This update was originally published on 18 July 2023. For A Level Biology A H420 (first assessment in 2025), we have now published further guidance on the specification updates to support teachers. You can view the Guide to Specification Updates: A Level Biology A in the Teaching > Planning> Schemes of work section on Teach Cambridge.

Following feedback from teachers, we have amended our AS and A Level Biology A (H020/H420) specifications to improve accessibility and clarity. 

In section 2c of the specifications, we have made the following amendments:

• In the ‘Additional guidance’ column, we have clarified text and for some learning outcomes we’ve removed text where students needed to recall a particular process or treatment which is not fundamental knowledge in Biology.
• Under reference 2.1.2 (i) and  2.1.2 (q), we have removed the reference to a specific process and test which are not necessary for students to recall.
• Under reference 2.1.6 (k) and 2.1.6 (l), we’ve clarified the wording used in the ‘Learning outcomes’ column.
  

In multiple sections, we’ve also changed the font used for formulae to improve accessibility. 

We've not changed the principles of the learning outcomes for students or any of the assessment requirements in the AS and A Level Biology A specifications. 

You can view the amended specifications below:

• AS Level Biology A H020 – version 3 (for first teach September 2023, first assessment June 2024)
• A Level Biology A H420 – version 3 (for first teach September 2023, first assessment June 2025)

You can also view and download the amended specifications from the AS and A Level Biology A qualification page on our website and Teach Cambridge.

Please note: For existing A Level students sitting their exams in June 2024, please continue to use the current version of the A Level Biology A H420 specification (version 2.6, December 2020).

Make sure you are using the correct version of the specification with your students.

We would like to thank teachers for providing us with feedback and we hope the changes we’ve made to our specifications help to support the teaching of these Biology qualifications.

If you have any queries about this update, please call our Customer Support Centre on 01223 553998 or email science@ocr.org.uk. 

Qualification

• Biology A - H020, H420 (from 2015)