bond between two
molecules and involves the use of a water molecule.
3.1.2 Carbohydrates
development
Monosaccharides are the monomers from which larger AT f

carbohydrates are made. Glucose, galactose and fructose are
Students could use, and
common monosaccharides.
interpret the results of,
A condensation reaction between two monosaccharides forms a qualitative tests for reducing
glycosidic bond. sugars, non-reducing sugars
and starch.
Disaccharides are formed by the condensation of two
monosaccharides: AT g
• maltose is a disaccharide formed by condensation of two Students could use
glucose molecules chromatography, with known
• sucrose is a disaccharide formed by condensation of a standard solutions, to
glucose molecule and a fructose molecule separate a mixture of
• lactose is a disaccharide formed by condensation of a monosaccharides and
glucose molecule and a galactose molecule. identify their components.
AT c
Glucose has two isomers, α-glucose and β-glucose, with
structures: Students could produce a
dilution series of glucose
solution and use colorimetric
techniques to produce a
calibration curve with which
to identify the concentration
of glucose in an unknown
solution.
Polysaccharides are formed by the condensation of many glucose
units.
• Glycogen and starch are formed by the condensation of α-

glucose.
• Cellulose is formed by the condensation of β-glucose.
The basic structure and functions of glycogen, starch and cellulose.
The relationship of structure to function of these substances in
animal cells and plant cells.
Biochemical tests using Benedict's solution for reducing sugars
and non-reducing sugars and iodine/potassium iodide for starch.
3.1.3 Lipids
development
Triglycerides and phospholipids are two groups of lipid. AT f

Triglycerides are formed by the condensation of one molecule of Students could use, and
glycerol and three molecules of fatty acid. interpret the results of, the
emulsion test for lipids.
A condensation reaction between glycerol and a fatty acid
(RCOOH) forms an ester bond.
The R-group of a fatty acid may be saturated or unsaturated.
In phospholipids, one of the fatty acids of a triglyceride is
substituted by a phosphate-containing group.
The different properties of triglycerides and phospholipids related
to their different structures.
The emulsion test for lipids.
Students should be able to:
• recognise, from diagrams, saturated and unsaturated fatty
acids
• explain the different properties of triglycerides and
phospholipids.
3.1.4 Proteins
3.1.4.1 General properties of proteins
development
Amino acids are the monomers from which proteins are made. The AT f
general structure of an amino acid as:
Students could use, and
interpret the results of, a
biuret test for proteins.
AT g
Students could use
chromatography with known
standard solutions, to
where NH2 represents an amine group, COOH represents a separate a mixture of amino
carboxyl group and R represents a side chain. The twenty amino acids and identify their
acids that are common in all organisms differ only in their side components.
group.
A condensation reaction between two amino acids forms a peptide
bond.
• Dipeptides are formed by the condensation of two amino
acids.
• Polypeptides are formed by the condensation of many amino
acids.
A functional protein may contain one or more polypeptides.
The role of hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds and disulfide bridges in
the structure of proteins.
Proteins have a variety of functions within all living organisms. The
relationship between primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary
structure, and protein function.
The biuret test for proteins.
Students should be able to relate the structure of proteins to
properties of proteins named throughout the specification.
3.1.4.2 Many proteins are enzymes
development
Each enzyme lowers the activation energy of the reaction it MS 0.5

catalyses. Students could be given the
The induced-fit model of enzyme action. hydrogen ion concentration
of a solution in order to
The properties of an enzyme relate to the tertiary structure of its calculate its pH, using the
active site and its ability to combine with complementary formula:
substrate(s) to form an enzyme-substrate complex.
pH = − log10 H +
• The specificity of enzymes
• The effects of the following factors on the rate of enzyme-
controlled reactions – enzyme concentration, substrate
concentration, concentration of competitive and of non-
competitive inhibitors, pH and temperature.
• appreciate how models of enzyme action have changed over
time
• appreciate that enzymes catalyse a wide range of
intracellular and extracellular reactions that determine
structures and functions from cellular to whole-organism
level.

development
Required practical 1: Investigation into the effect of a named PS 2.4

variable on the rate of an enzyme-controlled reaction.
Students could identify the
variables that must be
controlled in their
investigation into rate of
reaction.
PS 3.3
Students could calculate the
uncertainty of their
measurements of the rate of
reaction.
MS 3.2
Students could select an
appropriate format for the
graphical presentation of the
results of their investigation
into the rate of enzyme-
controlled reactions.
MS 3.6
Students could use a
tangent to find the initial rate
of an enzyme-controlled
reaction.
3.1.5 Nucleic acids are important information-carrying molecules
3.1.5.1 Structure of DNA and RNA
development
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) are MS 0.3

important information-carrying molecules. In all living cells, DNA
Students could use
holds genetic information and RNA transfers genetic information
incomplete information
from DNA to the ribosomes.
about the frequency of
Ribosomes are formed from RNA and proteins. bases on DNA strands to
find the frequency of other
Both DNA and RNA are polymers of nucleotides. Each nucleotide
bases.
is formed from a pentose, a nitrogen-containing organic base and a
phosphate group:
• The components of a DNA nucleotide are deoxyribose, a

phosphate group and one of the organic bases adenine,
cytosine, guanine or thymine.
• The components of an RNA nucleotide are ribose, a
phosphate group and one of the organic bases adenine,
cytosine, guanine or uracil.
• A condensation reaction between two nucleotides forms a
phosphodiester bond.
A DNA molecule is a double helix with two polynucleotide chains
held together by hydrogen bonds between specific complementary
base pairs.
An RNA molecule is a relatively short polynucleotide chain.
Students should be able to appreciate that the relative simplicity
of DNA led many scientists to doubt that it carried the genetic code.
3.1.5.2 DNA replication

development
The semi-conservative replication of DNA ensures genetic

continuity between generations of cells.
The process of semi-conservative replication of DNA in terms of:
• unwinding of the double helix
• breakage of hydrogen bonds between complementary bases
in the polynucleotide strands
• the role of DNA helicase in unwinding DNA and breaking its
hydrogen bonds
• attraction of new DNA nucleotides to exposed bases on
template strands and base pairing
• the role of DNA polymerase in the condensation reaction that
joins adjacent nucleotides.
Students should be able to evaluate the work of scientists in
validating the Watson–Crick model of DNA replication.
3.1.6 ATP
development
A single molecule of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a nucleotide

derivative and is formed from a molecule of ribose, a molecule of
adenine and three phosphate groups.
Hydrolysis of ATP to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and an

inorganic phosphate group (Pi) is catalysed by the enzyme ATP
hydrolase.
• The hydrolysis of ATP can be coupled to energy-requiring
reactions within cells.
• The inorganic phosphate released during the hydrolysis of
ATP can be used to phosphorylate other compounds, often
making them more reactive.
ATP is resynthesised by the condensation of ADP and Pi. This
reaction is catalysed by the enzyme ATP synthase during
photosynthesis, or during respiration.
3.1.7 Water
development
Water is a major component of cells. It has several properties that

are important in biology. In particular, water:
• is a metabolite in many metabolic reactions, including
condensation and hydrolysis reactions
• is an important solvent in which metabolic reactions occur
• has a relatively high heat capacity, buffering changes in
temperature
• has a relatively large latent heat of vaporisation, providing a
cooling effect with little loss of water through evaporation
• has strong cohesion between water molecules; this supports
columns of water in the tube-like transport cells of plants and
produces surface tension where water meets air.
3.1.8 Inorganic ions

development
Inorganic ions occur in solution in the cytoplasm and body fluids of

organisms, some in high concentrations and others in very low
concentrations.
Each type of ion has a specific role, depending on its properties.
Students should be able to recognise the role of ions in the
following topics: hydrogen ions and pH; iron ions as a component
of haemoglobin; sodium ions in the co-transport of glucose and
amino acids; and phosphate ions as components of DNA and of
ATP.
3.2 Cells
All life on Earth exists as cells. These have basic features in common. Differences between cells
are due to the addition of extra features. This provides indirect evidence for evolution.
All cells arise from other cells, by binary fission in prokaryotic cells and by mitosis and meiosis in
eukaryotic cells.
All cells have a cell-surface membrane and, in addition, eukaryotic cells have internal membranes.
The basic structure of these membranes is the same and enables control of the passage of
substances across exchange surfaces by passive or active transport.
Cell-surface membranes contain embedded proteins. Some of these are involved in cell signalling
– communication between cells. Others act as antigens, allowing recognition of ‘self’ and ‘foreign’
cells by the immune system. Interactions between different types of cell are involved in disease,
recovery from disease and prevention of symptoms occurring at a later date if exposed to the same
antigen, or antigen-bearing pathogen.
3.2.1 Cell structure

The cell theory is a unifying concept in biology.
3.2.1.1 Structure of eukaryotic cells

development
The structure of eukaryotic cells, restricted to the structure and

function of:
• cell-surface membrane
• nucleus (containing chromosomes, consisting of protein-
bound, linear DNA, and one or more nucleoli)
• mitochondria
• chloroplasts (in plants and algae)
• Golgi apparatus and Golgi vesicles
• lysosomes (a membrane-bound organelle that releases
hydrolytic enzymes)
• ribosomes
• rough endoplasmic reticulum and smooth endoplasmic
reticulum
• cell wall (in plants, algae and fungi)
• cell vacuole (in plants).
In complex multicellular organisms, eukaryotic cells become
specialised for specific functions. Specialised cells are organised
into tissues, tissues into organs and organs into systems.
Students should be able to apply their knowledge of these
features in explaining adaptations of eukaryotic cells.
3.2.1.2 Structure of prokaryotic cells and of viruses
development
Prokaryotic cells are much smaller than eukaryotic cells. They also
differ from eukaryotic cells in having:
• cytoplasm that lacks membrane-bound organelles
• smaller ribosomes
• no nucleus; instead they have a single circular DNA molecule
that is free in the cytoplasm and is not associated with
proteins
• a cell wall that contains murein, a glycoprotein.
In addition, many prokaryotic cells have:
• one or more plasmids
• a capsule surrounding the cell
• one or more flagella.
Details of these structural differences are not required.
Viruses are acellular and non-living. The structure of virus particles
to include genetic material, capsid and attachment protein.
3.2.1.3 Methods of studying cells

development
The principles and limitations of optical microscopes, transmission AT d, e and f

electron microscopes and scanning electron microscopes. Students could use iodine in
Measuring the size of an object viewed with an optical microscope. potassium iodide solution to
The difference between magnification and resolution. identify starch grains in plant
cells.
size of image
Use of the formula: magnification = size of real object
MS 1.8
Principles of cell fractionation and ultracentrifugation as used to
separate cell components.
Students should be able to appreciate that there was a
considerable period of time during which the scientific community
distinguished between artefacts and cell organelles.
3.2.2 All cells arise from other cells

development
Within multicellular organisms, not all cells retain the ability to

divide.
Eukaryotic cells that do retain the ability to divide show a cell cycle.
• DNA replication occurs during the interphase of the cell cycle.
• Mitosis is the part of the cell cycle in which a eukaryotic cell
divides to produce two daughter cells, each with the identical
copies of DNA produced by the parent cell during DNA
replication.
The behaviour of chromosomes during interphase, prophase,
metaphase, anaphase and telophase of mitosis. The role of spindle
fibres attached to centromeres in the separation of chromatids.
Division of the cytoplasm (cytokinesis) usually occurs, producing
two new cells.
Meiosis is covered in section 3.4.3
• recognise the stages of the cell cycle: interphase, prophase,
metaphase, anaphase and telophase (including cytokinesis)
• explain the appearance of cells in each stage of mitosis.
Mitosis is a controlled process. Uncontrolled cell division can lead
to the formation of tumours and of cancers. Many cancer
treatments are directed at controlling the rate of cell division.
Binary fission in prokaryotic cells involves:
• replication of the circular DNA and of plasmids
• division of the cytoplasm to produce two daughter cells, each
with a single copy of the circular DNA and a variable number
of copies of plasmids.
Being non-living, viruses do not undergo cell division. Following
injection of their nucleic acid, the infected host cell replicates the
virus particles.
Required practical 2: Preparation of stained squashes of cells AT d and e

from plant root tips; set-up and use of an optical microscope to
MS 0.3
identify the stages of mitosis in these stained squashes and
calculation of a mitotic index. Calculation of a mitotic
index.
Students should measure the apparent size of cells in the root tip
MS 1.8
and calculate their actual size using the formula:
size of image
Actual size = magnification
3.2.3 Transport across cell membranes
development
The basic structure of all cell membranes, including cell-surface

membranes and the membranes around the cell organelles of
eukaryotes, is the same.
The arrangement and any movement of phospholipids, proteins,
glycoproteins and glycolipids in the fluid-mosaic model of
membrane structure. Cholesterol may also be present in cell
membranes where it restricts the movement of other molecules
making up the membrane.
Movement across membranes occurs by:
• simple diffusion (involving limitations imposed by the nature
of the phospholipid bilayer)
• facilitated diffusion (involving the roles of carrier proteins and
channel proteins)
• osmosis (explained in terms of water potential)
• active transport (involving the role of carrier proteins and the
importance of the hydrolysis of ATP)
• co-transport (illustrated by the absorption of sodium ions and
glucose by cells lining the mammalian ileum).
Cells may be adapted for rapid transport across their internal or
external membranes by an increase in surface area of, or by an
increase in the number of protein channels and carrier molecules
in, their membranes.
• explain the adaptations of specialised cells in relation to the
rate of transport across their internal and external
membranes
• explain how surface area, number of channel or carrier
proteins and differences in gradients of concentration or
water potential affect the rate of movement across cell
membranes.
Required practical 3: Production of a dilution series of a solute to MS 3.2

produce a calibration curve with which to identify the water
Students could plot the data
potential of plant tissue.
from their investigations in
Required practical 4: Investigation into the effect of a named an appropriate format.
variable on the permeability of cell-surface membranes.
MS 3.4
Students could determine
the water potential of plant
tissues using the intercept of
a graph of, eg, water
potential of solution against
gain/loss of mass.
3.2.4 Cell recognition and the immune system

development
Each type of cell has specific molecules on its surface that identify
it. These molecules include proteins and enable the immune
system to identify:
• pathogens
• cells from other organisms of the same species
• abnormal body cells
• toxins.
Definition of antigen. The effect of antigen variability on disease
and disease prevention.
Phagocytosis of pathogens. The subsequent destruction of
ingested pathogens by lysozymes.
The response of T lymphocytes to a foreign antigen (the cellular
response).
• The role of antigen-presenting cells in the cellular response.
• The role of helper T cells (TH cells) in stimulating cytotoxic T
cells (TC cells), B cells and phagocytes. The role of other T
cells is not required.
The response of B lymphocytes to a foreign antigen, clonal
selection and the release of monoclonal antibodies (the humoral
response).
• Definition of antibody.
• Antibody structure.
• The formation of an antigen-antibody complex, leading to the
destruction of the antigen, limited to agglutination and
phagocytosis of bacterial cells.
• The roles of plasma cells and of memory cells in producing
primary and secondary immune responses.
The use of vaccines to provide protection for individuals and
populations against disease. The concept of herd immunity.
The differences between active and passive immunity.
development
Structure of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its

replication in helper T cells.
How HIV causes the symptoms of AIDS. Why antibiotics are
ineffective against viruses.
The use of monoclonal antibodies in:
• targeting medication to specific cell types by attaching a
therapeutic drug to an antibody
• medical diagnosis.
Details of the commercial or scientific production of monoclonal
antibodies are not required.
Ethical issues associated with the use of vaccines and monoclonal
antibodies.
The use of antibodies in the ELISA test.
• discuss ethical issues associated with the use of vaccines
and monoclonal antibodies
• evaluate methodology, evidence and data relating to the use
of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.
3.3 Organisms exchange substances with their

environment
The internal environment of a cell or organism is different from its external environment. The
exchange of substances between the internal and external environments takes place at exchange
surfaces. To truly enter or leave an organism, most substances must cross cell plasma
membranes.
In large multicellular organisms, the immediate environment of cells is some form of tissue fluid.
Most cells are too far away from exchange surfaces, and from each other, for simple diffusion
alone to maintain the composition of tissue fluid within a suitable metabolic range. In large
organisms, exchange surfaces are associated with mass transport systems that carry substances
between the exchange surfaces and the rest of the body and between parts of the body. Mass
transport maintains the final diffusion gradients that bring substances to and from the cell
membranes of individual cells. It also helps to maintain the relatively stable environment that is
tissue fluid.
3.3.1 Surface area to volume ratio

development
The relationship between the size of an organism or structure and PS 1.1

its surface area to volume ratio.
Students could use agar
Changes to body shape and the development of systems in larger blocks containing indicator
organisms as adaptations that facilitate exchange as this ratio to determine the effect of
reduces. surface area to volume ratio
and concentration gradient
Students should be able to appreciate the relationship between
on the diffusion of an acid or
surface area to volume ratio and metabolic rate.
alkali.
MS 4.1
Students could be given the
dimensions of cells with
different shapes from which
to calculate the surface area
to volume ratios of these
cells.
3.3.2 Gas exchange
development
Adaptations of gas exchange surfaces, shown by gas exchange: AT j

• across the body surface of a single-celled organism Students could dissect
• in the tracheal system of an insect (tracheae, tracheoles and mammalian lungs, the gas
spiracles) exchange system of a bony
• across the gills of fish (gill lamellae and filaments including fish or of an insect.
the counter-current principle) AT d
• by the leaves of dicotyledonous plants (mesophyll and
stomata). Students could use an
optical microscope to:
Structural and functional compromises between the opposing
needs for efficient gas exchange and the limitation of water loss • examine prepared
shown by terrestrial insects and xerophytic plants. mounts of gas
exchange surfaces of
The gross structure of the human gas exchange system limited to a mammal, fish and
the alveoli, bronchioles, bronchi, trachea and lungs. insect, or temporary
The essential features of the alveolar epithelium as a surface over mounts of gills
which gas exchange takes place. • examine vertical
Ventilation and the exchange of gases in the lungs. The sections through a
mechanism of breathing to include the role of the diaphragm and dicotyledonous leaf.
the antagonistic interaction between the external and internal AT b
intercostal muscles in bringing about pressure changes in the
thoracic cavity. Students could use three-
way taps, manometers and
Students should be able to: simple respirometers to
• interpret information relating to the effects of lung disease on measure volumes of air
gas exchange and/or ventilation involved in gas exchange.
• interpret data relating to the effects of pollution and smoking MS 2.2
on the incidence of lung disease
Students could be given
• analyse and interpret data associated with specific risk
values of pulmonary
factors and the incidence of lung disease
ventilation rate (PVR) and
• evaluate the way in which experimental data led to statutory one other measure,
restrictions on the sources of risk factors requiring them to change the
• recognise correlations and causal relationships. subject of the equation:
PV R = tidal volume
× breathing rate
3.3.3 Digestion and absorption

development
During digestion, large biological molecules are hydrolysed to PS 1.1

smaller molecules that can be absorbed across cell membranes.
Students could:
Digestion in mammals of:
• design and carry out
• carbohydrates by amylases and membrane-bound investigations into the
disaccharidases effect of a pH or bile
• lipids by lipase, including the action of bile salts salts on the rate of
• proteins by endopeptidases, exopeptidases and membrane- reaction catalysed by a
bound dipeptidases. digestive enzyme
• use Visking tubing
Mechanisms for the absorption of the products of digestion by cells models to investigate
lining the ileum of mammals, to include: the absorption of the
• co-transport mechanisms for the absorption of amino acids products of digestion.
and of monosaccharides
• the role of micelles in the absorption of lipids.
3.3.4 Mass transport

Over large distances, efficient movement of substance to and from exchange surfaces is provided
by mass transport.
3.3.4.1 Mass transport in animals
development
The haemoglobins are a group of chemically similar molecules AT h

found in many different organisms. Haemoglobin is a protein with a
Students could design and
quaternary structure.
carry out an investigation
The role of haemoglobin and red blood cells in the transport of into the effect of a named
oxygen. The loading, transport and unloading of oxygen in relation variable on human pulse
to the oxyhaemoglobin dissociation curve. The cooperative nature rate or on the heart rate of
of oxygen binding to show that the change in shape of an invertebrate, such as
haemoglobin caused by binding of the first oxygens makes the Daphnia.
binding of further oxygens easier. The effects of carbon dioxide
MS 2.2
concentration on the dissociation of oxyhaemoglobin (the Bohr
effect). Students could be given
values of cardiac output
Many animals are adapted to their environment by possessing
(CO) and one other
different types of haemoglobin with different oxygen transport
measure, requiring them to
properties.
change the subject of the
The general pattern of blood circulation in a mammal. Names are equation:
required only of the coronary arteries and of the blood vessels
entering and leaving the heart, lungs and kidneys. CO = stroke volume
× heart rate
The gross structure of the human heart. Pressure and volume
changes and associated valve movements during the cardiac cycle
that maintain a unidirectional flow of blood.
The structure of arteries, arterioles and veins in relation to their
function.
The structure of capillaries and the importance of capillary beds as

exchange surfaces. The formation of tissue fluid and its return to
the circulatory system.
• analyse and interpret data relating to pressure and volume
changes during the cardiac cycle
• analyse and interpret data associated with specific risk
factors and the incidence of cardiovascular disease
• evaluate conflicting evidence associated with risk factors
affecting cardiovascular disease
• recognise correlations and causal relationships.
Required practical 5: Dissection of animal or plant gas exchange AT j

system or mass transport system or of organ within such a system.
3.3.4.2 Mass transport in plants

development
Xylem as the tissue that transports water in the stem and leaves of AT b
plants. The cohesion-tension theory of water transport in the xylem.
Students could set up and
Phloem as the tissue that transports organic substances in plants. use a potometer to
The mass flow hypothesis for the mechanism of translocation in investigate the effect of a
plants. The use of tracers and ringing experiments to investigate named environmental
transport in plants. variable on the rate of
transpiration.
• recognise correlations and causal relationships
• interpret evidence from tracer and ringing experiments and to
evaluate the evidence for and against the mass flow
hypothesis.
3.4 Genetic information, variation and relationships

between organisms
Biological diversity – biodiversity – is reflected in the vast number of species of organisms, in the
variation of individual characteristics within a single species and in the variation of cell types within
a single multicellular organism.
Differences between species reflect genetic differences. Differences between individuals within a
species could be the result of genetic factors, of environmental factors, or a combination of both.
A gene is a section of DNA located at a particular site on a DNA molecule, called its locus. The
base sequence of each gene carries the coded genetic information that determines the sequence
of amino acids during protein synthesis. The genetic code used is the same in all organisms,
providing indirect evidence for evolution.
Genetic diversity within a species can be caused by gene mutation, chromosome mutation or
random factors associated with meiosis and fertilisation. This genetic diversity is acted upon by
natural selection, resulting in species becoming better adapted to their environment.
Variation within a species can be measured using differences in the base sequence of DNA or in
the amino acid sequence of proteins.
Biodiversity within a community can be measured using species richness and an index of diversity.
3.4.1 DNA, genes and chromosomes
development
In prokaryotic cells, DNA molecules are short, circular and not

associated with proteins.
In the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, DNA molecules are very long,
linear and associated with proteins, called histones. Together a
DNA molecule and its associated proteins form a chromosome.
The mitochondria and chloroplasts of eukaryotic cells also contain
DNA which, like the DNA of prokaryotes, is short, circular and not
associated with protein.
A gene is a base sequence of DNA that codes for:
• the amino acid sequence of a polypeptide
• a functional RNA (including ribosomal RNA and tRNAs).
A gene occupies a fixed position, called a locus, on a particular
DNA molecule.
A sequence of three DNA bases, called a triplet, codes for a
specific amino acid. The genetic code is universal, non-overlapping
and degenerate.
In eukaryotes, much of the nuclear DNA does not code for
polypeptides. There are, for example, non-coding multiple repeats
of base sequences between genes. Even within a gene only some
sequences, called exons, code for amino acid sequences. Within
the gene, these exons are separated by one or more non-coding
sequences, called introns.
3.4.2 DNA and protein synthesis

development
The concept of the genome as the complete set of genes in a cell

and of the proteome as the full range of proteins that a cell is able
to produce.
The structure of molecules of messenger RNA (mRNA) and of
transfer RNA (tRNA).
Transcription as the production of mRNA from DNA. The role of
RNA polymerase in joining mRNA nucleotides.
• In prokaryotes, transcription results directly in the production
of mRNA from DNA.
• In eukaryotes, transcription results in the production of pre-
mRNA; this is then spliced to form mRNA.
Translation as the production of polypeptides from the sequence of
codons carried by mRNA. The roles of ribosomes, tRNA and ATP.
• relate the base sequence of nucleic acids to the amino acid
sequence of polypeptides, when provided with suitable data
about the genetic code
• interpret data from experimental work investigating the role of
nucleic acids.
Students will not be required to recall in written papers specific
codons and the amino acids for which they code.
3.4.3 Genetic diversity can arise as a result of mutation or during
meiosis
development
Gene mutations involve a change in the base sequence of AT d

chromosomes. They can arise spontaneously during DNA
replication and include base deletion and base substitution. Due to Students could examine
the degenerate nature of the genetic code, not all base meiosis in prepared slides of
substitutions cause a change in the sequence of encoded amino suitable plant or animal
acids. Mutagenic agents can increase the rate of gene mutation. tissue.
Mutations in the number of chromosomes can arise spontaneously MS 0.5

by chromosome non-disjunction during meiosis.
Meiosis produces daughter cells that are genetically different from Students could:
each other. • use the expression 2n
The process of meiosis only in sufficient detail to show how: to calculate the
possible number of
• two nuclear divisions result usually in the formation of four different combinations
haploid daughter cells from a single diploid parent cell of chromosomes
• genetically different daughter cells result from the following meiosis,
independent segregation of homologous chromosomes without crossing over
• crossing over between homologous chromosomes results in
• derive a formula from
further genetic variation among daughter cells.
this to calculate the
Students should be able to: possible number of
different combinations
• complete diagrams showing the chromosome content of cells
of chromosomes
after the first and second meiotic division, when given the
following random
chromosome content of the parent cell
fertilisation of two
• explain the different outcome of mitosis and meiosis gametes,
• recognise where meiosis occurs when given information
about an unfamiliar life cycle where n is the number of
• explain how random fertilisation of haploid gametes further homologous chromosomes
increases genetic variation within a species. pairs.
3.4.4 Genetic diversity and adaptation

development
Genetic diversity as the number of different alleles of genes in a MS 2.5

population.
Students could use a
Genetic diversity is a factor enabling natural selection to occur. logarithmic scale when
dealing with data relating to
The principles of natural selection in the evolution of populations.
large numbers of bacteria in
• Random mutation can result in new alleles of a gene. a culture.
• Many mutations are harmful but, in certain environments, the
new allele of a gene might benefit its possessor, leading to
increased reproductive success.
• The advantageous allele is inherited by members of the next
generation.
• As a result, over many generations, the new allele increases
in frequency in the population.
Directional selection, exemplified by antibiotic resistance in
bacteria, and stabilising selection, exemplified by human birth
weights.
Natural selection results in species that are better adapted to their
environment. These adaptations may be anatomical, physiological
or behavioural.
• use unfamiliar information to explain how selection produces
changes within a population of a species
• interpret data relating to the effect of selection in producing
change within populations
• show understanding that adaptation and selection are major
factors in evolution and contribute to the diversity of living
organisms.
Required practical 6: Use of aseptic techniques to investigate the AT i

effect of antimicrobial substances on microbial growth.
3.4.5 Species and taxonomy
development
Two organisms belong to the same species if they are able to

produce fertile offspring. Courtship behaviour as a necessary
precursor to successful mating. The role of courtship in species
recognition.
A phylogenetic classification system attempts to arrange species
into groups based on their evolutionary origins and relationships. It
uses a hierarchy in which smaller groups are placed within larger
groups, with no overlap between groups. Each group is called a
taxon (plural taxa).
One hierarchy comprises the taxa: domain, kingdom, phylum,
class, order, family, genus and species.
Each species is universally identified by a binomial consisting of
the name of its genus and species, eg, Homo sapiens.
Recall of different taxonomic systems, such as the three domain or
five kingdom systems, will not be required.
Students should be able to appreciate that advances in
immunology and genome sequencing help to clarify evolutionary
relationships between organisms.
3.4.6 Biodiversity within a community

development
Biodiversity can relate to a range of habitats, from a small local MS 2.3

habitat to the Earth.
Species richness is a measure of the number of different species in data from which to calculate
a community. an index of diversity and
interpret the significance of
An index of diversity describes the relationship between the
the calculated value of the
number of species in a community and the number of individuals in
index.
each species.
Calculation of an index of diversity ( d ) from the formula
N N −1
d= Σn n − 1
where N = total number of organisms of all species

and n = total number of organisms of each species.
Farming techniques reduce biodiversity. The balance between
conservation and farming.
3.4.7 Investigating diversity

development
Genetic diversity within, or between species, can be made by AT k

comparing:
Students could:
• the frequency of measurable or observable characteristics
• the base sequence of DNA • design appropriate
methods to ensure
• the base sequence of mRNA
random sampling
• the amino acid sequence of the proteins encoded by DNA
• carry out random
and mRNA.
sampling within a
Students should be able to: single population
• interpret data relating to similarities and differences in the • use random samples
base sequences of DNA and in the amino acid sequences of to investigate the
proteins to suggest relationships between different organisms effect of position on
within a species and between species the growth of leaves.
• appreciate that gene technology has caused a change in the MS 1.2

methods of investigating genetic diversity; inferring DNA Students could use standard
differences from measurable or observable characteristics scientific calculators to
has been replaced by direct investigation of DNA sequences. calculate the mean values of
Knowledge of gene technologies will not be tested. data they have collected or
have been given.
Quantitative investigations of variation within a species involve:
MS 1.10
• collecting data from random samples
Students could calculate,
• calculating a mean value of the collected data and the
and interpret the values of,
standard deviation of that mean
the standard deviations of
• interpreting mean values and their standard deviations.
their mean values.
Students will not be required to calculate standard deviations in
written papers.
3.5 Energy transfers in and between organisms (A-level

only)
Life depends on continuous transfers of energy.
In photosynthesis, light is absorbed by chlorophyll and this is linked to the production of ATP.
In respiration, various substances are used as respiratory substrates. The hydrolysis of these
respiratory substrates is linked to the production of ATP.
In both respiration and photosynthesis, ATP production occurs when protons diffuse down an
electrochemical gradient through molecules of the enzyme ATP synthase, embedded in the
membranes of cellular organelles.
The process of photosynthesis is common in all photoautotrophic organisms and the process of
respiration is common in all organisms, providing indirect evidence for evolution.
In communities, the biological molecules produced by photosynthesis are consumed by other
organisms, including animals, bacteria and fungi. Some of these are used as respiratory substrates
by these consumers.
Photosynthesis and respiration are not 100% efficient. The transfer of biomass and its stored
chemical energy in a community from one organism to a consumer is also not 100% efficient.
3.5.1 Photosynthesis (A-level only)

development
The light-dependent reaction in such detail as to show that: AT a

• chlorophyll absorbs light, leading to photoionisation of Students could devise and
chlorophyll carry out experiments to
• some of the energy from electrons released during investigate the effect of
photoionisation is conserved in the production of ATP and named environmental
reduced NADP variables on the rate of
• the production of ATP involves electron transfer associated photosynthesis using
with the transfer of electrons down the electron transfer chain aquatic plants, algae or
and passage of protons across chloroplast membranes and immobilised algal beads.
is catalysed by ATP synthase embedded in these
membranes (chemiosomotic theory)
• photolysis of water produces protons, electrons and oxygen.
The light-independent reaction uses reduced NADP from the light-
dependent reaction to form a simple sugar. The hydrolysis of ATP,
also from the light-dependent reaction, provides the additional
energy for this reaction.
The light-independent reaction in such detail as to show that:
• carbon dioxide reacts with ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP) to
form two molecules of glycerate 3-phosphate (GP). This
reaction is catalysed by the enzyme rubisco
• ATP and reduced NADP from the light-dependent reaction
are used to reduce GP to triose phosphate
• some of the triose phosphate is used to regenerate RuBP in
the Calvin cycle
• some of the triose phosphate is converted to useful organic
substances.
• identify environmental factors that limit the rate of
photosynthesis
• evaluate data relating to common agricultural practices used
to overcome the effect of these limiting factors.

development
Required practical 7: Use of chromatography to investigate the AT g and b

pigments isolated from leaves of different plants, eg, leaves from
shade-tolerant and shade-intolerant plants or leaves of different
colours.
Required practical 8: Investigation into the effect of a named
factor on the rate of dehydrogenase activity in extracts of
chloroplasts.
3.5.2 Respiration (A-level only)
development
Respiration produces ATP. AT b

Glycolysis is the first stage of anaerobic and aerobic respiration. It Students could use a redox
occurs in the cytoplasm and is an anaerobic process. indicator to investigate
dehydrogenase activity.
Glycolysis involves the following stages:
• phosphorylation of glucose to glucose phosphate, using ATP
• production of triose phosphate
• oxidation of triose phosphate to pyruvate with a net gain of
ATP and reduced NAD.
If respiration is only anaerobic, pyruvate can be converted to
ethanol or lactate using reduced NAD. The oxidised NAD produced
in this way can be used in further glycolysis.
If respiration is aerobic, pyruvate from glycolysis enters the
mitochondrial matrix by active transport.
Aerobic respiration in such detail as to show that:
• pyruvate is oxidised to acetate, producing reduced NAD in
the process
• acetate combines with coenzyme A in the link reaction to
produce acetylcoenzyme A
• acetylcoenzyme A reacts with a four-carbon molecule,
releasing coenzyme A and producing a six-carbon molecule
that enters the Krebs cycle
• in a series of oxidation-reduction reactions, the Krebs cycle
generates reduced coenzymes and ATP by substrate-level
phosphorylation, and carbon dioxide is lost
• synthesis of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation is associated
with the transfer of electrons down the electron transfer chain
and passage of protons across inner mitochondrial
membranes and is catalysed by ATP synthase embedded in
these membranes (chemiosomotic theory)
• other respiratory substrates include the breakdown products
of lipids and amino acids, which enter the Krebs cycle.
Required practical 9: Investigation into the effect of a named AT b and i

variable on the rate of respiration of cultures of single-celled
organisms.
3.5.3 Energy and ecosystems (A-level only)

development
In any ecosystem, plants synthesise organic compounds from MS 0.1

atmospheric, or aquatic, carbon dioxide.
Most of the sugars synthesised by plants are used by the plant as data from which to calculate
respiratory substrates. The rest are used to make other groups of gross primary production
biological molecules. These biological molecules form the biomass and to derive the appropriate
of the plants. units.
Biomass can be measured in terms of mass of carbon or dry mass AT a
of tissue per given area. The chemical energy store in dry biomass
Students could carry out
can be estimated using calorimetry.
investigations to find the dry
Gross primary production ( GPP) is the chemical energy store in mass of plant samples or the
plant biomass, in a given area or volume. energy released by samples
of plant biomass.
Net primary production ( N PP) is the chemical energy store in
plant biomass after respiratory losses to the environment have MS 2.4
been taken into account, Students could be given
ie N PP = GPP – R data from which to calculate:
• the net productivity of
where GPP represents gross production and R represents
producers or
respiratory losses to the environment.
consumers from given
This net primary production is available for plant growth and data
reproduction. It is also available to other trophic levels in the • the efficiency of
ecosystem, such as herbivores and decomposers. energy transfers within
ecosystems.
The net production of consumers ( N ), such as animals, can be
calculated as: MS 0.3
N = I – (F + R) Students could be given

data from which to calculate
where I represents the chemical energy store in ingested food, F percentage yields.
represents the chemical energy lost to the environment in faeces
and urine and R represents the respiratory losses to the
environment.
Primary and secondary productivity is the rate of primary or
secondary production, respectively. It is measured as biomass in a
given area in a given time eg kJ ha–1 year–1.
Students should be able to appreciate the ways in which
production is affected by farming practices designed to increase
the efficiency of energy transfer by:
• simplifying food webs to reduce energy losses to non-human
food chains
• reducing respiratory losses within a human food chain.
3.5.4 Nutrient cycles (A-level only)
development
Nutrients are recycled within natural ecosystems, exemplified by PS 1.1

the nitrogen cycle and the phosphorus cycle. Students could devise
Microorganisms play a vital role in recycling chemical elements investigations into the effect
such as phosphorus and nitrogen. of named minerals on plant
growth.
• The role of saprobionts in decomposition.
• The role of mycorrhizae in facilitating the uptake of water and
inorganic ions by plants.
• The role of bacteria in the nitrogen cycle in sufficient detail to
illustrate the processes of saprobiotic nutrition,
ammonification, nitrification, nitrogen fixation and
denitrification.
(The names of individual species of bacteria are not required).
The use of natural and artificial fertilisers to replace the nitrates and
phosphates lost by harvesting plants and removing livestock.
The environmental issues arising from the use of fertilisers
including leaching and eutrophication.
3.6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and

external environments (A-level only)
A stimulus is a change in the internal or external environment. A receptor detects a stimulus. A
coordinator formulates a suitable response to a stimulus. An effector produces a response.
Receptors are specific to one type of stimulus.
Nerve cells pass electrical impulses along their length. A nerve impulse is specific to a target cell
only because it releases a chemical messenger directly onto it, producing a response that is
usually rapid, short-lived and localised.
In contrast, mammalian hormones stimulate their target cells via the blood system. They are
specific to the tertiary structure of receptors on their target cells and produce responses that are
usually slow, long-lasting and widespread.
Plants control their response using hormone-like growth substances.
3.6.1 Stimuli, both internal and external, are detected and lead to a
response (A-level only)
3.6.1.1 Survival and response (A-level only)
development
Organisms increase their chance of survival by responding to AT h

changes in their environment.
In flowering plants, specific growth factors move from growing carry out investigations into
regions to other tissues, where they regulate growth in response to the effects of indoleacetic
directional stimuli. acid on root growth in
seedlings.
The effect of different concentrations of indoleacetic acid (IAA) on
cell elongation in the roots and shoots of flowering plants as an
explanation of gravitropism and phototropism in flowering plants.
Taxes and kineses as simple responses that can maintain a mobile
organism in a favourable environment.
The protective effect of a simple reflex, exemplified by a three-
neurone simple reflex. Details of spinal cord and dorsal and ventral
roots are not required.
Required practical 10: Investigation into the effect of an AT h

environmental variable on the movement of an animal using either
a choice chamber or a maze.
3.6.1.2 Receptors (A-level only)

development
The Pacinian corpuscle should be used as an example of a AT h

receptor to illustrate that:
• receptors respond only to specific stimuli carry out investigations into:
• stimulation of a receptor leads to the establishment of a • the sensitivity of
generator potential. temperature receptors
The basic structure of a Pacinian corpuscle. in human skin
• habituation of touch
Deformation of stretch-mediated sodium ion channels in a Pacinian
receptors in human
corpuscle leads to the establishment of a generator potential.
skin
The human retina in sufficient detail to show how differences in • resolution of touch
sensitivity to light, sensitivity to colour and visual acuity are receptors in human
explained by differences in the optical pigments of rods and cones skin.
and the connections rods and cones make in the optic nerve.
3.6.1.3 Control of heart rate (A-level only)
development
Myogenic stimulation of the heart and transmission of a AT h

subsequent wave of electrical activity. The roles of the sinoatrial
node (SAN), atrioventricular node (AVN) and Purkyne tissue in the
carry out an investigation
bundle of His.
into the effect of a named
The roles and locations of chemoreceptors and pressure receptors variable on human pulse
and the roles of the autonomic nervous system and effectors in rate.
controlling heart rate.
MS 2.2
Students could use values of
heart rate (R) and stroke
volume (V) to calculate
cardiac output (CO), using
the formula CO = R × V
3.6.2 Nervous coordination (A-level only)

3.6.2.1 Nerve impulses (A-level only)
development
The structure of a myelinated motor neurone. MS 0.2

The establishment of a resting potential in terms of differential Students could use
membrane permeability, electrochemical gradients and the appropriate units when
movement of sodium ions and potassium ions. calculating the maximum
frequency of impulse
Changes in membrane permeability lead to depolarisation and the
conduction given the
generation of an action potential. The all-or-nothing principle.
refractory period of a
The passage of an action potential along non-myelinated and neurone.
myelinated axons, resulting in nerve impulses.
The nature and importance of the refractory period in producing
discrete impulses and in limiting the frequency of impulse
transmission.
Factors affecting the speed of conductance: myelination and
saltatory conduction; axon diameter; temperature.
3.6.2.2 Synaptic transmission (A-level only)

development
The detailed structure of a synapse and of a neuromuscular

junction.
The sequence of events involved in transmission across a
cholinergic synapse in sufficient detail to explain:
• unidirectionality
• temporal and spatial summation
• inhibition by inhibitory synapses.
A comparison of transmission across a cholinergic synapse and
across a neuromuscular junction.
Students should be able to use information provided to predict
and explain the effects of specific drugs on a synapse.
(Recall of the names and mode of action of individual drugs will not
be required.)
3.6.3 Skeletal muscles are stimulated to contract by nerves and act as

effectors (A-level only)
development
Muscles act in antagonistic pairs against an incompressible AT d

skeleton.
Students could examine
Gross and microscopic structure of skeletal muscle. The prepared slides of skeletal
ultrastructure of a myofibril. muscle using an optical
microscope.
The roles of actin, myosin, calcium ions and ATP in myofibril
contraction. AT h
The roles of calcium ions and tropomyosin in the cycle of Students could investigate
actinomyosin bridge formation. (The role of troponin is not the effect of repeated
required.) muscular contraction on the
rate of muscle fatigue in
The roles of ATP and phosphocreatine in muscle contraction.
human vounteers.
The structure, location and general properties of slow and fast
skeletal muscle fibres.
3.6.4 Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal
environment (A-level only)
3.6.4.1 Principles of homeostasis and negative feedback (A-level only)
development
Homeostasis in mammals involves physiological control systems

that maintain the internal environment within restricted limits.
The importance of maintaining a stable core temperature and
stable blood pH in relation to enzyme activity.
The importance of maintaining a stable blood glucose
concentration in terms of availability of respiratory substrate and of
the water potential of blood.
Negative feedback restores systems to their original level.
The possession of separate mechanisms involving negative
feedback controls departures in different directions from the
original state, giving a greater degree of control.
Students should be able to interpret information relating to
examples of negative and positive feedback.
3.6.4.2 Control of blood glucose concentration (A-level only)

development
The factors that influence blood glucose concentration.

The role of the liver in glycogenesis, glycogenolysis and
gluconeogenesis.
The action of insulin by:
• attaching to receptors on the surfaces of target cells
• controlling the uptake of glucose by regulating the inclusion
of channel proteins in the surface membranes of target cells
• activating enzymes involved in the conversion of glucose to
glycogen.
The action of glucagon by:
• activating enzymes involved in the conversion of glycogen to
glucose
• activating enzymes involved in the conversion of glycerol and
amino acids into glucose.
The role of adrenaline by:
• activating enzymes involved in the conversion of glycogen to
glucose.
The second messenger model of adrenaline and glucagon action,
involving adenylate cyclase, cyclic AMP (cAMP) and protein
kinase.
The causes of types I and II diabetes and their control by insulin
and/or manipulation of the diet.
Students should be able to evaluate the positions of health
advisers and the food industry in relation to the increased
incidence of type II diabetes.
Required practical 11: Production of a dilution series of a glucose AT b and c

solution and use of colorimetric techniques to produce a calibration
curve with which to identify the concentration of glucose in an
unknown ‘urine’ sample.
3.6.4.3 Control of blood water potential (A-level only)
development
Osmoregulation as control of the water potential of the blood.

The roles of the hypothalamus, posterior pituitary and antidiuretic
hormone (ADH) in osmoregulation.
The structure of the nephron and its role in:
• the formation of glomerular filtrate
• reabsorption of glucose and water by the proximal convoluted
tubule
• maintaining a gradient of sodium ions in the medulla by the
loop of Henle
• reabsorption of water by the distal convoluted tubule and
collecting ducts.
3.7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A-

level only)
The theory of evolution underpins modern Biology. All new species arise from an existing species.
This results in different species sharing a common ancestry, as represented in phylogenetic
classification. Common ancestry can explain the similarities between all living organisms, such as
common chemistry (eg all proteins made from the same 20 or so amino acids), physiological
pathways (eg anaerobic respiration), cell structure, DNA as the genetic material and a ‘universal’
genetic code.
The individuals of a species share the same genes but (usually) different combinations of alleles of
these genes. An individual inherits alleles from their parent or parents.
A species exists as one or more populations. There is variation in the phenotypes of organisms in
a population, due to genetic and environmental factors. Two forces affect genetic variation in
populations: genetic drift and natural selection. Genetic drift can cause changes in allele frequency
in small populations. Natural selection occurs when alleles that enhance the fitness of the
individuals that carry them rise in frequency. A change in the allele frequency of a population is
evolution.
If a population becomes isolated from other populations of the same species, there will be no gene
flow between the isolated population and the others. This may lead to the accumulation of genetic
differences in the isolated population, compared with the other populations. These differences may
ultimately lead to organisms in the isolated population becoming unable to breed and produce
fertile offspring with organisms from the other populations. This reproductive isolation means that a
new species has evolved.
Populations of different species live in communities. Competition occurs within and between these
populations for the means of survival. Within a single community, one population is affected by
other populations, the biotic factors, in its environment. Populations within communities are also
affected by, and in turn affect, the abiotic (physicochemical) factors in an ecosystem.
3.7.1 Inheritance (A-level only)

development
The genotype is the genetic constitution of an organism. AT h

The phenotype is the expression of this genetic constitution and its Students could investigate
interaction with the environment. genetic ratios using crosses
of Drosophila or Fast Plant®
There may be many alleles of a single gene.
MS 0.3
Alleles may be dominant, recessive or codominant.
Students could use
In a diploid organism, the alleles at a specific locus may be either
information to represent
homozygous or heterozygous.
phenotypic ratios in
The use of fully labelled genetic diagrams to interpret, or predict, monohybrid and dihybrid
the results of: crosses.
• monohybrid and dihybrid crosses involving dominant, MS 1.4
recessive and codominant alleles
Students could show
• crosses involving sex-linkage, autosomal linkage, multiple
understanding of the
alleles and epistasis.
probability associated with
2
Use of the chi-squared ( Χ ) test to compare the goodness of fit of inheritance.
observed phenotypic ratios with expected ratios. MS 1.9
2
Students could use the Χ
test to investigate the
significance of differences
between expected and
observed phenotypic ratios.
3.7.2 Populations (A-level only)
development
Species exist as one or more populations. AT k

A population as a group of organisms of the same species Students could collect data
occupying a particular space at a particular time that can potentially about the frequency of
interbreed. observable phenotypes
within a single population.
The concepts of gene pool and allele frequency.
MS 2.4
The Hardy–Weinberg principle provides a mathematical model,
which predicts that allele frequencies will not change from Students could calculate
generation to generation. The conditions under which the principle allele, genotype and
applies. phenotype frequencies from
appropriate data using the
The frequency of alleles, genotypes and phenotypes in a
Hardy–Weinberg equation.
population can be calculated using the Hardy–Weinberg equation:
p2 + 2 pq + q2 = 1
where p is the frequency of one (usually the dominant) allele and q
is the frequency of the other (usually recessive) allele of the gene.
3.7.3 Evolution may lead to speciation (A-level only)

development
Individuals within a population of a species may show a wide range MS 1.5

of variation in phenotype. This is due to genetic and environmental
Students could apply their
factors. The primary source of genetic variation is mutation.
knowledge of sampling to
Meiosis and the random fertilisation of gametes during sexual
the concept of genetic drift.
reproduction produce further genetic variation.
PS 1.2
Predation, disease and competition for the means of survival result
in differential survival and reproduction, ie natural selection. Students could devise an
investigation to mimic the
Those organisms with phenotypes providing selective advantages
effects of random sampling
are likely to produce more offspring and pass on their favourable
on allele frequencies in a
alleles to the next generation. The effect of this differential
population.
reproductive success on the allele frequencies within a gene pool.
AT l
The effects of stabilising, directional and disruptive selection.
Students could use
Evolution as a change in the allele frequencies in a population.
computer programs to model
Reproductive separation of two populations can result in the the effects of natural
accumulation of difference in their gene pools. New species arise selection and of genetic drift.
when these genetic differences lead to an inability of members of
the populations to interbreed and produce fertile offspring. In this
way, new species arise from existing species.
Allopatric and sympatric speciation.
The importance of genetic drift in causing changes in allele
frequency in small populations.
• explain why individuals within a population of a species may
show a wide range of variation in phenotype
• explain why genetic drift is important only in small
populations
• explain how natural selection and isolation may result in
change in the allele and phenotype frequency and lead to the
formation of a new species
• explain how evolutionary change over a long period of time
has resulted in a great diversity of species.
3.7.4 Populations in ecosystems (A-level only)
development
Populations of different species form a community. A community AT k

and the non-living components of its environment together form an
Students could:
ecosystem. Ecosystems can range in size from the very small to
the very large. • investigate the
distribution of
Within a habitat, a species occupies a niche governed by
organisms in a named
adaptation to both abiotic and biotic conditions.
habitat using randomly
An ecosystem supports a certain size of population of a species, placed frame quadrats,
called the carrying capacity. This population size can vary as a or a belt transect
result of: • use both percentage
• the effect of abiotic factors cover and frequency
as measures of
• interactions between organisms: interspecific and
abundance of a sessile
intraspecific competition and predation.
species.
The size of a population can be estimated using:
AT h
• randomly placed quadrats, or quadrats along a belt transect,
Students could use the
for slow-moving or non-motile organisms
mark-release-recapture
• the mark-release-recapture method for motile organisms. The method to investigate the
assumptions made when using the mark-release-recapture abundance of a motile
method. species.
Ecosystems are dynamic systems. AT i
Primary succession, from colonisation by pioneer species to climax Students could use turbidity
community. measurements to investigate
At each stage in succession, certain species may be recognised the growth rate of a broth
which change the environment so that it becomes more suitable for culture of microorganisms.
other species with different adaptations. The new species may MS 2.5
change the environment in such a way that it becomes less
suitable for the previous species. Students could use a
logarithmic scale in
Changes that organisms produce in their abiotic environment can representing the growth of a
result in a less hostile environment and change biodiversity. population of
Conservation of habitats frequently involves management of microorganisms.
succession.
• show understanding of the need to manage the conflict
between human needs and conservation in order to maintain
the sustainability of natural resources
• evaluate evidence and data concerning issues relating to the
conservation of species and habitats and consider conflicting
evidence
• use given data to calculate the size of a population estimated
using the mark-release-recapture method.

development
Required practical 12: Investigation into the effect of a named AT a and k

environmental factor on the distribution of a given species.
3.8 The control of gene expression (A-level only)

Cells are able to control their metabolic activities by regulating the transcription and translation of
their genome. Although the cells within an organism carry the same coded genetic information,
they translate only part of it. In multicellular organisms, this control of translation enables cells to
have specialised functions, forming tissues and organs.
There are many factors that control the expression of genes and, thus, the phenotype of
organisms. Some are external, environmental factors, others are internal factors. The expression
of genes is not as simple as once thought, with epigenetic regulation of transcription being
increasingly recognised as important.
Humans are learning how to control the expression of genes by altering the epigenome, and how
to alter genomes and proteomes of organisms. This has many medical and technological
applications.
Consideration of cellular control mechanisms underpins the content of this section. Students who
have studied it should develop an understanding of the ways in which organisms and cells control
their activities. This should lead to an appreciation of common ailments resulting from a breakdown
of these control mechanisms and the use of DNA technology in the diagnosis and treatment of
human diseases.
3.8.1 Alteration of the sequence of bases in DNA can alter the

structure of proteins (A-level only)
development
Gene mutations might arise during DNA replication. They include

addition, deletion, substitution, inversion, duplication and
translocation of bases.
Gene mutations occur spontaneously. The mutation rate is
increased by mutagenic agents. Mutations can result in a different
amino acid sequence in the encoded polypeptide.
• Some gene mutations change only one triplet code. Due to
the degenerate nature of the genetic code, not all such
mutations result in a change to the encoded amino acid.
• Some gene mutations change the nature of all base triplets
downstream from the mutation, ie result in a frame shift.
Students should be able to relate the nature of a gene mutation
to its effect on the encoded polypeptide.
3.8.2 Gene expression is controlled by a number of features (A-level
only)
3.8.2.1 Most of a cell’s DNA is not translated (A-level only)
development
Totipotent cells can divide and produce any type of body cell. AT i
During development, totipotent cells translate only part of their Students could produce
DNA, resulting in cell specialisation. tissue cultures of explants of
cauliflower (Brassica
Totipotent cells occur only for a limited time in early mammalian oleracea).
embryos.
Pluripotent cells are found in embryos; multipotent and unipotent
cells are found in mature mammals and can divide to form a limited
number of different cell types.
• Pluripotent stem cells can divide in unlimited numbers and
can be used in treating human disorders.
• Unipotent cells, exemplified by the formation of
cardiomyocytes.
• Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) can be produced
from adult somatic cells using appropriate protein
transcription factors.
Students should be able to evaluate the use of stem cells in
treating human disorders.
3.8.2.2 Regulation of transcription and translation (A-level only)

development
In eukaryotes, transcription of target genes can be stimulated or

inhibited when specific transcriptional factors move from the
cytoplasm into the nucleus. The role of the steroid hormone,
oestrogen, in initiating transcription.
Epigenetic control of gene expression in eukaryotes.
Epigenetics involves heritable changes in gene function, without
changes to the base sequence of DNA. These changes are caused
by changes in the environment that inhibit transcription by:
• increased methylation of the DNA or
• decreased acetylation of associated histones.
The relevance of epigenetics on the development and treatment of
disease, especially cancer.
In eukaryotes and some prokaryotes, translation of the mRNA
produced from target genes can be inhibited by RNA interference
(RNAi).
• interpret data provided from investigations into gene
expression
• evaluate appropriate data for the relative influences of
genetic and environmental factors on phenotype.
3.8.2.3 Gene expression and cancer (A-level only)

development
The main characteristics of benign and malignant tumours.

The role of the following in the development of tumours:
• tumour suppressor genes and oncogenes
• abnormal methylation of tumour suppressor genes and
oncogenes
• increased oestrogen concentrations in the development of
some breast cancers.
• evaluate evidence showing correlations between genetic and
environmental factors and various forms of cancer
• interpret information relating to the way in which an
understanding of the roles of oncogenes and tumour
suppressor genes could be used in the prevention, treatment
and cure of cancer.
3.8.3 Using genome projects (A-level only)
development
Sequencing projects have read the genomes of a wide range of

organisms, including humans.
Determining the genome of simpler organisms allows the
sequences of the proteins that derive from the genetic code (the
proteome) of the organism to be determined. This may have many
applications, including the identification of potential antigens for
use in vaccine production.
In more complex organisms, the presence of non-coding DNA and
of regulatory genes means that knowledge of the genome cannot
easily be translated into the proteome.
Sequencing methods are continuously updated and have become
automated.
3.8.4 Gene technologies allow the study and alteration of gene

function allowing a better understanding of organism function and the
design of new industrial and medical processes (A-level only)
3.8.4.1 Recombinant DNA technology (A-level only)
development
Recombinant DNA technology involves the transfer of fragments of AT g

DNA from one organism, or species, to another. Since the genetic
Students could investigate
code is universal, as are transcription and translation mechanisms,
the specificity of restriction
the transferred DNA can be translated within cells of the recipient
enzymes using extracted
(transgenic) organism.
DNA and electrophoresis.
Fragments of DNA can be produced by several methods, including:
• conversion of mRNA to complementary DNA (cDNA), using
reverse transcriptase
• using restriction enzymes to cut a fragment containing the
desired gene from DNA
• creating the gene in a ‘gene machine’.
Fragments of DNA can be amplified by in vitro and in vivo
techniques.
The principles of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as an in
vitro method to amplify DNA fragments.
The culture of transformed host cells as an in vivo method to
amplify DNA fragments.
• The addition of promoter and terminator regions to the
fragments of DNA.
• The use of restriction endonucleases and ligases to insert
fragments of DNA into vectors. Transformation of host cells
using these vectors.
• The use of marker genes to detect genetically modified (GM)
cells or organisms. (Students will not be required to recall
specific marker genes in a written paper.)
• interpret information relating to the use of recombinant DNA
technology
• evaluate the ethical, financial and social issues associated
with the use and ownership of recombinant DNA technology
in agriculture, in industry and in medicine
• balance the humanitarian aspects of recombinant DNA
technology with the opposition from environmentalists and
anti-globalisation activists
• relate recombinant DNA technology to gene therapy.
3.8.4.2 Differences in DNA between individuals of the same species can be exploited
for identification and diagnosis of heritable conditions (A-level only)
development
The use of labelled DNA probes and DNA hybridisation to locate

specific alleles of genes.
The use of labelled DNA probes that can be used to screen
patients for heritable conditions, drug responses or health risks.
The use of this information in genetic counselling and personalised
medicine.
Students should be able to evaluate information relating to
screening individuals for genetically determined conditions and
drug responses.
3.8.4.3 Genetic fingerprinting (A-level only)

development
An organism’s genome contains many variable number tandem AT g

repeats (VNTRs). The probability of two individuals having the
Students could use gel
same VNTRs is very low.
electrophoresis to produce
The technique of genetic fingerprinting in analysing DNA fragments ‘fingerprints’ of food dyes.
that have been cloned by PCR, and its use in determining genetic
relationships and in determining the genetic variability within a
population.
The use of genetic fingerprinting in the fields of forensic science,
medical diagnosis, animal and plant breeding.
• explain the biological principles that underpin genetic
fingerprinting techniques
• interpret data showing the results of gel electrophoresis to
separate DNA fragments
• explain why scientists might use genetic fingerprinting in the
fields of forensic science, medical diagnosis, animal and
plant breeding.
4 Scheme of assessment
Find past papers and mark schemes, and specimen papers for new courses, on our website at
aqa.org.uk/pastpapers
The AS specification is designed to be taken over one or two years with all assessments taken at
the end of the course. The A-level specification is designed to be taken over two years with all
assessments taken at the end of the course.
Assessments and certification for the AS specification are available for the first time in May/June
and then every May/June for the life of the specification.
Assessments and certification for the A-level specification are available for the first time in May/
June and then every May/June for the life of the specification.
These are linear qualifications. In order to achieve the award, students must complete all exams in
May/June in a single year. All assessments must be taken in the same series.
Questions for these specifications will be set which require students to demonstrate
• their knowledge and understanding of the content developed in one section or topic,
including the associated mathematical and practical skills or
• the ability to apply mathematical and practical skills to areas of content they are not normally
developed in or
• the ability to draw together different areas of knowledge and understanding within one
answer.
A range of question types will be used, including those that require extended responses. Extended
response questions will allow students to demonstrate their ability to construct and develop a
sustained line of reasoning which is coherent, relevant, substantiated and logically structured.
Extended responses may be in written English, extended calculations, or a combination of both, as
appropriate to the question.
All materials are available in English only.
4.1 Aims
Courses based on these specifications should encourage students to:
• develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how
they relate to each other
• develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of
scientific methods
• develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem
solving skills
• develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in
further study and careers associated with the subject
• understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences
contribute to the success of the economy and society.
4.2 Assessment objectives
Assessment objectives (AOs) are set by Ofqual and are the same across all AS and A-level
Biology specifications and all exam boards.
The exams will measure how students have achieved the following assessment objectives.
• AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques
and procedures
• AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and
procedures:
• in a theoretical context
• in a practical context
• when handling qualitative data
• when handling quantitative data
• AO3: Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, ideas and evidence, including in
relation to issues, to:
• make judgements and reach conclusions
• develop and refine practical design and procedures.
Weighting of assessment objectives for AS Biology

Assessment objectives (AOs) Component Overall weighting
weightings (approx (approx %)
%)
Paper 1 Paper 2
AO1 47–51 33–37 35–40
AO2 35–39 41–45 40–45
AO3 13–17 21–25 20–25
Overall weighting of components 50 50 100
10% of the overall assessment of AS Biology will contain mathematical skills equivalent to Level 2
or above.
At least 15% of the overall assessment of AS Biology will assess knowledge, skills and
understanding in relation to practical work.
Weighting of assessment objectives for A-level Biology

Assessment objectives (AOs) Component weightings Overall weighting
(approx %) (approx %)
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3
AO1 44–48 23–27 28–32 30–35
AO2 30–34 52–56 35–39 40–45
AO3 20–24 19–23 31–35 25–30
Overall weighting of components 35 35 30 100
10% of the overall assessment of A-level Biology will contain mathematical skills equivalent to
Level 2 or above.
At least 15% of the overall assessment of A-level Biology will assess knowledge, skills and
understanding in relation to practical work.
4.3 Assessment weightings

The marks awarded on the papers will be scaled to meet the weighting of the components.
Students' final marks will be calculated by adding together the scaled marks for each component.
Grade boundaries will be set using this total scaled mark. The scaling and total scaled marks are
shown in the table below.
AS
Component Maximum raw mark Scaling factor Maximum scaled mark
Paper 1 75 x1 75
Paper 2 75 x1 75
Total scaled mark: 150
A-level
Component Maximum raw mark Scaling factor Maximum scaled mark
Paper 1 91 x1 91
Paper 2 91 x1 91
Paper 3 78 x1 78
Total scaled mark: 260
5 General administration
You can find information about all aspects of administration, as well as all the forms you need, at
aqa.org.uk/examsadmin
5.1 Entries and codes

You only need to make one entry for each qualification.
Every specification is given a national discount (classification) code by the Department for
Education (DfE), which indicates its subject area.
If a student takes two specifications with the same discount code, Further and Higher Education
providers are likely to take the view that they have only achieved one of the two qualifications.
Please check this before your students start their course.
Qualification title AQA DfE

entry discount
code code
AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Biology 7401 1010
(post-16)
, RH3
(KS4)
AQA Advanced Level GCE in Biology 7402 1010
These specifications comply with Ofqual’s:

• General conditions of recognition that apply to all regulated qualifications
• GCE qualification level conditions that apply to all GCEs
• GCE subject level conditions that apply to all GCEs in this subject
• all relevant regulatory documents.
Ofqual has accredited these specifications. The qualification accreditation number (QAN) for the
AS is 601/4624/2. The QAN for the A-level is 601/4625/4.
5.2 Overlaps with other qualifications

There is overlapping content in the AS and A-level Biology specifications. This helps you teach the
AS and A-level together.
5.3 Awarding grades and reporting results

The A-level qualification will be graded on a six-point scale: A*, A, B, C, D and E.
Students who fail to reach the minimum standard for grade E will be recorded as U (unclassified)
and will not receive a qualification certificate.
5.4 Re-sits and shelf life
Students can re-sit the qualifications as many times as they wish, within the shelf life of the
qualifications.
5.5 Previous learning and prerequisites

There are no previous learning requirements. Any requirements for entry to a course based on
these specifications are at the discretion of schools and colleges.
However, we recommend that students should have the skills and knowledge associated with at
least GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Biology (or equivalent qualifications).
5.6 Access to assessment: diversity and inclusion

General qualifications are designed to prepare students for a wide range of occupations and
further study. Therefore our qualifications must assess a wide range of competences.
The subject criteria have been assessed to see if any of the skills or knowledge required present
any possible difficulty to any students, whatever their ethnic background, religion, sex, age,
disability or sexuality. If any difficulties were encountered, the criteria were reviewed again to make
sure that tests of specific competences were only included if they were important to the subject.
As members of the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) we participate in the production of the
JCQ document Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments: General and Vocational
qualifications. We follow these guidelines when assessing the needs of individual students who
may require an access arrangement or reasonable adjustment. This document is published on the
JCQ website at jcq.org.uk
Students with disabilities and special needs

We can make arrangements for disabled students and students with special needs to help them
access the assessments, as long as the competences being tested are not changed. Access
arrangements must be agreed before the assessment. For example, a Braille paper would be a
reasonable adjustment for a Braille reader but not for a student who does not read Braille.
We are required by the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments to remove or lessen
any disadvantage that affects a disabled student.
If you have students who need access arrangements or reasonable adjustments, you can apply
using the Access arrangements online service at aqa.org.uk/eaqa
Special consideration
We can give special consideration to students who have been disadvantaged at the time of the
assessment through no fault of their own – for example a temporary illness, injury or serious
problem such as the death of a relative. We can only do this after the assessment.
Your exams officer should apply online for special consideration at aqa.org.uk/eaqa
For more information and advice about access arrangements, reasonable adjustments and special
consideration please see aqa.org.uk/access or email accessarrangementsqueries@aqa.org.uk
5.7 Working with AQA for the first time

If your school or college has not previously offered any AQA specification, you need to register as
an AQA centre to offer our specifications to your students. Find out how at aqa.org.uk/
becomeacentre
If your school or college is new to these specifications, please let us know by completing an
Intention to enter form. The easiest way to do this is via e-AQA at aqa.org.uk/eaqa
5.8 Private candidates

A private candidate is someone who enters for exams through an AQA-approved school or college
but is not enrolled as a student there.
If you are a private candidate you may be self-taught, home-schooled or have private tuition, either
with a tutor or through a distance learning organisation. You must be based in the UK.
If you have any queries as a private candidate, you can:
• speak to the exams officer at the school or college where you intend to take your exams
• visit our website at aqa.org.uk/examsadmin
• email: privatecandidates@aqa.org.uk
6 Mathematical requirements
and exemplifications
In order to be able to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding in Biology, students need
to have been taught, and to have acquired competence in, the appropriate areas of mathematics
as indicated in the table of coverage below.
Overall, at least 10% of the marks in assessments for biology will require the use of mathematical
skills. These skills will be applied in the context of biology and will be at least the standard of higher
tier GCSE mathematics.
The following tables illustrate where these mathematical skills may be developed during teaching
or could be assessed. Those shown in bold type would only be tested in the full A-level course.
This list of examples is not exhaustive. These skills could be developed or assessed in other areas
of specification content. Other areas where these skills could be developed have been exemplified
throughout these specifications.
6.1 Arithmetic and numerical computation

Mathematical skills Exemplification of mathematical skill in the
context of Biology
MS 0.1 Recognise and make use of Students may be tested on their ability to:
appropriate units in calculations
• convert between units, eg mm3 to cm3 as
part of volumetric calculations
• work out the unit for a rate, eg breathing rate
MS 0.2 Recognise and use expressions in Students may be tested on their ability to:
decimal and standard form
• use an appropriate number of decimal
places in calculations, eg for a mean
• carry out calculations using numbers in
standard and ordinary form, eg use of
magnification
• understand standard form when applied to
areas such as size of organelles
• convert between numbers in standard and
ordinary form
• understand that significant figures need
retaining when making conversions between
standard and ordinary form, eg
0.0050 mol dm–3
is equivalent to
5.0 × 10–3 mol dm–3
context of Biology
MS 0.3 Use ratios, fractions and Students may be tested on their ability to:
percentages
• calculate percentage yields
• calculate surface area to volume ratio
• use scales for measuring
• represent phenotypic ratios (monohybrid and
dihybrid crosses)
MS 0.4 Estimate results Students may be tested on their ability to:

• estimate results to sense check that the
calculated values are appropriate
MS 0.5 Use calculators to find and use Students may be tested on their ability to:
power, exponential and
• estimate the number of bacteria grown
logarithmic functions
over a certain length of time
6.2 Handling data

context of Biology
MS 1.1 Use an appropriate number of Students may be tested on their ability to:
significant figures
• report calculations to an appropriate number
of significant figures given raw data quoted
to varying numbers of significant figures
• understand that calculated results can only
be reported to the limits of the least accurate
measurement
MS 1.2 Find arithmetic means Students may be tested on their ability to:
• find the mean of a range of data, eg the
mean number of stomata in the leaves of a
plant

context of Biology
MS 1.3 Construct and interpret frequency Students may be tested on their ability to:
tables and diagrams, bar charts and
• represent a range of data in a table with
histograms
clear headings, units and consistent decimal
places
• interpret data from a variety of tables, eg
data relating to organ function
• plot a range of data in an appropriate format,
eg enzyme activity over time represented on
a graph
• interpret data for a variety of graphs, eg
explain electrocardiogram traces
MS 1.4 Understand simple probability Students may be tested on their ability to:
• use the terms probability and chance
appropriately
• understand the probability associated with
genetic inheritance
MS 1.5 Understand the principles of Students may be tested on their ability to:
sampling as applied to scientific
• analyse random data collected by an
data
appropriate means, eg use Simpson’s index
of diversity to calculate the biodiversity of a
habitat
MS 1.6 Understand the terms mean, Students may be tested on their ability to:
median and mode
• calculate or compare the mean, median and
mode of a set of data, eg height/mass/size
of a group of organisms
MS 1.7 Use a scatter diagram to identify a Students may be tested on their ability to:
correlation between two variables
• interpret a scattergram, eg the effect of
lifestyle factors on health
MS 1.8 Make order of magnitude Students may be tested on their ability to:
calculations
• use and manipulate the magnification
formula
size of image
magnification = size of real object
context of Biology
MS 1.9 Select and use a statistical test Students may be tested on their ability to select
and use:
• the chi-squared test to test the significance
of the difference between observed and
expected results
• the Student’s t-test
• the correlation coefficient
MS Understand measures of dispersion, Students may be tested on their ability to:

1.10 including standard deviation and
• calculate the standard deviation
range
• understand why standard deviation might be
a more useful measure of dispersion for a
given set of data, eg where there is an
outlying result
MS Identify uncertainties in Students may be tested on their ability to:

1.11 measurements and use simple
• calculate percentage error where there are
techniques to determine uncertainty
uncertainties in measurement
when data are combined
6.3 Algebra
context of Biology
MS 2.1 Understand and use the symbols: =, No exemplification required.

<, <<, >>, >, ∝, .
MS 2.2 Change the subject of an equation Students may be tested on their ability to:
• use and manipulate equations, eg
magnification
MS 2.3 Substitute numerical values into Students may be tested on their ability to:
algebraic equations using
• use a given equation, eg Simpson’s index of
appropriate units for physical 2
quantities diversity D = 1 − (∑ n / N
MS 2.4 Solve algebraic equations Students may be tested on their ability to:
• solve equations in a biological context, eg
cardiac output = stroke volume
× heart rate

context of Biology
MS 2.5 Use logarithms in relation to Students may be tested on their ability to:
quantities that range over several
• use a logarithmic scale in the context of
orders of magnitude
microbiology, eg growth rate of a
microorganism such as yeast
6.4 Graphs
context of Biology
MS 3.1 Translate information between Students may be tested on their ability to:
graphical, numerical and algebraic
• understand that data may be presented in a
forms
number of formats and be able to use these
data, eg dissociation curves
MS 3.2 Plot two variables from Students may be tested on their ability to:
experimental or other data
• select an appropriate format for presenting
data, bar charts, histograms, graphs and
scattergrams
MS 3.3 Understand that y = mx + c Students may be tested on their ability to:

represents a linear relationship • predict/sketch the shape of a graph with a
linear relationship, eg the effect of substrate
concentration on the rate of an enzyme-
controlled reaction with excess enzyme
MS 3.4 Determine the intercept of a Students may be tested on their ability to:
graph
• read off an intercept point from a graph,
eg compensation point in plants
MS 3.5 Calculate rate of change from a Students may be tested on their ability to:
graph showing a linear relationship
• calculate a rate from a graph, eg rate of
transpiration
MS 3.6 Draw and use the slope of a tangent Students may be tested on their ability to:
to a curve as a measure of rate of
• use this method to measure the gradient of a
change
point on a curve, eg amount of product
formed plotted against time when the
concentration of enzyme is fixed
6.5 Geometry and trigonometry
context of Biology
MS 4.1 Calculate the circumferences, Students may be tested on their ability to:
surface areas and volumes of
• calculate the circumference and area of a
regular shapes
circle
• calculate the surface area and volume of
rectangular prisms, of cylindrical prisms and
of spheres
• eg calculate the surface area or volume of a
cell
7 AS practical assessment
Practical work is at the heart of biology, so we have placed it at the heart of this specification.
Assessment of practical skills in this AS specification will be by written exams only.
The practical endorsement does not apply to the AS specification. A rich diet of practical work is
essential to develop students' manipulative skills and understanding of the processes of scientific
investigation. It also contributes to teaching and learning of the concepts within this specification.
Questions in the papers have been written in the expectation that students have carried out at least
the six required practical activities in section 7.2.
15% of the marks in the papers will relate to practical work.
7.1 Use of apparatus and techniques

All students taking this specification are expected to have carried out the required practical
activities in section 7.2. These develop skills in the use of many of the following apparatus and
techniques. This list is a compulsory element of the full A-level course. It is reproduced here for
reference and to aid co-teaching the AS and A-level specifications.
Apparatus and techniques
AT a use appropriate apparatus to record a range of quantitative measurements (to include

mass, time, volume, temperature, length and pH)
AT b use appropriate instrumentation to record quantitative measurements, such as a

colorimeter or potometer
AT c use laboratory glassware apparatus for a variety of experimental techniques to include

serial dilutions
AT d use of light microscope at high power and low power, including use of a graticule
AT e produce scientific drawing from observation with annotations
AT f use qualitative reagents to identify biological molecules
AT g separate biological compounds using thin layer/paper chromatography or electrophoresis
AT h safely and ethically use organisms to measure:

• plant or animal responses
• physiological functions
AT i use microbiological aseptic techniques, including the use of agar plates and broth
AT j safely use instruments for dissection of an animal organ, or plant organ
AT k use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT l use ICT such as computer modelling, or data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
7.2 Required practical activities

The following practicals must be carried out by all students taking this course. Written papers will
assess knowledge and understanding of these, and the skills exemplified within each practical.
Required activity Apparatus and technique

reference
1. Investigation into the effect of a named variable on the rate of an a, b, c, f, l

enzyme-controlled reaction
2. Preparation of stained squashes of cells from plant root tips; set- d, e, f

up and use of an optical microscope to identify the stages of
mitosis in these stained squashes and calculation of a mitotic index
3. Production of a dilution series of a solute to produce a calibration c, h, j, l

curve with which to identify the water potential of plant tissue
4. Investigation into the effect of a named variable on the a, b, c, j, l

permeability of cell-surface membranes
5. Dissection of animal or plant gas exchange system or mass e, h, j

transport system or of organ within such a system
6. Use of aseptic techniques to investigate the effect of c, i

antimicrobial substances on microbial growth
Teachers are encouraged to vary their approach to these practical activities. Some are more
suitable for highly structured approaches that develop key techniques. Others allow opportunities
for students to develop investigative approaches.
This list is not designed to limit the practical activities carried out by students. A rich practical
experience for students will include more than the six required practical activities. The explicit
teaching of practical skills will build students’ competence. Many teachers will also use practical
approaches to the introduction of content knowledge in the course of their normal teaching.
7.3 Practical skills to be assessed in written papers

Overall, at least 15% of the marks for an AS Biology qualification will require the assessment of
practical skills.
In order to be able to answer these questions, students need to have been taught, and to have
acquired competence in, the appropriate areas of practical skills as indicated in the table of
coverage below.
7.3.1 Independent thinking

Practical skill
PS 1.1 Solve problems set in practical contexts
PS 1.2 Apply scientific knowledge to practical contexts
7.3.2 Use and application of scientific methods and practices

Practical skill
PS 2.1 Comment on experimental design and evaluate scientific methods
PS 2.2 Present data in appropriate ways
PS 2.3 Evaluate results and draw conclusions with reference to measurement

uncertainties and errors
PS 2.4 Identify variables including those that must be controlled
7.3.3 Numeracy and the application of mathematical concepts in a

practical context
Practical skill
PS 3.1 Plot and interpret graphs
PS 3.2 Process and analyse data using appropriate mathematical skills as exemplified
in the mathematical appendix for each science
PS 3.3 Consider margins of error, accuracy and precision of data
7.3.4 Instruments and equipment

Practical skill
PS 4.1 Know and understand how to use a wide range of experimental and practical
instruments, equipment and techniques appropriate to the knowledge and
understanding included in the specification
8 A-level practical assessment

Practical work is at the heart of biology, so we have placed it at the heart of this specification.
Practical assessments have been divided into those that can be assessed in written exams and
those that can only be directly assessed whilst students are carrying out experiments.
A-level grades will be based only on marks from written exams.
A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A-level. This will be
assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range
of skills that are not assessable in written exams.
8.1 Use of apparatus and techniques

All students taking an A-level Biology qualification are expected to have had opportunities to use
the following apparatus and develop and demonstrate these techniques. These apparatus and
techniques are common to all A-level Biology specifications.
Carrying out the 12 required practicals in section 8.2 means that students will have experienced
use of each of these apparatus and techniques. However, teachers are encouraged to develop
students’ abilities by inclusion of other opportunities for skills development, as exemplified in the
right-hand column of the content section of this specification.
AT a use appropriate apparatus to record a range of quantitative measurements (to include

mass, time, volume, temperature, length and pH)
AT b use appropriate instrumentation to record quantitative measurements, such as a

colorimeter or potometer
AT c use laboratory glassware apparatus for a variety of experimental techniques to include

serial dilutions
AT d use of light microscope at high power and low power, including use of a graticule
AT e produce scientific drawing from observation with annotations
AT f use qualitative reagents to identify biological molecules
AT g separate biological compounds using thin layer/paper chromatography or electrophoresis
AT h safely and ethically use organisms to measure:

• plant or animal responses
• physiological functions
AT i use microbiological aseptic techniques, including the use of agar plates and broth
AT j safely use instruments for dissection of an animal organ, or plant organ
AT k use sampling techniques in fieldwork
AT l use ICT such as computer modelling, or data logger to collect data, or use software to
process data
8.2 Required practical activities

The following practicals must be carried out by all students taking this course. Written papers will
assess knowledge and understanding of these, and the skills exemplified within each practical.

reference
1. Investigation into the effect of a named variable on the rate of an a, b, c, f, l

enzyme-controlled reaction
2. Preparation of stained squashes of cells from plant root tips; set- d, e, f

up and use of an optical microscope to identify the stages of
mitosis in these stained squashes and calculation of a mitotic index
3. Production of a dilution series of a solute to produce a calibration c, h, j, l

curve with which to identify the water potential of plant tissue
4. Investigation into the effect of a named variable on the a, b, c, j, l

permeability of cell-surface membranes
5. Dissection of animal or plant gas exchange or mass transport e, h, j

system or of organ within such a system
6. Use of aseptic techniques to investigate the effect of c, i

antimicrobial substances on microbial growth
7. Use of chromatography to investigate the pigments isolated from b, c, g

leaves of different plants, eg leaves from shade-tolerant and
shade-intolerant plants or leaves of different colours
8. Investigation into the effect of a named factor on the rate of a, b, c

dehydrogenase activity in extracts of chloroplasts
9. Investigation into the effect of a named variable on the rate of a, b, c, i

respiration of cultures of single-celled organisms
10. Investigation into the effect of an environmental variable on the h

movement of an animal using either a choice chamber or a maze

reference
11. Production of a dilution series of a glucose solution and use of b, c, f

colorimetric techniques to produce a calibration curve with which to
identify the concentration of glucose in an unknown ‘urine’ sample
12. Investigation into the effect of a named environmental factor on a, b, h, k, l

the distribution of a given species
Teachers are encouraged to vary their approach to these practical activities. Some are more
suitable for highly structured approaches that develop key techniques. Others allow opportunities
for students to develop investigative approaches.
This list is not designed to limit the practical activities carried out by students. A rich practical
experience for students will include more than the 12 required practical activities. The explicit
teaching of practical skills will build students’ competence. Many teachers will also use practical
approaches to the introduction of content knowledge in the course of their normal teaching.
Students’ work in these activities can also contribute towards the endorsement of practical skills.
8.3 Practical skills to be assessed in written papers

Overall, at least 15% of the marks for an A-level Biology qualification will require the assessment of
practical skills.
In order to be able to answer these questions, students need to have been taught, and to have
acquired competence in, the appropriate areas of practical skills as indicated in the table of
coverage below.
8.3.1 Independent thinking

Practical skill
PS 1.1 Solve problems set in practical contexts
PS 1.2 Apply scientific knowledge to practical contexts
8.3.2 Use and application of scientific methods and practices

Practical skill
PS 2.1 Comment on experimental design and evaluate scientific methods
PS 2.2 Present data in appropriate ways
PS 2.3 Evaluate results and draw conclusions with reference to measurement

uncertainties and errors
PS 2.4 Identify variables including those that must be controlled
8.3.3 Numeracy and the application of mathematical concepts in a
practical context
Practical skill
PS 3.1 Plot and interpret graphs
PS 3.2 Process and analyse data using appropriate mathematical skills as exemplified
in the mathematical appendix for each science
PS 3.3 Consider margins of error, accuracy and precision of data
8.3.4 Instruments and equipment

Practical skill
PS 4.1 Know and understand how to use a wide range of experimental and practical
instruments, equipment and techniques appropriate to the knowledge and
understanding included in the specification
8.4 Practical skills to be assessed via endorsement

8.4.1 Cross-board statement on practical endorsement
The assessment of practical skills is a compulsory requirement of the course of study for A-level
qualifications in biology, chemistry and physics. It will appear on all students’ certificates as a
separately reported result, alongside the overall grade for the qualification. The arrangements for
the assessment of practical skills will be common to all awarding organisations. These
arrangements will include:
• A minimum of 12 practical activities to be carried out by each student which, together, meet
the requirements of Appendices 5b (Practical skills identified for direct assessment and
developed through teaching and learning) and 5c (Use of apparatus and techniques) from
the prescribed subject content, published by the Department for Education (DfE). The
required practical activities will be defined by each awarding organisation.
• Teachers will assess students against Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) issued
jointly by the awarding organisations. The CPAC (see below) are based on the requirements
of Appendices 5b and 5c of the subject content requirements published by the DfE, and
define the minimum standard required for the achievement of a pass.
• Each student will keep an appropriate record of their practical work, including their assessed
practical activities.
• Students who demonstrate the required standard across all the requirements of the CPAC
will receive a ‘pass’ grade.
• There will be no separate assessment of practical skills for AS qualifications.
• Students will answer questions in the AS and A-level exam papers that assess the
requirements of Appendix 5a (Practical skills identified for indirect assessment and
developed through teaching and learning) from the prescribed subject content, published by
the DfE. These questions may draw on, or range beyond, the practical activities included in
the specification.
8.4.2 Criteria for the assessment of practical competency in A-level

Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Competency Practical mastery
In order to be awarded a Pass a student must, by

the end of the practical science assessment,
consistently and routinely meet the criteria in
respect of each competency listed below. A
student may demonstrate the competencies in
any practical activity undertaken as part of that
assessment throughout the course of study.
Students may undertake practical activities in
groups. However, the evidence generated by
each student must demonstrate that he or she
independently meets the criteria outlined below in
respect of each competency. Such evidence
• (a) will comprise both the student's
performance during each practical activity
and his or her contemporaneous record of
the work that he or she has undertaken
during that activity, and
• (b) must include evidence of independent
application of investigative approaches and
methods to practical work.
1. Follows written procedures (a) Correctly follows written instructions to carry

out experimental techniques or procedures.
2. Applies investigative approaches and (a) Correctly uses appropriate instrumentation,

methods when using instruments and apparatus and materials (including ICT) to carry
equipment out investigative activities, experimental
techniques and procedures with minimal
assistance or prompting.
(b) Carries out techniques or procedures
methodically, in sequence and in combination,
identifying practical issues and making
adjustments where necessary.
(c) Identifies and controls significant quantitative
variables where applicable, and plans
approaches to take account of variables that
cannot readily be controlled.
(d) Selects appropriate equipment and
measurement strategies in order to ensure
suitably accurate results.
Competency Practical mastery
3. Safely uses a range of practical equipment (a) Identifies hazards and assesses risks
and materials associated with those hazards, making safety
adjustments as necessary, when carrying out
experimental techniques and procedures in the
lab or field.
(b) Uses appropriate safety equipment and
approaches to minimise risks with minimal
prompting.
4. Makes and records observations (a) Makes accurate observations relevant to the
experimental or investigative procedure.
(b) Obtains accurate, precise and sufficient data
for experimental and investigative procedures
and records this methodically using appropriate
units and conventions.
5. Researches, references and reports (a) Uses appropriate software and/or tools to
process data, carry out research and report
findings.
(b) Cites sources of information demonstrating
that research has taken place, supporting
planning and conclusions.
Get help and support
Visit our website for information, guidance, support and resources at
You can talk directly to the Biology subject team:
E: alevelscience@aqa.org.uk
T: 01483 477 756
aqa.org.uk
Copyright © 2021 AQA and its licensors. All rights reserved.
AQA retains the copyright on all its publications, including the specifications. However, schools and colleges registered with AQA are
permitted to copy material from this specification for their own internal use.
AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number 1073334) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales
(company number 3644723). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX.

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AS AND A-

6 Mathematical requirements and

8 A-level practical assessment 77

Are you using the latest version of this specification?

The way you teach – your choice

Practicals at the heart of science

Teach AS and A-level together

1.2 Support and resources to help you teach

Preparing for exams

Analyse your students' results with Enhanced Results Analysis (ERA)

Keep your skills up to date with professional development

Get help and support

2.1 Subject content

3.1 Biological molecules

Monosaccharides are the monomers from which larger AT f

• Glycogen and starch are formed by the condensation of α-

Triglycerides and phospholipids are two groups of lipid. AT f

Each enzyme lowers the activation energy of the reaction it MS 0.5

Content Opportunities for skills

Required practical 1: Investigation into the effect of a named PS 2.4

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) are MS 0.3

• The components of a DNA nucleotide are deoxyribose, a

3.1.5.2 DNA replication

The semi-conservative replication of DNA ensures genetic

A single molecule of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a nucleotide

Hydrolysis of ATP to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and an

Water is a major component of cells. It has several properties that

3.1.8 Inorganic ions

Inorganic ions occur in solution in the cytoplasm and body fluids of

3.2.1 Cell structure

3.2.1.1 Structure of eukaryotic cells

The structure of eukaryotic cells, restricted to the structure and

3.2.1.3 Methods of studying cells

The principles and limitations of optical microscopes, transmission AT d, e and f

3.2.2 All cells arise from other cells

Within multicellular organisms, not all cells retain the ability to

Required practical 2: Preparation of stained squashes of cells AT d and e

The basic structure of all cell membranes, including cell-surface

Required practical 3: Production of a dilution series of a solute to MS 3.2

3.2.4 Cell recognition and the immune system

Structure of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its

3.3 Organisms exchange substances with their

3.3.1 Surface area to volume ratio

The relationship between the size of an organism or structure and PS 1.1

Adaptations of gas exchange surfaces, shown by gas exchange: AT j

3.3.3 Digestion and absorption

During digestion, large biological molecules are hydrolysed to PS 1.1

3.3.4 Mass transport

The haemoglobins are a group of chemically similar molecules AT h

The structure of capillaries and the importance of capillary beds as

Required practical 5: Dissection of animal or plant gas exchange AT j

3.3.4.2 Mass transport in plants

3.4 Genetic information, variation and relationships

In prokaryotic cells, DNA molecules are short, circular and not

3.4.2 DNA and protein synthesis

The concept of the genome as the complete set of genes in a cell

Gene mutations involve a change in the base sequence of AT d

Mutations in the number of chromosomes can arise spontaneously MS 0.5