Introducing Edexcel A level biology
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The certification for Edexcel A level biology consists of three written examination papers plus the Science Practical Endorsement.
The three papers are worth a total of 300 marks:
- Paper 1: 100 marks
- Paper 2: 100 marks
- Paper 3: 100 marks.
Edexcel Paper 1: The Natural Environment and Species Survival
- Marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours
- Weighting: 33.33 of the total A level
- Content covered:
- Specification content from Topics 1–6
- Demonstration of relevant mathematical skills.
The paper is composed of a mixture of multiple–choice and free–response questions
Edexcel Paper 2: Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination
- Marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours
- Weighting: 33.33 of the total A level
- Content covered:
- Specification content from Topics 1–4 and 7–8
- Demonstration of relevant mathematical skills.
The paper is composed of a mixture of multiple–choice and free–response questions.
Edexcel Paper 3: General and Practical Applications in Biology
- Marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours
- Weighting: 33.33 of the total A level
- Content covered: All topics 1–8
- All specification content
- Demonstration of relevant mathematical skills.
The paper is composed of a mixture of multiple–choice and free–response questions.
The paper will include synoptic questions that may draw on two or more different topics.
A pre-released scientific article will underpin one section of the paper. This is available about 8 weeks before the exam. You’ll receive a clean copy of the article in the exam.
To gain practical endorsement with Edexcel, you must complete a minimum of 12 from a series of 18 core practicals.
You must demonstrate competence in:
- Following written procedures correctly.
- Applying investigative approaches with instruments and equipment.
- Using practical equipment and materials safely.
- Making and recording accurate observations.
- Researching, referencing, and reporting findings.
There is no grading in practical assessments — they are either passed or not classified.
Familiarity with the methods used in the required practicals is required within the written exam. It is worth reviewing the practicals you have completed and ensuring you understand the purpose of each step.
You may need to describe how to plan and complete a similar practical. You may also need to analyse or evaluate a practical described within a question.
Questions of this nature can be assessed across all three papers.