Introducing OCR A Level biology
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The certification for OCR A level biology (A) consists of three written examination papers plus an endorsement of practical competence.
The three papers are worth a total of 270 marks:
- Paper 1: 100 marks
- Paper 2: 100 marks
- Paper 3: 70 marks
OCR-A Paper 1: Biological processes
- Marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Weighting: 37 of the total A level
- Content covered: Modules 1, 2, 3, and 5.
Section A: Multiple–choice questions (15 marks).
Section B: Short and extended response questions (85 marks).
OCR-A Paper 2: Biological diversity
- Marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Weighting: 37 of the total A level
- Content covered: Modules 1, 2, 4, and 6.
Section A: Multiple–choice questions (15 marks).
Section B: Short and extended response questions (85 marks).
OCR-A Paper 3: Unified Biology
- Marks: 70 marks
- Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Weighting: 26 of total A level
- Content covered: All modules (1–6).
All questions are short answer or extended response questions; there is no multiple–choice section in this paper.
To gain practical endorsement with OCR you must complete a minimum of 12 practical activities covering all Practical Activity Groups (PAGs 1–12).
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.