In my experience, the final paper of the A2 year of A level biology is the paper that students dread the most. Rather than being totally modular, as are the other written papers, this final paper has a large synoptic element and draws on knowledge gained from throughout the two year biology A level course. The expected answers are longer, and marking schedules more complicated. Often, "mini essays"are included and credit often given for information that is not necessarily covered in the actual syllabus.

 We are in the midst of the A level exams! So firstly may I say good luck to you all, and I hope that you get the grades that you want - or deserve!

I am often asked for "exam tips" and the best tip that I can give is the old one that students are sick to death of hearing, and that is "read the question properly and answer the question that you are being asked, and not the one that you want to answer". It still surprises me how many students don't answer the actual question.

GCSE biology exams start in May, with A level biology following in June. AS level is mid June, and A2 level towards the end. Revision should be well under way. I am often asked "what is the best way to revise?" and my answer is always "in the best way that suits you!".

 A decision in the Appeal Court last week following a long and frustrating slog by science writer Simon Singh has finally become a victory for common sense and science writers everywhere.

 As a private tutor, I have become used to juggling the demands of students studying with different exam boards. For the first time ever, all the major A level boards have come together simultaneously, and everyone wants to know about stem cells. Stem cells are a very powerful weapon in the arsenal against disease, so I thought that I would hunt around for a current news story that would appeal to students. With thanks to Science Daily and The Children's Hospital, Boston.

 In January 2010, ten of my students sat 17 exams in total. Of those 17 papers, there were five grade A and 6 grade B results. So very well done to all concerned. The results have exceeded my own expectations. Pressure is now on to maintain these standards into the June exams.

With A level results due out in just over a week, past experience would show that panic is about to set in.

 A venture in East London between Queen Mary's and Bart"s and the London University groups has given rise to an exhibition and interactive website. The literature for the exhibition (free, but must be booked in advance) has come my way, and I have spent an enjoyable hour or so playing on a website aimed at schoolchildren aged about 10 - 16. A level students should take a look too, although the detail required for AS/A2 may be sparse.

 As the AQA A2 biology paper was featured on the BBC news last week, I feel it almost compulsory for me to comment and put my view in print. I followed the news story and Facebook discussions and eventually was able to obtain a copy of the paper. So, the main criticism made was that the paper didn't examine the syllabus, and I'm afraid that I don't agree. This paper was (i) quite difficult and (ii) quite different but I do think that it followed the syllabus.

 By accident this week, I found a program on BBC4 called "Chemistry - A Volatile History". This was part 1 of a three part documentary series (I think the presenter said there were two more episodes) and focused on the dscovery of the elements. There were dramatic links featuring early experiments, as well as modern day technology. It is currently on the BBC website via i-player. Part 2 is next Thursday at 9pm and will focus on the periodic table. I found it fascinating stuff, and really not to be missed if you are taking A level chemistry or even just interested in science.