A Guide to Understanding the A-Level

An A Level is comprised of two parts – AS and A2. AS + A2 = A Level. Students usually take the AS exams at the end of Grade 11 and continue to take the A2 exams at the end of Grade 12, though sometimes, a student may take their AS and A2 exams in the same session.

Overview of A-Level Program

The A-Level program is a qualification typically taken by students in the United Kingdom and some other countries. It is an advanced level program that typically takes two years to complete and is usually offered in a wide range of subjects. The A-Level program is designed to prepare students for university-level study and is highly regarded by universities in the UK and other countries. The program involves taking exams at the end of each academic year, and the results of these exams determine a student’s final grade. Students typically choose three or four subjects to study, although this can vary depending on the school or college.

A-Level Subject Choices

The A-Level program offers students a wide range of subject choices, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Students typically choose three or four subjects to study, although this can vary depending on the school or college.

In the United Kingdom, A-Level subjects are divided into two categories: facilitating subjects and non-facilitating subjects. Facilitating subjects are those that are highly valued by universities and are often required or preferred for entry into certain degree programs. These include subjects such as mathematics, English literature, physics, biology, chemistry, geography, history, and modern languages. Non-facilitating subjects include subjects such as art and design, drama and theatre studies, media studies, and music.

Some common A-Level subject choices include:

  • Mathematics: This subject is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as mathematics, engineering, physics, and economics. A-Level mathematics covers topics such as calculus, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
  • English Literature: This subject focuses on the analysis and interpretation of literary texts, including novels, poetry, and drama. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as English literature, history, and law.
  • Biology: This subject covers the study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and the environment. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as biology, medicine, and veterinary science.
  • Chemistry: This subject covers the study of the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as chemistry, medicine, and engineering.
  • Physics: This subject covers the study of matter and energy and their interactions. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science.
  • History: This subject covers the study of past events and their significance. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as history, law, and politics.
  • Geography: This subject covers the study of the Earth’s physical and human environments and their interactions. It is highly valued by universities and is often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as geography, environmental science, and urban planning.
  • Modern Languages: A-Level modern languages cover the study of a foreign language, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. They are highly valued by universities and are often required or preferred for entry into degree programs in fields such as modern languages, translation, and international business.

A-Level Exam Format

The A-Level exams are typically taken at the end of a two-year program of study, and the format of the exams can vary depending on the subject. In general, A-Level exams are designed to test a student’s knowledge, understanding, and application of the subject matter. Here is a summary of the A-Level exam format:

  • A-Level exams are taken at the end of a two-year program of study.
  • Exams are typically written papers taken over several weeks in May and June.
  • The exam format can vary depending on the subject and the exam board.
  • Exams may include multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and essay questions.
  • The duration of exams can range from 1.5 to 3 hours per paper.
  • Some exams may include practical assessments or coursework completed throughout the course of study.
  • A-Level exams are graded on a scale of A* to E, with A* being the highest grade and E being the lowest passing grade.
  • Students are required to achieve a minimum of three passing grades to receive an A-Level qualification.
  • Internal assessments such as mock exams, essays, and practical projects may also be part of the A-Level program.
  • The exam format is designed to assess a student’s ability to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios, preparing them for university-level study and beyond.

A-Level Results and Grading

Here is a summary of A-Level results and grading:

GradingDescriptionMinimum Requirement
A*ExcellentN/A
AVery goodN/A
BGoodN/A
CSatisfactoryThree passing grades
DPoorThree passing grades
EVery poorThree passing grades

Note that the minimum requirement for an A-Level qualification is to achieve a minimum of three passing grades in the chosen subjects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, A-Levels are an important academic qualification in the United Kingdom and are recognized worldwide. The program is designed to provide students with a rigorous academic foundation and prepare them for university-level study and beyond. Students can choose from a wide range of subjects, and the exams are designed to test their knowledge, understanding, and application of the subject matter.

References:

https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/recognition-and-acceptance/country/usa/

https://www.crimsoneducation.org/us/blog/admissions-news/a-levels-grades/

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