OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway) specification (J247)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway) 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 OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway) 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 OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway) (J247) 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 OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
The GCSE Biology A (Gateway) specification supports learners in developing a deep understanding of biological concepts through context-led and inquiry-based learning. The course encourages students to explore real-life applications of biology while building scientific thinking, data analysis, and practical skills. With an emphasis on explaining observations, analysing evidence and drawing conclusions, it prepares students for further science education and careers in health, environmental and life sciences.Subject content breakdown
B1: Cell level systems
- Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
- Microscopy and enzyme action.
- Transport mechanisms and respiration.
- DNA and protein synthesis.
B2: Scaling up
- Cell division and stem cells.
- Tissues, organs and organ systems.
- The circulatory and respiratory systems.
- Transport in plants.
B3: Organism level systems
- Nervous and endocrine systems.
- Hormonal regulation and contraception.
- Homeostasis of temperature, water, and glucose.
- Plant hormones and responses.
B4: Community level systems
- Ecosystems and biotic/abiotic factors.
- Nutrient cycles and human impact.
- Feeding relationships and energy transfer.
B5: Genes, inheritance and selection
- Inheritance of traits and genetic crosses.
- DNA structure, mutations and genetic engineering.
- Selective breeding and evolution.
B6: Global challenges
- Health, disease and immunity.
- Antibiotic resistance and pathogens.
- Food security and plant diseases.
- Maintaining biodiversity and sustainability.
B7: Practical skills
- Includes analysis, planning, and evaluation.
- 8 required practicals support development of investigative methods.
Assessment structure
Biology A (Gateway) – Separate Science
Paper 1: B1–B3
- Topics: Cell level systems, Scaling up, Organism level systems.
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes.
- 90 marks; 50% of GCSE.
- Question types: multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response.
Paper 2: B4–B6
- Topics: Community level systems, Genes/inheritance/selection, Global challenges.
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes.
- 90 marks; 50% of GCSE.
Question types: multiple choice, structured, short answer, and extended response.
- Practical skills and maths are assessed across both papers.
- Required practicals are integrated into theory and assessed in the written exams.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR GCSE Biology A (Gateway) 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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