Cambridge IAL Biology study guide
Cambridge IAL Biology · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
Cambridge International AS & A Level Biology (9700) is a Cambridge Advanced qualification built on the skills learners acquire at Cambridge IGCSE or an equivalent level. The syllabus combines the main theoretical concepts fundamental to biology, some current applications of biology, and a strong emphasis on advanced practical skills, with practical skills assessed in a timetabled practical examination. The emphasis throughout is on understanding concepts and applying biology ideas in novel contexts, as well as acquiring knowledge; the course encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills transferable to any future career path. It suits learners who intend to study biology or a wide variety of related subjects at university, or to follow a career in science. The Cambridge IAL Biology study guide has 2 sections and about 873 words.
01AS Level content: main theoretical concepts, current applications of biology, advanced practical skills
This domain covers the AS half of Cambridge International AS & A Level Biology (9700): cell structure and biological molecules, enzymes, membranes and transport, cell division, nucleic acids and protein synthesis, transport and gas exchange in plants and animals, infectious disease and immunity, plus the practical skills assessed through microscopy, measurement and controlled investigations. Biological molecules are built by condensation and broken by hydrolysis; the Benedict's, biuret, iodine and emulsion tests identify reducing sugar, protein, starch and lipid respectively, and Benedict's is semi-quantitative because colour intensity depends on concentration.
441 words, about 2 min02A Level content: main theoretical concepts, current applications of biology, advanced practical skills
This domain covers the A Level half of Cambridge International AS & A Level Biology (9700): energy and respiration, photosynthesis, homeostasis, nervous and hormonal coordination, inherited change, selection and evolution, biodiversity and conservation, genetic technology and biotechnology, and the advanced practical skills examined through ecological sampling, statistical tests, aseptic technique, chromatography and electrophoresis. Respiration and photosynthesis must be linked to electron transport, chemiosmosis and ATP synthesis, not treated as summarised word equations.
432 words, about 2 min