SQA Advanced Higher Biology specification (X807 77)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Biology exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Biology specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Biology (X807 77) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Advanced Higher Biology course is designed to provide a deeper and more rigorous understanding of biology through both theoretical study and practical investigation. It builds on prior learning, particularly from Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology, and is aimed at learners preparing for further academic study or careers in biological sciences and related fields. The course enables candidates to integrate knowledge across molecular biology, whole-organism biology, and evolution, while honing investigative and analytical skills.
Key aims include:
- Developing a critical understanding of the role and impact of biology in scientific and societal contexts.
- Applying complex practical skills, including experiment design and risk assessment.
- Strengthening problem-solving and analytical thinking within biological contexts.
- Enhancing scientific literacy through evaluating research and communicating biological understanding clearly.
- Supporting independent work through investigative research and project-based assessment.
Subject content breakdown
Cells and Proteins
- Laboratory techniques, including chromatography, centrifugation, electrophoresis, and use of buffers.
- Protein structure, synthesis, and intracellular transport.
- Membrane proteins and molecular transport mechanisms.
- Cellular communication via signalling pathways, including hydrophobic and hydrophilic signalling.
- Control of cell division, cytoskeletal function, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis.
Organisms and Evolution
- Field sampling methods, taxonomy, and use of indicator species.
- Evolutionary processes including natural and sexual selection, genetic drift, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
- Reproductive strategies, meiosis, sex determination.
- Behavioural ecology, including parental investment and mating systems.
- Parasitism, host-parasite interactions, immune evasion, and population control measures.
Investigative Biology
- Application of scientific methods and ethics in biological investigations.
- Designing and conducting valid, reliable, and ethical experiments.
- Data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation.
- Reporting findings, critical evaluation of research, and effective communication of biological ideas.
Assessment structure
Question Paper
- 100 marks (scaled to 75% of total award).
- Section 1: 20 multiple-choice questions.
- Section 2: 80 marks from structured and extended-response questions.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Assesses broad knowledge, problem-solving, experimental design, data handling, and critical thinking.
Project
- 30 marks (scaled to 25% of total award).
- Candidates undertake an individual investigation, planning and conducting experiments or research.
- Report includes sections such as abstract, introduction, procedures, results, and evaluation.
- Emphasis on experimental design, data analysis, and communication of findings.
- Report length: 3000–3600 words (excluding appendices, references, etc.).
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Biology isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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