7402/2 — June 2017 AQA A Level Biology Mark Scheme

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AQA-74022-MS-JUN17.PDF

7402/2 — June 2017 AQA Biology 7402 Mark Scheme

This is the official AQA mark scheme for Biology (7402) Mark Scheme 2 from the June 2017 session. Mark schemes show exactly how each mark is awarded, including acceptable alternative answers, required key terms, and common errors that lose marks. AQA mark schemes use notation like "allow," "accept," and "do not credit" to define the boundary between full marks and zero.

Also referenced as: 7402/2 · 74022 · AQA-74022-MS-JUN17 · AQA 7402 June 2017

This mark scheme corresponds to AQA-74022-QP-JUN17. For maximum revision benefit, attempt the question paper under strict exam conditions first, then use this mark scheme to self-assess. Pay attention to the marking notation: "allow" means an alternative is accepted, "do not credit" means a specific phrasing is rejected even if technically correct, and "ORA" (or reverse argument) means the mark can also be earned with the opposite reasoning.

AQA mark schemes reward precise language. For Biology (7402), look for keywords the examiner requires — definitions must include specific terms (e.g., "per unit mass," "resultant"), and calculations must show working even if the final answer is correct. Understanding mark scheme conventions helps you write answers that hit every marking point, not just the general idea.

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Same paper, other years

AQA Biology Mark Scheme 2 from other exam series — practise the same paper across the years, then mark each one against its mark scheme.

MSJune 2024 MSJune 2023 MSJune 2022 MSJune 2021 MSNovember 2021 MSJune 2020 MSNovember 2020 MSJune 2019 MSJune 2018 MSJune 2016

Examiner Insights — AQA Biology (7402)

Based on analysis of 6 official AQA documents (2022–2023).

GCSE-level answers that lack A-level precision

“expressions such as ‘holding genetic material to control cell activities’ often seen; this is low-level GCSE standard and achieved no mark”— 7402/1, June 2022, Q01.1

How to fix: The AQA A-Level mark scheme requires biological processes to be named precisely. Replace 'the nucleus controls cell activities' with 'the nucleus contains DNA that codes for polypeptides/proteins'. Replace 'sugar is broken down in respiration' with 'glucose is oxidised in glycolysis and the Krebs cycle to produce ATP'. For any topic, identify the biological molecule, the precise process, and the specific product — never describe at a food-chain or GCSE summary level.

View full exam guide for Biology (7402) →