Are There Essay Questions in A Level Biology?
Are There Essay Questions in A Level Biology?
Created:Updated: 14-September-2025
If you are preparing for AQA A Level Biology (7402), you might be wondering whether essay-style questions are part of the assessment.
Unlike many subjects that focus entirely on short-answer or data-response questions, Biology includes extended writing as part of its exams.
Understanding how essay questions fit into the assessment can help you plan your revision and build strong exam technique.
Where do essay questions appear in AQA A Level Biology?
Essay questions appear in Paper 3 of the AQA A Level Biology exam.
This paper includes a choice of two synoptic essay titles, from which you select one to answer in detail.
Each essay is worth 25 marks, which means it makes up a significant part of your final grade.
What is expected in the Biology essay question?
The essay tests your ability to connect ideas from across the entire specification, rather than recalling a single topic.
You are expected to show breadth of knowledge, accurate use of scientific terminology, and an ability to link different areas of biology together.
Essays reward structure, clarity, and balance, so planning your answer is essential.
How are essay questions marked?
Examiners use a levels-of-response mark scheme, which awards marks for breadth of content, scientific accuracy, organisation, and quality of written communication.
High-scoring essays typically cover a wide range of examples, integrate core biological principles, and present arguments clearly.
You can view official assessment guidance on the AQA Biology assessment page.
Tips for success in Biology essay questions
Practice writing essays under timed conditions to get comfortable with planning and structuring answers quickly.
Revise broadly across the specification so you can bring in examples from different areas, including genetics, ecology, physiology, and biochemistry.
Read examiner reports and sample essays to understand what separates a top-band response from an average one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all A Level Biology exam papers include essay questions?
No. Essay questions only appear in Paper 3 of AQA A Level Biology.
How much is the Biology essay question worth?
The essay is worth 25 marks, which is a substantial portion of Paper 3.
Do I have to answer both essay questions?
No. You choose one essay question out of two options and write your answer on that topic.
What makes a strong Biology essay?
Strong essays demonstrate breadth of knowledge, use accurate scientific terms, link different topics together, and are clearly structured.