Curious about what you’ll study in AQA A Level Biology (7402)? This guide breaks down all eight topics in the specification, explains how they are divided between the AS and full A Level content, and shows why each is important for your exams and future progression.

Overview: AS vs Full A Level

AQA Biology (7402) is a linear course, which means that all exams are taken at the end of your studies.

The subject content is organised into eight major topics.

In the first year, students cover Topics 1–4, which also form the basis of the standalone AS qualification.

The second year adds Topics 5–8, and together these create the full A Level.

All of the content can be assessed in the final examinations, with some papers drawing on material across multiple topics.

Topics 1–4: The Foundation of Biology

The first four topics provide the essential foundations for understanding the living world.

In Topic 1, you will explore the biological molecules that make life possible, such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and water.

Topic 2 examines cells, covering both prokaryotic and eukaryotic structures, how substances move across membranes, and the processes of cell division.

Topic 3 looks at how organisms exchange substances with their environment, from gas exchange in humans and plants to digestion, absorption, and transport systems.

Finally, Topic 4 focuses on genetic information, variation, and relationships, introducing DNA, protein synthesis, genetic diversity, and the principles of classification and biodiversity.

Topics 5–8: The Full A Level Content

The second year of study builds on this foundation with more advanced concepts.

Topic 5 explores energy transfers in and between organisms, including photosynthesis, respiration, energy flow in ecosystems, and nutrient cycles.

Topic 6 examines how organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, looking at the nervous system, hormones, and homeostatic control.

Topic 7 brings together genetics, populations, evolution, and ecosystems, introducing ideas such as inheritance patterns, speciation, ecological interactions, and population dynamics.

Finally, Topic 8 focuses on the control of gene expression, covering gene regulation, mutations, cancer biology, biotechnology, genomics, and epigenetics.

Mathematical and Practical Skills

Alongside the content topics, AQA Biology requires you to develop strong mathematical and practical skills.

Around 10% of the marks in your exams are based on mathematical techniques, such as analysing graphs, calculating rates, and using statistical tests.

Practical work is also central: you will carry out or study required experiments, and questions based on these practicals appear in the written papers.

Universities often look for the separate practical endorsement, which demonstrates that you can apply scientific methods in the laboratory as well as on paper.

Why These Topics Matter

Each topic has been carefully chosen to give you a broad and balanced understanding of biology.

Whether you are interested in health, environmental science, genetics, or biotechnology, the content develops the knowledge and skills you will need for further study and employment.

Many of the exam questions are synoptic, meaning they combine ideas from different topics, so developing a deep and connected understanding is essential.

Success in AQA Biology not only prepares you for university but also demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills valued by employers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many topics are there in AQA A Level Biology (7402)?

There are eight main topics in total.

The first four are studied in Year 1 and make up the AS Level, while the second four are added in Year 2 to create the full A Level.

Do I need to complete the practical endorsement?

The practical endorsement is separate from your A Level grade, but many universities require it for science-related degrees.

Even if you do not take the endorsement, you will still be assessed on practical skills in the written exams.

Is there an essay question in the AQA Biology exam?

Yes.

Paper 3 includes a 25-mark synoptic essay that tests your ability to draw on knowledge from across the entire specification and write in a clear, structured way.

How much maths is included in A Level Biology?

Mathematics accounts for at least 10% of the marks in your exams.

You will use statistical tests, analyse graphs, and carry out calculations such as rates and ratios, so it is important to be comfortable with GCSE-level maths.

What kinds of questions appear in the exam?

You will face a mixture of multiple-choice, structured questions, data analysis, and extended written responses.

Paper 3 also includes synoptic questions and the long essay.

How are AQA Biology exams marked?

The marking is divided into three main assessment objectives.

AO1 tests knowledge and understanding, AO2 tests application of that knowledge, and AO3 focuses on analysis, evaluation, and practical skills.

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