Oxford AQA International A Level (IAL) Biology specification (9610)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Oxford AQA International A Level (IAL) 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 Oxford AQA International A Level (IAL) 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 Oxford AQA International A Level (IAL) Biology (9610) 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 Oxford AQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
Pearson Edexcel International A Level Biology enables learners to develop essential knowledge and understanding of biological concepts, principles and applications. The qualification supports skills in experimental design, scientific method and analysis of data, while encouraging independent thinking and problem-solving. The modular structure allows flexible progression, and the course prepares learners for higher education in biology and related fields. It builds a strong foundation in molecular biology, physiology, ecology, and genetics, with practical skills embedded throughout.
Subject content breakdown
Unit 1: Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health
- Biological molecules: water, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins
- Diet and health: balanced diet, cardiovascular disease
- Transport systems: human circulatory system, plant transport (xylem, phloem)
- Blood vessels, heart structure and function
Unit 2: Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation
- Cell structure: prokaryotic and eukaryotic, organelles, microscopy
- Cell division and differentiation
- Stem cells and their uses in medicine
- DNA structure, replication, protein synthesis
- Natural selection, biodiversity, classification and conservation
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Biology I
- Experimental design, planning and analysis
- Collection and interpretation of data
- Core practical techniques and associated biological knowledge
Unit 4: Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity
- Photosynthesis and respiration: stages, equations, adaptations
- Energy flow and nutrient cycles: carbon, nitrogen
- Ecology: population size, succession, conservation
- Microbiology techniques, aseptic technique, antibiotic resistance
- Immune system: structure, response, vaccination, immunity types
Unit 5: Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology
- Excretion, osmoregulation, thermoregulation
- Nervous system: neurones, synapses, reflexes
- Hormonal coordination: endocrine glands, feedback mechanisms
- Gene technology: DNA profiling, genetic modification, cloning, ethical issues
Unit 6: Practical Skills in Biology II
- Advanced practical design and techniques
- Data analysis, evaluation and scientific communication
- Link between theory and experimental results
Assessment structure
Unit 1 – Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health
- Written examination, 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Structured questions and data response
Unit 2 – Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation
- Written examination, 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Structured questions and short-answer responses
Unit 3 – Practical Skills in Biology I
- Written examination, 1 hour 20 minutes, 50 marks
- Practical-based questions assessing investigative skills
Unit 4 – Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity
- Written examination, 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks
- Structured and synoptic questions
Unit 5 – Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology
- Written examination, 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks
- Extended and synoptic responses
Unit 6 – Practical Skills in Biology II
- Written examination, 1 hour 20 minutes, 50 marks
Based on practical skills, data handling and evaluation
- AS Level: Units 1, 2, and 3
- A Level: All six units
- All units externally assessed
- Grade scale: A*–E (A Level); A–E (AS Level)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Oxford AQA International A Level (IAL) 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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