In the recent A2 biology examination, students were asked to recall an equation. The equation was not detailed in the specification, although reference was made to the principle. I contacted exam board AQA and received the response that “the specification does not identify every last detail but expects teachers to be able to interpret what is expected. This topic is also covered on page 8 of the endorsed textbook”.

Does this mean that I now have to second-guess the facts that students are expected to recall? Or should I be forcing my pupils to memorise the endorsed textbooks to ensure they are properly prepared for the examinations?

Paul Batterbury, Biology, Peterborough High School.