Biology

Assessment

There are three exams at the end of the two years for A Level, all of which are two hours long. At least 15% of the marks for A Level Biology are based on what is learned in practicals. Exam questions include a mixture of short and longer answer questions, extended response questions and a comprehension question in Paper 2. In addition, Paper 3 contains structured questions, including practical techniques, critical analysis of given experimental data and one essay from a choice of two titles. Coursework no longer exists and has been replaced with a Practical Endorsement for Biology. Teaching of practical skills is an integral part of the course and throughout the two-year course, Sixth Formers’ practical competence (use of apparatus and techniques) will be recorded and assessed internally, by staff at Kent College.