How to achieve an A * in biology
Achieving an A* in A-level Biology requires you knowing all the specification content, using effective study strategies to ensure you are exam-ready in good time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you succeed:
1. Understand the Exam Specification
Knowing what you need to know is key to success. Obtain the specification for your exam board and become familiar with it as early as you can in your A level course.
Pay close attention to command words like "describe," "explain," and "evaluate” and know what is required in answers to these types of questions.
Look at the maths requirements and make sure your maths is up to scratch.
2. Master the Content
Invest in textbooks recommended by your exam board. Use concise guides like CGP for quick revision.
We all learn in different ways. Use online resources like Khan Academy, YouTube channels (like "Amoeba Sisters") and revision websites (like "S-cool" or "Physics and Maths Tutor"). I highly recommend the “SnapRevise” series for A level biology.
Write concise, well-organized notes using bullet points, diagrams, and flowcharts.
Remember you need to understand, so don’t just memorize. Many of the A level questions require application of knowledge, not just recall.
3. Practice Exam Techniques
Download and complete ALL the past papers for your exam board. This is so important!
Mark schemes are pure gold! Look carefully and make sure you know not just why you were wrong but also why you were correct.
Simulate exam conditions by doing timed papers to build confidence and manage time effectively during the real exam.
If maths, stats, genetic crossed or Hardy-Weinberg aren’t your thing, leave these questions to the end or you can waste precious time.
Look at the mark allocation carefully. Don’t stay on a question too long. You can always go back to it at the end.
4. Create a Study Plan to get yourself Exam Ready
Plan your revision by creating a revision timetable that covers all topics well before the exam. Avoid leaving everything until the last minute Allocate time for each topic and ensure all are covered before the exam.
Make a table with each topic to be learned in the first column and with other columns for: Revised; Past paper questions done and a final column where you could use traffic light colouring scheme: red-I need to work on this; orange-I’m almost there; green-I’m exam ready!
Explain difficult concepts to your mates. The best way to learn is to try and explain.
5. Focus on Practical Work
Biology is a practical subject. Pay attention to the required practicals and know the methodologies, results, and conclusions.
Make sure you know the key terms such as variables, controls, and why and how statistical tests are used in biology.
6. Take Care of You!
Don’t spend hours and hours revising a topic you find difficult. Ask your teacher, ChatGPT, your tutor or your mates to explain, or find an on-demand tutor who can give you a one-off focused tutorial to allow you to tick off that horrible topic!
If revision isn’t working, stop. You’ll learn twice as much tomorrow when you’re in a more focused mood.
Remember to rest and exercise. Ensure adequate sleep, especially before exams.
And finally, consider finding yourself an experienced biology tutor who can not only help you understand key concepts but also help with exam technique and build your confidence. Stay disciplined, practice often, and focus on understanding the material and exam strategies. With hard work and the right approach, you can achieve that A*!
Contact Jude to help you gain that A* in biology.
