In any A-level biology exam, you will be required to answer structured questions; however, there are some key between each exam board. Some require you to answer multiple-choice questions, while others require an essay. The AQA exam board requires you to write an essay as part of the third exam paper. The essay is worth 25 marks, and it can feel daunting and intimidating for many people, especially those studying all science-related A-levels.
So how do you get top marks in your AQA a-level biology essay? The key to success in the biology essay, as with all A-level biology questions, is mastering the exam technique. Many students can memorize the full and detailed biology facts of the entire specification; however, this alone is insufficient. The essay is synoptic and requires the integration of topics and their interconnections. While knowledge of the content is crucial, understanding the links between topics is paramount.
How to to approach the AQA biology essay question to get top marks.
TWO OPTIONS
You will provided with two essay options. Read both options carefully, make a decision, and commit to it. (Refer to my essay exam technique blog for guidance on how to decide which one to select)
PLAN
Once you have chosen a topic, create a plan to help structure your essay. You will not be marked your plan; it is merely a tool to assist you. First, list any topics that directly relate to the essay's title. For instance, if the essay is "The Importance of Proteins in Living Organisms," list any topics that involve proteins, including (for example) the names of specific enzymes.
USE YOUR PLAN
Based on the topics outlined in your plan, you must now determine:
a) What topics to include.
You must write a minimum of four topics, but I would recommend you aim for five. Your best four will determine if you reach the highest marking band, so if all four are filled with detailed a-level content a fifth may be unnecessary. However, if the examiner recognises one as not meeting the standard of the top marking band, it is always useful to have another one as a back up.
b) What order you are going to write them in and how you will link one topic to the next so you get a holistic approach to your essay.
The examiner must be confident that you understand all the entire content and its interconnections, rather than merely having memorised numerous facts.
c) How you will link each paragraph directly to the title of the essay.
Writing detailed biology facts is the main bulk of your essay. Without this content achieving a higher marking band unattainable. However, to remain in that band, each section needs to be directly linked to the title of the essay; and you need to prove you know how in your explanations.
WRITE YOUR ESSAY
Avoid lengthy introductions, and dive straight in with your first topic. Include lots of detailed content, including the key terminology and facts you have learned and explain how each part directly relates to the essay title.
EXTRA MATERIAL
If you have learnt any additional facts not covered in the A-level content, be sure to include them as well. For the final two marks, you need to incorporate 'spec-plus' content. However, without a fully structured and holistic approach to the essay, any extra facts will not elevate you to the top marking band and therefore will not assist you in achieving higher marks.
Refer to my other blog posts for additional insights on mastering the exam techniques required for each section and Frequently Asked Questions about writing the essay.
Claire
Teacher & Examiner