Igcse Biology 2008 0610 - Y08 - Sy

BIOLOGY 0610
IGCSE
FOR EXAMINATION IN 2008
Exclusions
This syllabus must not be offered in the same session with any of the following syllabuses:
0653 Combined Science

0654 Co-ordinated Sciences (Double)
5090 Biology
5096 Human and Social Biology
5125 Science (Physics, Biology)
5126 Science (Chemistry, Biology)
5129 Combined Science
5130 Additional Combined Science
You can find syllabuses and information about CIE teacher training events on the CIE
Website (www.cie.org.uk).
Biology
Syllabus code: 0610
CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 1
AIMS 1
ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES 3
ASSESSMENT 5
CURRICULUM CONTENT 7
LABORATORY EQUIPMENT 15
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA FOR PRACTICALS 17
GRADE DESCRIPTIONS 23
MATHEMATICAL REQUIREMENTS 24
TERMINOLOGY, UNITS, SYMBOLS AND

PRESENTATION OF DATA FOR BIOLOGY 25
GLOSSARY OF TERMS 29
RESOURCE LIST 31
COURSEWORK FORMS 33
NOTES
Attention is drawn to alterations in the syllabus by black vertical lines on either side of the text.
Conventions (e.g. signs, symbols, terminology and nomenclature)
Syllabuses and question papers will conform with generally accepted international practice, in particular,
attention is drawn to the following documents, published in the UK, that will be used as guidelines:
(a) Reports produced by the Association for Science Education (ASE):
Sl Units, Signs, Symbols and Abbreviations (1981),
Chemical Nomenclature, Symbols and Terminology for use in School Science (1985),
Signs, Symbols and Systematics: The ASE Companion to 5-16 Science (1995).
(b) Report produced by the Institute of Biology (in association with the ASE):
Biological Nomenclature, Standard terms and expressions used in the teaching of biology (2000).
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It is intended that, in order to avoid difficulties arising out of the use of I as the symbol for litre, usage of dm
in place of I or litre will be made.
0610 BIOLOGY IGCSE 2008
INTRODUCTION
International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) syllabuses are designed as two-
year courses for examination at age 16-plus.
All IGCSE syllabuses follow a general pattern. The main sections are:
Aims
Assessment Objectives
Assessment
Curriculum Content.
The IGCSE subjects have been categorised into groups, subjects within each group having similar
Aims and Assessment Objectives.
Biology falls into Group III, Science, of the International Certificate of Education (ICE) subjects
together with Agriculture, Chemistry, Combined Science, Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award),
Natural Economy, Physical Sciences and Physics.
AIMS
The aims of the syllabus are the same for all students. These are set out below and describe the
educational purposes of a course in Biology for the IGCSE examination. They are not listed in
order of priority.
The aims are to:
1. provide, through well designed studies of experimental and practical science, a worthwhile
educational experience for all students, whether or not they go on to study science beyond this
level and, in particular, to enable them to acquire sufficient understanding and knowledge to
1.1 become confident citizens in a technological world, to take or develop an informed interest
in matters of scientific import;
1.2 recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific method and to appreciate its
applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life;
1.3 be suitably prepared for studies beyond the IGCSE level in pure sciences, in applied
sciences or in science-dependent vocational courses.
2. develop abilities and skills that

2.1 are relevant to the study and practice of Biology;
2.2 are useful in everyday life;
2.3 encourage efficient and safe practice;
2.4 encourage effective communication.
3. develop attitudes relevant to Biology such as

3.1 concern for accuracy and precision;
3.2 objectivity;
3.3 integrity;
3.4 enquiry;
3.5 initiative;
3.6 inventiveness.
4. stimulate interest in, and care for, the environment.
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5. promote an awareness that

5.1 scientific theories and methods have developed, and continue to do so, as a result of the
co-operative activities of groups and individuals;
5.2 the study and practice of science is subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and
cultural influences and limitations;
5.3 the applications of science may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual, the
community and the environment;
5.4 science transcends national boundaries and that the language of science, correctly and
rigorously applied, is universal.
IGCSE Biology places considerable emphasis on understanding and use of scientific ideas and
principles in a variety of situations, including those which are well-known to the learner and those
which are new to them. It is anticipated that programmes of study based on this syllabus will
feature a variety of learning experiences designed to enhance the development of skill and
comprehension. This approach will focus teachers and learners on development of transferable
life-long skills relevant to the increasingly technological environment in which people find
themselves. It will also prepare candidates for an assessment that will, within familiar and
unfamiliar contexts, test expertise, understanding and insight.
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ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
The three assessment objectives in Biology are:
A Knowledge with understanding
B Handling information and solving problems
C Experimental skills and investigations
A description of each Assessment Objective follows.
A KNOWLEDGE WITH UNDERSTANDING

Students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relation to:
1. scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts, theories;
2. scientific vocabulary, terminology, conventions (including symbols, quantities and units);
3. scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of
safety;
4. scientific quantities and their determination;
5. scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental
implications.
The subject content defines the factual material that candidates may need to recall and explain.
Questions testing these objectives will often begin with one of the following words: define, state,
describe, explain (using your knowledge and understanding) or outline. (See the glossary of
terms at the back of this syllabus.)
B HANDLING INFORMATION AND SOLVING PROBLEMS

Students should be able, using oral, written, symbolic, graphical and numerical forms of
presentation, to:
1. locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources;
2. translate information from one form to another;
3. manipulate numerical and other data;
4. use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences;
5. present reasoned explanations of phenomena, patterns and relationships;
6. make predictions and propose hypotheses;
7. solve problems, including some of a quantitative nature.
These assessment objectives cannot be precisely specified in the subject content because
questions testing such skills may be based on information that is unfamiliar to the candidate. In
answering such questions, candidates are required to use principles and concepts that are
within the syllabus and apply them in a logical, reasoned or deductive manner to a novel
situation. Questions testing these objectives will often begin with one of the following words:
discuss, predict, suggest, calculate, explain (give reasoned explanations and explain the
processes of using information and solving problems) or determine. (See the glossary of terms
at the back of this syllabus.)
C EXPERIMENTAL SKILLS AND INVESTIGATIONS

Students should be able to:
1. use techniques, apparatus, and materials (including the following of a sequence of
instructions, where appropriate);
2. make and record observations and measurements;
3. interpret and evaluate experimental observations and data;
4. plan and carry out investigations, evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements
(including the selection of techniques, apparatus and materials).
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SPECIFICATION GRID
The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives in the assessment
model are summarised in the table below.
Assessment Objective Weighting
A Knowledge with understanding 50% (not more than 25% recall)
B Handling information and solving problems 30%
C Experimental skills and investigations 20%
Teachers should take note that there is an equal weighting of 50% for skills (including handling
information, solving problems, practical, experimental and investigative skills) and for knowledge
and understanding. Teacher’s schemes of work, and the sequence of learning activities should
reflect this balance, so that the aims of the syllabus may be met, and the candidates prepared for
the assessment.
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ASSESSMENT
All candidates must enter for three Papers. These will be Paper 1, one from either Paper 2 or
Paper 3, and one from Papers 4, 5 or 6.
Candidates who have only studied the Core curriculum or who are expected to achieve a grade D
or below should normally be entered for Paper 2. Candidates who have studied the Extended
curriculum and who are expected to achieve a grade C or above should be entered for Paper 3.
All candidates must take a practical paper, chosen from Paper 4 (School-based Assessment of
Practical Skills), or Paper 5 (Practical Test), or Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical).
Core curriculum Extended curriculum

Grades C to G available Grades A* to G available
Paper 1 (45 minutes)
Compulsory A multiple-choice paper consisting of forty items of the four-choice type.
The questions will be based on the Core curriculum, will be of a difficulty appropriate to grades C to
G, and will test skills mainly in Assessment Objectives A and B.
This paper will be weighted at 30% of the final total available marks.
Either: Or:
Paper 2 (1 hour 15 minutes) Paper 3 (1 hour 15 minutes)
Core theory paper consisting of 80 marks of Extended theory paper consisting of 80 marks of
short-answer and structured questions. short-answer and structured questions.
The questions will be of a difficulty The questions will be of a difficulty appropriate
appropriate to grades C to G and will test to the higher grades and will test skills mainly in
skills mainly in Assessment Objectives A and Assessment Objectives A and B.
B.
A quarter of the marks available will be based
The questions will be based on the Core on Core material and the remainder on the
curriculum. Supplement.
This Paper will be weighted at 50% of the This Paper will be weighted at 50% of the final
final total available marks. total available marks.
Practical Assessment
Compulsory The purpose of this component is to test appropriate skills in assessment Objective C.
Candidates will not be required to use knowledge outside the Core curriculum.
Candidates must be entered for one of the following:
Either: Paper 4 Coursework (school-based assessment of practical skills)*
Or: Paper 5 Practical Test (1 hour 15 minutes), with questions covering experimental and
observational skills.
Or: Paper 6 Alternative to Practical Paper (1 hour). This is a written paper designed to test
familiarity with laboratory based procedures.
The practical assessment will be weighted at 20% of the final total available marks.
*Teachers may not undertake school-based assessment without the written approval of CIE. This
will only be given to teachers who satisfy CIE requirements concerning moderation and they will
have to undergo special training in assessment before entering candidates. CIE offers schools in-
service training in the form of occasional face-to-face courses held in countries where there is a
need, and also through the IGCSE Coursework Training Handbook, available from CIE
Publications.
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Detailed notes on coursework regulations appear in the Assessment Criteria for Practicals section
in this syllabus and in the Distance Training Pack.
Weighting of papers
Core curriculum Extended curriculum
Paper 1 30%
Paper 2 50% Paper 3 50%
Practical assessment
Paper 4 or Paper 5 or Paper 6 20%
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CURRICULUM CONTENT
NOTE:
1. The curriculum content outlined below is designed to provide guidance to teachers as to what
will be assessed in the overall evaluation of the student. Throughout the course, attention
should be drawn to the relevance of the concepts to the student’s everyday life and to the
natural and man-made world. The specified content of the syllabus has been limited in order
to encourage this approach and to permit flexibility in teaching programmes. On the CIE
Teacher Support website, there is a scheme of work that is available for teachers who do not
wish to devise their own.
Contact [email protected] for details of how to access the CIE Teacher Support
website.
2. The content is set out in three columns. The main topic areas and concepts are indicated in
the left-hand column. The centre column provides amplification of the core topics, which all
students are to study. Topics in the right-hand column are supplementary and should be
studied by students following the extended curriculum.
3. Students will be expected to give biologically correct definitions of any of the terms printed in
italic.
TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT
All students should be able to: In addition to what is required in the Core,
students taking the Extended paper should be
able to:
SECTION I – CHARACTERISTICS AND CLASSIFICATION OF LIVING ORGANISMS (5% of teaching time)

1. Characteristics of living - list and describe the characteristics of living
organisms organisms
- define the terms nutrition, excretion, respiration,
sensitivity, reproduction, growth and movement
2. Classification and diversity

of living organisms
2.1 Concept and use of a - define and describe the binomial system of - list the main features used in the classification of
classificatory system naming species and classify the five main the following groups: viruses, bacteria and fungi,
classes of vertebrates using visible, external and their adaptation to the environment, as
characteristic features only appropriate
- list the main features used in the classification of
2.2 Adaptations of organisms to
the following groups: flowering plants
their environment, to be
(monocotyledons and dicotyledons), arthropods
illustrated by examples
(insects, crustaceans, arachnids and myriapods),
wherever possible
annelids, nematodes and molluscs, using visible,
external characteristic features only
3. Simple keys - use simple dichotomous keys based on easily

identifiable features
SECTION II – ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE ORGANISM (50% of teaching time)

1. Cell structure and
organisation
Cellular nature of all living - identify and describe the structure of a plant cell - relate the structures seen under the light
organisms (palisade cell) and an animal cell (liver cell), as microscope in the plant cell and in the animal cell
seen under a light microscope to their functions
- describe the differences in structure between
typical animal and plant cells
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2. Levels of organisation
Modification of cell structure - define tissue and relate the structure of the
for specific functions following to their functions:
ciliated cells – in respiratory tract
root hair cells – absorption
xylem vessels – conduction and support
muscle cells – contraction
red blood cells – transport
- define organ and organ system, as illustrated by
examples covered in Sections II and III
3. Size of specimens - calculate magnification and size of biological

specimens using millimetres as units.
4. Movement in and out of
cells
4.1 Diffusion - define diffusion as the movement of molecules
from a region of their higher concentration to a
region of their lower concentration down a
concentration gradient
- describe the importance of gaseous and solute
diffusion, and of water as a solvent
4.2 Active Transport - define active transport and discuss its
importance as an energy-consuming process by
which substances are transported against a
concentration gradient, e.g. ion uptake by root
hairs and uptake of glucose by epithelial cells of
villi
4.3 Osmosis - define osmosis as the passage of water
molecules from a region of their higher
concentration to a region of their lower
concentration, through a partially permeable
membrane
- describe the importance of osmosis on the uptake - understand the concept of a water potential
of water by plants, and its effects on plant and gradient
animal tissues
5. Enzymes - define the term catalyst

- define enzymes as proteins that function as - describe the role of enzymes in the germination
biological catalysts of seeds, and their uses in biological washing
products and in the food industry
- describe the effect of changes in temperature and
pH on enzyme activity - outline the use of microorganisms and
fermenters to manufacture enzymes for use in
biological washing powders
6. Nutrition - define nutrition as the obtaining of organic
substances and mineral ions from which organisms
obtain their energy and their raw materials for
growth and tissue repair
6.1 Nutrients - list the chemical elements that make up:

carbohydrates
fats
proteins
- describe the synthesis of large molecules from
smaller basic units, i.e.
simple sugars to starch and glycogen
amino acids to proteins
fatty acids and glycerol to fats and oils
- describe tests for:
starch (iodine solution)
reducing sugars (Benedict's solution)
protein (biuret test)
fats (ethanol)
- list the principal sources of, and describe the - describe the use of microorganisms in the food
importance of: industry, with reference to yoghurt, bread and
carbohydrates single cell protein
fats - describe the uses, benefits and health hazards
proteins associated with food additives, including
vitamins (C and D only) colourings
mineral salts (calcium and iron only)
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fibre (roughage)
water
- describe the deficiency symptoms for:
vitamins (C and D only)
mineral salts (calcium and iron only)
6.2 Plant nutrition
Photosynthesis as the
fundamental process by which
plants manufacture simple
sugars from raw materials
6.2.1 Photosynthesis - define photosynthesis and state the equation for - state the equation for photosynthesis in symbols
the production of simple sugars and oxygen in
words - define the term limiting factor and interpret (as
limiting factors that affect photosynthesis) the
effects of light intensity and carbon dioxide
concentration
- describe the intake of the raw materials, the - explain the use of carbon dioxide enrichment,
trapping and storing of energy (conversion of light optimum light and optimum temperatures in
energy into chemical energy), the formation of food greenhouse systems
substances and their subsequent storage
6.2.2 Leaf structure - identify the cellular and tissue structure of a

dicotyledonous leaf, as seen in cross-section, and
demonstrate the significance of these features in
terms of functions, i.e.
distribution of chloroplasts - photosynthesis
stomata and mesophyll cells - gaseous
exchange
vascular bundles (xylem and phloem) - transport
6.2.3 Mineral requirements - describe the importance of: - explain:

nitrate ions for protein synthesis magnesium ions the effects of nitrate ion and magnesium ion
for chlorophyll synthesis deficiency on plant growth
- describe the uses, and the dangers of overuse, of

nitrogen fertilisers
6.3 Animal nutrition

Diet as a balance between
food intake and energy,
growth and health
requirements
6.3.1 Diet - understand the concept of a balanced diet - discuss:

- describe: the problems of world food supplies
the problems which contribute to famine
a balanced diet related to age, sex and activity of (unequal distribution of food, drought and
an individual flooding and increasing population)
the effects of malnutrition in relation to starvation,
coronary heart disease, constipation and
obesity
the effects of alcohol and the dangers of its
misuse
6.3.2 Human alimentary canal - identify the gross structure of the alimentary canal
and associated organs (mouth, oesophagus,
stomach, small intestine: duodenum and ileum,
large intestine: colon and rectum, anus, pancreas,
liver)
- define ingestion, digestion, absorption,

assimilation and egestion
- describe the functions of the alimentary canal's

various parts in relation to ingestion, digestion,
absorption, assimilation and egestion of food
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6.3.3 Mechanical and physical - identify the types of human teeth and - explain the probable action of fluoride in
digestion describe their functions reducing tooth decay and present arguments for
and against its addition to public water supplies
- state the causes of dental decay and describe
the proper care of teeth
- describe the processes of chewing and peristalsis
6.3.4 Chemical digestion - describe:

The significance of producing digestion in the alimentary canal
small, soluble molecules the functions of a typical amylase, protease and
lipase, listing the substrate and end-products
6.3.5 Absorption - identify the small intestine as the region for the - describe the structure of a villus, including the
absorption of digested food role of capillaries and lacteals
- describe the significance of villi in increasing the - indicate the role of the hepatic portal vein in
internal surface area the transport of absorbed food to the liver
6.3.6 Assimilation - describe: - define deamination as removal of the nitrogen

the role of the liver in the metabolism of glucose containing part of amino acids as urea, followed
and in the destruction of excess amino acids the by release of energy from the remainder of the
role of fat as a storage substance amino acid
7. Transportation
7.1 Transport in plants
7.1.1 Water uptake - identify root hair cells, as seen under the light
microscope, and describe their functions
- describe the passage of water through root,
stem and leaf
7.1.2 Transpiration - define transpiration - explain the mechanism of water uptake and
- describe: movement in terms of transpiration producing a
how water vapour loss is related to cell tension ('pull') from above, creating a water
surfaces, air spaces and stomata potential gradient in the xylem, drawing
cohesive water molecules up the plant.
the effects of variation of temperature, humidity
and light intensity on transpiration rate
how wilting occurs - discuss the adaptations of the leaf, stem and
root to different environments, with emphasis on
local examples and the factors described in the
core
7.1.3 Translocation - define translocation in terms of the movement - describe translocation throughout the plant of
of sucrose and amino acids from regions of applied chemicals, including systemic pesticides
production or of storage to regions of utilisation in - compare the role of transpiration and
respiration or growth translocation in the transport of materials from
sources to sinks, within plants at different
seasons
7.2 Transport in humans
7.2.1 Heart - describe:

the gross structure and function of the heart
the effect of exercise on heart beat
- list the likely causes of a heart attack
(diet, smoking and stress), and preventive
measures
7.2.2 Arteries, veins and capillaries - describe:

the structure and functions of arteries, veins and - explain how structure and function are related in
capillaries arteries, veins and capillaries
the double circulatory system
7.2.3 Blood - identify blood cells, as seen under a light - describe the immune system in terms of
microscope antibody production, tissue rejection and
- describe: phagocytosis
the components of blood
- describe the process of clotting (fibrinogen to
the functions of blood, including clotting
fibrin only)
(no details of clotting required)
the transfer of materials between capillaries and - describe the function of the lymphatic system in
tissue fluid circulation of body fluids, and the production of
lymphocytes
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8. Respiration - define respiration as the release of energy from
food substances in all living cells
8.1 Aerobic respiration - define aerobic respiration - state the equation for aerobic respiration using
- state the equation for aerobic respiration, using symbols
words
- name and describe the uses of energy in the
body of humans
8.2 Anaerobic respiration - define anaerobic respiration - state the equation for anaerobic respiration in
muscles (C6H12O6 2C3H6O3) and the
- state the equation for anaerobic respiration in
muscles (glucose lactic acid) and the microorganism yeast (C6H12O6 2C2H5OH +
microorganism yeast (glucose alcohol + carbon 2CO2), using symbols
dioxide), using words
- describe the role of anaerobic respiration in
brewing and breadmaking
- describe the production of lactic acid in muscles
during exercise
- compare aerobic respiration and anaerobic
respiration in terms of relative amounts of energy
released
8.3 Gaseous exchange - list the features of gaseous exchange surfaces in - describe the role of the ribs, the internal and
animals external intercostal muscles and the diaphragm in
producing volume and pressure changes leading
- state the differences in composition between
to the ventilation of the lungs
inspired and expired air
- describe a test for carbon dioxide
- describe: - explain the link between physical activity and
the effects of physical activity on rate and depth rate and depth of breathing in terms of changes in
of breathing respiratory rate ands therefore of carbon dioxide
the effects of tobacco smoke and its major toxic concentration and pH in tissues and in the blood
components on the respiratory system
9. Excretion in humans
The necessity to remove toxic
waste products of metabolism - define excretion as the removal of toxic materials,
the waste products of metabolism and substances
in excess of requirements from organisms
- describe: - outline the structure of a kidney (cortex,
the function of the kidney simply in terms of the medulla, ureter) and outline the structure and
removal of urea and excessive water and the functioning of a kidney tubule including role of
reabsorbtion of glucose and some salts (details renal capsule in filtration from blood of water,
of kidney structure and nephron are not glucose, urea and salts, and role of tubule in
required) reabsorption of glucose, most of the water and
the relative positions of ureters, bladder some salts back into the blood, leading to
and urethra in the body concentration of urea in the urine as well as loss
the formation of urea and the breakdown of excess water
of alcohol, drugs and hormones in the - explain dialysis and discuss its application in
liver kidney machines
- discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
kidney transplants, compared with dialysis
10. Coordination and response

The ability to detect and to
respond to internal and
external stimuli
10.1 Hormones - define hormone - compare hormonal and nervous systems

- describe the chemical control of metabolic activity - discuss the use of hormones in food production
by adrenaline
10.2 Tropic and taxic responses - define geotropism and phototropism - explain the chemical control of plant growth by
auxins including geotropism and phototropism in
- describe simple behaviour in terms of the taxic
responses of invertebrates terms of auxins regulating differential growth, and
the effects of synthetic plant hormones used as
weedkillers
10.3 Nervous control in humans - describe the human nervous system in terms of
the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord
as areas of coordination) and the peripheral
nervous system
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- define sense organs as groups of receptor cells
responding to specific stimuli: light, sound, touch,
temperature and chemicals
- identify motor and sensory neurones from
diagrams
- describe effectors in terms of muscles and glands
- describe the action of antagonistic muscles in
terms of the biceps and triceps and the associated
bones - distinguish between voluntary and involuntary
- describe a simple reflex arc in terms of sensory, actions
relay and motor neurones, and a reflex action as a
means of integrating and coordinating stimuli with
responses - distinguish between rods and cones, in terms of
function and distribution
- describe the structure and function of the eye,
including accommodation and pupil reflex
- compare nervous and hormonal control systems
10.4 Homeostasis - define homeostasis as the maintenance of a - describe the control of the glucose content of the
constant internal environment blood by the liver, and by insulin and glucagon
from the pancreas
- describe temperature regulation, and explain the
effects of sweating, vasodilation and - discuss the general role of negative feedback in
vasoconstriction only homeostasis
10.5 Drugs - describe the effects of alcohol and heroin, and the
dangers of their misuse
- describe the personal and social problems arising
from drug abuse, by reference to alcohol and
heroin
SECTION III – DEVELOPMENT OF THE ORGANISM AND THE CONTINUITY OF LIFE (25% of teaching time)
1. Reproduction
1.1 Asexual reproduction - define asexual reproduction - discuss the advantages and disadvantages to
the species of asexual reproduction
- describe asexual reproduction in bacteria, spore
production in fungi and tuber formation in potatoes
1.2 Sexual reproduction - define sexual reproduction - discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
sexual reproduction
1.2.1 Sexual reproduction in plants - describe the structure and functions of the flower
of a named dicotyledonous plant
- define pollination
- name the agents of pollination - discuss the implications to a species of self-
- compare the different structural adaptations of pollination and cross-pollination
insect-pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers
- describe:
the growth of the pollen tube, and the process of
fertilisation
the formation of seed and fruit
the structure of a non-endospermic seed
- define dispersal of seeds and fruits
- describe seed and fruit dispersal by wind and by
animals
1.2.2 Sexual reproduction in - describe:

humans the structure and function of human male and
female reproductive systems, including the
menstrual cycle
sexual intercourse, fertilisation and implantation
the development of the fetus in terms of - indicate the functions of the amniotic sac and
placenta, maternal and fetal blood supplies and amniotic fluid
exchange of materials
ante-natal care in terms of dietary requirements - describe the advantages of breast-feeding
and maintaining good health compared with bottle-feeding
birth
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1.3 Sex hormones - describe the roles of testosterone and oestrogen - describe the sites of production and the roles of
in the development and regulation of secondary oestrogen and progesterone in the menstrual
sexual characteristics at puberty cycle and in pregnancy
1.4 Methods of birth control - name and describe the following methods of birth - discuss the social aspects of artificial
control: insemination and the use of hormones in fertility
natural, chemical, mechanical and surgical drugs
1.5 Sexually transmissible - describe the symptoms, signs, effects and

diseases treatment of gonorrhoea
- describe the methods of transmission of human - outline how HIV affects the immune system
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and the ways in
which it can be prevented from spreading
2. Growth and development - define growth in terms of increase in dry mass

- define development in terms of increase in
complexity
- describe the environmental conditions affecting
germination
3. Inheritance
The transmission of genetic
information from generation to
generation, leading to
continuity of, and variation
within, the species
3.1 Chromosomes - define the terms chromosome, gene, allele,

haploid and diploid nuclei
- describe the inheritance of sex in humans
(XX, XY)
3.2 Mitosis - describe mitosis simply, in terms of the exact

duplication of chromosomes resulting in identical
daughter nuclei (details of stages are not required)
3.3 Meiosis - describe the production of gametes by meiosis

simply, in terms of halving of chromosome
number leading to variation (details of stages are
not required)
3.4 Monohybrid inheritance - define the terms gene, allele, genotype,

phenotype, homozygous, heterozygous, dominant
and recessive
- calculate and predict the results of monohybrid - explain codominance and inheritance of A, B, AB
crosses involving 1 : 1 and 3 : 1 ratios and O blood groups (IA, IB and Io)
3.5 Variation - describe continuous and discontinuous variation
as influenced by the environment and genes,
illustrated by height and A, B, AB and O blood
groups in humans
- define mutation
- describe sickle cell anaemia, and explain its
- describe mutation as a source of variation, as
incidence in relation to that of malaria
shown by Down's syndrome
- outline the effects of radiation and chemicals on
the rate of mutation
3.6 Selection - describe the role of artificial selection in the - describe variation and state that competition
production of varieties of animals and plants with leads to differential survival of, and reproduction
increased economic importance by, those organisms best fitted to the environment
- define natural selection as the passing on of - assess the importance of natural selection as a
genes by the best adapted organisms possible mechanism for evolution
- describe the development of strains of antibiotic
resistant bacteria as an example of natural
selection
3.7 Genetic Engineering - define genetic engineering as taking a gene from - explain why, and outline how human insulin
one species and putting it into another species genes were put into bacteria using genetic
engineering
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SECTION IV – RELATIONSHIPS OF ORGANISMS WITH ONE ANOTHER AND WITH THEIR ENVIRONMENT
(20% of teaching time)
1. Energy flow - state that the Sun is the principal source of
energy input to biological systems
- describe the non-cyclical nature of energy flow
2. Food chains and food webs - define the terms food chain, food web, producer,
Emphasis on examples consumer, herbivore, carnivore, decomposer,
occurring locally ecosystems and trophic level
- describe energy losses between trophic levels, - recognise that there is an increased efficiency in
and the advantages of short food chains supplying green plants as human food and that
there is a relative inefficiency, in terms of energy
- describe and interpret pyramids of biomass,
loss, in feeding crop plants to animals
numbers and energy
3. Nutrient cycles - describe the carbon and the water cycles - describe the nitrogen cycle in terms of the role of
microorganisms in providing usable nitrogen-
containing substances by decomposition and by
nitrogen fixation in roots; the absorption of these
substances by plants and their conversion to
protein, followed by passage through food chains,
death, decay, nitrification and denitrification and
the return of nitrogen to the soil or the atmosphere
(names of individual bacteria are not required)
- discuss the effects of the combustion of fossil
fuels and the cutting down of forests on the
balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide
4. Population size - state the factors affecting the rate of population

growth, and describe their importance (e.g. food,
supply, predation and disease)
- identify the phases of a sigmoid curve of - explain the factors that lead to the lag phase,
population growth resulting from the action of a exponential phase and stationary phase in the
limiting factor sigmoid curve of population growth
- describe the increase in population size in the

absence of limiting factors (human population
growth) and the social implications of current
human survival rate
- interpret graphs and diagrams of human
population growth
5. Human influences on the
ecosystem
With emphasis on examples
of international importance
(e.g. tropical rain forests,
oceans and rivers)
5.1 Agriculture - discuss, using suitable examples, ways in which
the use of modern technology has resulted in
increased food production
- describe the undesirable effects of deforestation
- describe the overuse of fertilisers on the land
5.2 Pollution - describe the undesirable effects of water - assess the significance of non-biodegradable
pollution by sewage and chemical waste, air plastics and other, materials used in the
pollution by sulphur dioxide and pollution due to manufacturing industry
pesticides and herbicides and nuclear fall-out - discuss the causes and apparent effects on
the environment of acid rain, and the measures
that might be taken to reduce its incidence
5.3 Conservation - describe the need for conservation of species - describe the principle of recycling materials
and their habitats and of natural resources including sewage (water) and paper
14
LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
Practical Assessment – Papers 4, 5 and 6
Whichever assessment route is chosen, the following points should be noted:

• Same assessment objectives for all practical papers
• Same practical skills to be learned and developed by candidates for all practical papers
• Same benefits to theoretical understanding that come from practical work
• Same motivational effect and enthusiasm and enjoyment for teachers and pupils
• Same sequence of practical activities is appropriate
The following is a list of the conditions, materials and equipment that are considered appropriate
for the teaching of IGCSE Biology.
In accordance with the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations

operative in the UK, a hazard appraisal of the list has been carried out. The following codes are
used where relevant.
C = corrosive substance F = highly flammable substance

H = harmful or irritating substance O = oxidizing substance
T = toxic substance
Laboratory Conditions
Adequate bench space (more than 1m x 1m for each student)

Water supply – not necessarily mains supply
Gas supply (for heating) - mains/cylinder
Electrical supply – mains/batteries/generator
Secure area for preparation and storage of items made for practical lessons and tests
Apparatus and materials
Safety equipment appropriate to the work being planned, but at least including eye protection such
as safety spectacles or goggles
Chemical reagents
• hydrogen carbonate indicator (bicarbonate indicator)

• iodine in potassium iodide solution (iodine solution)
• Benedict’s solution (or an alternative such as Fehling’s)
• [C] biuret reagent(s) (sodium or potassium hydroxide solution and copper sulphate
solution)
• [F] ethanol/methylated spirit
• cobalt chloride paper
• pH indicator paper or universal indicator solution or pH probes
• litmus paper
• glucose
• sodium chloride
• aluminium foil or black paper
Instruments
• rulers capable of measuring to 1 mm

• mounted needles or seekers or long pins with large heads
• means of cutting biological materials e.g. scalpels, solid-edged razor blades or knives
• scissors
• forceps
• means of writing on glassware (e.g. wax pencil, water-resistant marker, small self-
adhesive labels and pencils)
15
Glassware and similar (some of which may be glass, plastic or metal)
• beakers or other containers

• test-tubes, test-tube racks and test-tube holders
• funnels
• droppers or teat pipettes or plastic or glass dispensing bottles
• dishes such as Petri dishes or tin lids
• means of measuring small and larger volumes such as syringes, graduated pipettes or
measuring cylinders
• glass rod
• capillary tube
Thermometers (covering at least the range 0 – 100oC (any range starting below 0 and ending
above 100oC is suitable)
Means of heating such as Bunsen or other gas burner or spirit burner
Glass slides and coverslips
White tile or other suitable cutting surface
Visking tube or other selectively permeable membrane material
Hand lens (at least X6)
Desirable apparatus and materials
Microscope with mirror and lamp or with built in light, at least low-power (X10) objective, optional
high-power (X40) objective will greatly increase the range of cellular detail that can be resolved.
Chemical reagents in addition to those listed above
• copper sulphate (blue crystals)

• dilute (1 mol dm-3) hydrochloric acid
• a source of distilled or deionised water
• eosin/red ink
• limewater
• methylene blue
• [C]potassium hydroxide
• sodium hydrogen carbonate (sodium bicarbonate)
• Vaseline/petroleum jelly (or similar)
Mortar and pestle or blender
16
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA FOR PRACTICALS

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT - PAPERS 4 OR 5 OR 6
Scientific subjects are, by their nature, experimental. It is, accordingly, important that an
assessment of a student's knowledge and understanding of Biology should contain a component
relating to practical work and experimental skills (as identified by assessment objective C).
In order to accommodate, within IGCSE, differing circumstances - such as the availability of
resources - three alternative means of assessing assessment objective C objectives are provided,
namely, school-based assessment, a formal practical test, and a written alternative to practical
paper, as outlined in the scheme of assessment.
Paper 4, Coursework (School-based assessment of experimental skills and abilities)

Teachers may not undertake school-based assessment without the written approval of CIE.
This will only be given to teachers who satisfy CIE requirements concerning moderation and they
will have to undergo special training in assessment before entering candidates.
The general Coursework regulations published in the Handbook for Centres should be followed.
Paper 5, Practical Test

Exercises may be set requiring the candidates to:
• follow carefully a sequence of instructions;
• use familiar, and unfamiliar, techniques to record observations and make deductions from them;
• perform simple physiological experiments, e.g. tests for food substances and the use of
hydrogencarbonate indicator, litmus and Universal Indicator paper;
• use a scalpel or a razor blade, forceps, scissors and mounted needles skilfully;
• use a hand lens of not less than x6 magnification to recognise, observe and record familiar,
and unfamiliar, biological specimens;
• make a clear line drawing of a specimen provided, indicate the magnification of the drawing
and label, as required;
• perform simple arithmetical calculations.
It is expected that glassware and instruments normally found in a laboratory, e.g. beakers, test-
tubes, test-tube racks or other holders, funnels, thermometers, specimen tubes, Petri dishes,
syringes, droppers, glass rods, means of heating the equipment referred to above, x6 (at least)
hand lenses and so on, should be available for these experiments, along with reagents (e.g. for
food tests), hydrogencarbonate indicator, litmus paper and Universal Indicator paper.
When planning practical work, teachers should make sure that they do not contravene any school,
education authority or government regulations that restrict the sampling, in educational
establishments, of saliva, blood, urine or other bodily secretions and tissues.
17
Paper 6, Alternative to Practical

This paper is designed to test candidates’ familiarity with laboratory practical procedures.
Questions may be set requiring the candidates to:
• follow carefully a sequence of instructions;
• use familiar, and unfamiliar, techniques to record observations and make deductions from
them;
• recall simple physiological experiments, e.g. tests for food substances, the use of a potometer
and the use of hydrogencarbonate indicator, litmus and Universal Indicator paper;
• recognise, observe and record familiar, and unfamiliar, biological specimens;
• make a clear line drawing from a photograph (or other visual representation) of a specimen,
indicate the magnification of the drawing and label, as required;
• perform simple arithmetical calculations.
18
COURSEWORK (SCHOOL-BASED ASSESSMENT (PAPER 4))

Experimental work forms an integral part of the IGCSE Biology course. The practical aspects to
be assessed are outlined in assessment objective C. It is important that these skills are covered
during the teaching programme. The following scheme has been devised to enable teachers to
develop, assess and record positive achievement in experimental skills. Four practical skills have
been identified in order that assessment may be carried out as precisely as possible. The skills
are discrete but should not be regarded as being performed in isolation.
It is assumed that there has been a background of practical work carried out during the first three
years of secondary education. Thus, it is reasonable to suppose that any single assessment is a
representative measure of a given candidate's ability. This could be, but may not necessarily be,
related to their previous practical experiences.
The experimental skills and abilities, C1 to C4, to be assessed are given below.
C1 Using and organising techniques, apparatus and materials
C2 Observing, measuring and recording
C3 Interpreting and evaluating experimental observations and data
C4 Planning, carrying out and evaluating investigation
The four skills carry equal weighting.
All assessments must be based upon experimental work carried out by the candidates.
It is expected that the teaching and assessment of experimental skills and abilities will take place
throughout the course.
Teachers must ensure that they can make available to the Moderator evidence for two
assessments of each skill for each candidate. For skills C1 to C4 inclusive, information about the
tasks set and how the marks were awarded will be required. In addition, for skills C2, C3 and C4,
the candidate's written work will also be required.
The assessment scores finally recorded for each skill must represent the candidate's best
performances.
For candidates who miss the assessment of a given skill through no fault of their own, for example
because of illness, and who cannot be assessed on another occasion, the CIE procedure for
special consideration should be followed. However, candidates who for no good reason absent
themselves from an assessment of a given skill should be awarded a mark of zero for that
assessment.
CRITERIA FOR ASSESSMENT OF EXPERIMENTAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Each skill must be assessed on a 6 point scale, level 6 being the highest level of achievement.
Each of the skills is defined in terms of three levels of achievement at scores of 2, 4 and 6.
A score of 0 is available if there is no evidence of positive achievement for a skill.
For candidates who do not meet the criteria for a score of 2, a score of 1 is available if there is
some evidence of positive achievement.
A score of 3 is available for candidates who go beyond the level defined for 2, but who do not meet
fully the criteria for 4.
Similarly, a score of 5 is available for those who go beyond the level defined for 4, but do not meet
fully the criteria for 6.
19
SKILL C1 USING AND ORGANISING TECHNIQUES, APPARATUS AND MATERIALS

1
2 - Follows written, diagrammatic or oral instructions to perform a single practical operation.
Uses familiar apparatus and materials adequately, needing reminders on points of safety.
3
4 - Follows written, diagrammatic or oral instructions to perform an experiment involving a series
of step-by-step practical operations.
Uses familiar apparatus, materials and techniques adequately and safely.
5
6 - Follows written, diagrammatic or oral instructions to perform an experiment involving a series
of practical operations where there may be a need to modify or adjust one step in the light of
the effect of a previous step.
Uses familiar apparatus, materials and techniques methodically, correctly and safely.
SKILL C2 OBSERVING, MEASURING AND RECORDING

1
2 - Makes observations or readings, given detailed instructions.
Records results in an appropriate manner, given a detailed format.
3
4 - Makes relevant observations or measurements, given an outline format or brief guidelines.
Records results in an appropriate manner, given an outline format.
5
6 - Makes relevant observations or measurements to a degree of accuracy appropriate to the
instruments or techniques used.
Records results in an appropriate manner, given no format.
SKILL C3 INTERPRETING AND EVALUATING EXPERIMENTAL OBSERVATIONS AND DATA

1
2 - Processes results in an appropriate manner, given a detailed format.
Draws an obvious qualitative conclusion from the results of an experiment.
3
4 - Processes results in an appropriate manner, given an outline format.
Recognises and comments on anomalous results.
Draws qualitative conclusions that are consistent with obtained results, and deduces patterns
in data.
5
6 - Processes results in an appropriate manner, given no format.
Deals appropriately with anomalous or inconsistent results.
Recognises and comments on possible sources of experimental error.
Expresses conclusions as generalisations or patterns, where appropriate.
20
SKILL C4 PLANNING, CARRYING OUT AND EVALUATING INVESTIGATIONS

1
2 - Suggests a simple experimental strategy to investigate a given practical problem.
Attempts 'trial and error' modification in the light of the experimental work carried out.
3
4 - Specifies a sequence of activities to investigate a given practical problem.
In a situation where there are two variables, recognises the need to keep one of them
constant while the other is being changed.
Comments critically on the original plan, and implements appropriate changes in the light of
the experimental work carried out.
5
6 - Analyses a practical problem systematically and produces a logical plan for an investigation.
In a given situation, recognises that there are a number of variables, and attempts to control
them.
Evaluates chosen procedures, suggests/implements modifications, where appropriate, and

shows a systematic approach in dealing with unexpected results.
NOTES FOR GUIDANCE

The following notes are intended to provide teachers with information to help them to make valid
and reliable assessments of the skills and abilities of their candidates.
The assessments should be based on the principle of positive achievement; candidates should be
given opportunities to demonstrate what they understand and can do.
It is expected that candidates will have had opportunities to acquire a given skill before
assessment takes place.
It is not expected that all of the practical work undertaken by a candidate will be assessed.
Assessments can be carried out at any time during the course. However, at whatever stage
assessments are done, the standards applied must be those expected at the end of the course, as
exemplified in the criteria for the skills.
Assessments should normally be made by the person responsible for teaching the candidates.
It is recognised that a given practical task is unlikely to provide opportunities for all aspects of the
criteria at a given level for a particular skill to be satisfied, for example, there may not be any
anomalous results (Skill C3). However, by using a range of practical work, teachers should ensure
that opportunities are provided for all aspects of the criteria to be satisfied during the course.
The educational value of extended experimental investigations is widely recognised. Where such
investigations are used for assessment purposes, teachers should make sure that the candidates
have ample opportunity for displaying the skills and abilities required by the scheme of
assessment.
It is not necessary for all candidates in a Centre, or in a teaching group within a Centre, to be
assessed on exactly the same practical work, although teachers may well wish to make use of
work that is undertaken by all of their candidates.
When an assessment is carried out on group work, the teacher must ensure that the individual
contribution of each candidate can be assessed.
Skill C1 may not generate a written product from the candidates. It will often be assessed by
watching the candidates carrying out practical work.
21
Skills C2, C3 and C4 will usually generate a written product from the candidates. This product will
provide evidence for moderation.
Raw scores for individual practical assessments should be recorded on the Individual Candidate
Record Card. The final, internally moderated total score should be recorded on the Coursework
Assessment Summary Form. Examples of both forms, plus the Sciences Experiment Form, are
shown at the back of this syllabus.
Raw scores for individual practical assessments may be given to candidates as part of the normal
feedback from the teacher. The final, internally moderated, total score, should not be given to the
candidate.
MODERATION
(a) Internal Moderation

When several teachers in a Centre are involved in internal assessments, arrangements must
be made within the Centre for all candidates to be assessed to a common standard.
It is essential that, within each Centre, the marks for each skill assigned within different
teaching groups (e.g. different classes) are moderated internally for the whole Centre entry.
The Centre assessments will then be subject to external moderation.
(b) External Moderation
Individual Candidate Record Cards and Coursework Assessment Summary Forms are to be
submitted to CIE to arrive no later than 30 April (for the June examination) and 31 October
(for the November examination). For external moderation, CIE will require evidence that must
include, for skills C1 to C4 inclusive, information about the tasks set and how the marks
were awarded. In addition, for skills C2, C3 and C4, Centres must send three examples of a
high mark, three examples of an intermediate mark and three examples of a low mark, i.e. 27
pieces of work, that contribute to the final mark, chosen from ten different candidates, must be
submitted by the Centre. If there are ten or fewer candidates, all the Coursework that
contributed to the final mark must be sent. A further sample may be required. All records and
supporting written work should be retained until after the publication of results.
Centres may find it convenient to use loose-leaf A4 file paper for assessed written work, to
reduce the cost when samples are sent through the post for moderation. Original work is
preferred but authenticated photocopies may be sent, if absolutely necessary.
The samples sent to CIE should be arranged separately for skills C2, C3 and C4, the skill
suitably identified and in some mark order, e.g. high to low. The pieces of work for each skill
should not be stapled together. Each piece of work should be labelled with the skill being
assessed, the Centre number and candidate name and number, title of the experiment, a
copy of the mark scheme used and the mark awarded. This information should be attached
securely, mindful that adhesive labels tend to peel off some plastic surfaces.
22
GRADE DESCRIPTIONS
The scheme of assessment is intended to encourage positive achievement by all candidates.
Grade F candidates must show competence in answering questions based on the Core
curriculum.
Grade C candidates must show mastery in answering questions based on the Core curriculum,
plus some ability to answer questions that are pitched at a higher level.
Grade A candidates must show mastery of the Core curriculum and of the Extended curriculum.
Criteria for the standard of achievement likely to have been shown by candidates awarded Grades
F, C and A are shown below.
The standard of achievement required for the award of Grade C includes the criteria for Grade F.
Similarly, the standard of achievement required for the award of Grade A includes the criteria for
Grade C.
A Grade A candidate should be able to:

• relate facts to principles and theories and vice versa;
• state why particular techniques are preferred for a procedure or operation;
• select and collate information from a number of sources and present it in a clear, logical form;
• solve problems in situations that may involve a wide range of variables;
• process data from a number of sources to identify any patterns or trends;
• generate a hypothesis to explain facts, or find facts to support a hypothesis.
A Grade C candidate should be able to:

• link facts to situations not specified in the syllabus;
• describe the correct procedure(s) for a multi-stage operation;
• select a range of information from a given source and present it in a clear, logical form;
• identify patterns or trends in given information;
• solve a problem involving more than one step, but with a limited range of variables;
• generate a hypothesis to explain a given set of facts or data.
A Grade F candidate should be able to:

• recall facts contained in the syllabus;
• indicate the correct procedure for a single operation;
• select and present a single piece of information from a given source;
• solve a problem involving one step, or more than one step if structured help is given;
• identify a pattern or trend where only minor manipulation of data is needed;
• recognise which of two given hypotheses explains a set of facts or data.
23
MATHEMATICAL REQUIREMENTS
Calculators may be used in all parts of the examination.
Candidates should be able to:
1. add, subtract, multiply and divide;
2. understand averages, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios and reciprocals;
3. recognise and use standard notation;
4. use direct and inverse proportion;
5. use positive, whole number indices;
6. draw charts and graphs from given data;
7. interpret charts and graphs;
8. select suitable scales and axes for graphs;
9. make approximate evaluations of numerical expressions;
10. recognise and use the relationship between length, surface area and volume and their units,
on metric scales;
11. use usual mathematical instruments (ruler, compasses);
12. understand the meaning of radius, diameter, square, rectangle.
24
TERMINOLOGY, UNITS, SYMBOLS AND

PRESENTATION OF DATA FOR BIOLOGY
These terms will be used by Principal Examiners during the setting of papers. Students, should be
made aware of the terminology during teaching and practical work.
This section follows the practice laid down in the documents:

Association for Science Education, Signs, Symbols and Systematics: The ASE Companion to 5-16
Science (1995)
Institute of Biology, Biological Nomenclature, Standard terms and expressions used in the
teaching of biology (2000)
1. Numbers
The decimal point will be placed on the line, e.g. 52.35.
Numbers from 1000 to 9999 will be printed without commas or spaces.
Numbers greater than or equal to 10 000 will be printed without commas. A space will be left
between each group of three whole numbers, e.g. 4 256 789.
2. Units
The International System of units will be used (SI units). Units will be indicated in the singular not
in the plural, e.g. 28 kg.
(a) SI units commonly used in Biology are listed below.
N.B. Care should be taken in the use of mass and weight. In most biological contexts, the
term mass is correct, e.g. dry mass, biomass.
Quantity Name of unit Symbol for unit

length kilometre km
metre m
centimetre cm
millimetre mm
micrometre µm
mass tonne (1000 kg) (no symbol)
kilogram kg
gram g
milligram mg
microgram µg
time year y
day d
hour h
minute min
second s
amount of substance mole mol
(b) Derived SI units are listed below.

energy kilojoule kJ
joule J
(calorie is obsolete)
25
(c) Recommended units for area, volume and density are listed below.
area hectare = 104 m2 ha
square metre m2
square decimetre dm2
square centimetre cm2
square millimetre mm2
volume cubic kilometre km3
cubic metre m3
cubic decimetre (preferred to litre) dm3
litre dm3 (not l)
cubic centimetre cm3 (not ml)
cubic millimetre mm3
density kilogram per cubic metre or kg m-3
gram per cubic centimetre or g cm-3
(d) Use of Solidus
The solidus (/) will not be used for a quotient, e.g. m / s for metres per second.
3. Presentation of data
The solidus (/) is to be used for separating the quantity and the unit in tables, graphs and charts,
e.g. time/s for time in seconds.
(a) Tables
(i) Each column of a table will be headed with the physical quantity and the appropriate
unit, e.g. time / s.
There are three acceptable methods of stating units, e.g. metres per sec or m per s or
m s-1.
(ii) The column headings of the table can then be directly transferred to the axes of a
constructed graph.
(b) Graphs
(i) The independent variable should be plotted on the x-axis (horizontal axis) and the
dependent variable plotted on the y-axis (vertical axis).
(ii) Each axis will be labelled with the physical quantity and the appropriate unit, e.g. time / s.
(iii) The graph is the whole diagrammatic presentation. It may have one or several curves
plotted on it.
(iv) Curves and lines joining points on the graph should be referred to as 'curves'.
(v) Points on the curve should be clearly marked as crosses (x) or encircled dots ( . ). If a
further curve is included, vertical crosses (+) may be used to mark the points.
(c) Pie Charts

These should be drawn with the sectors in rank order, largest first, beginning at 'noon' and
proceeding clockwise. Pie Charts should preferably contain no more than six sectors.
(d) Bar Charts

These are drawn when one of the variables is not numerical, e.g. percentage of vitamin C in
different fruits. They should be made up of narrow blocks of equal width that do not touch.
(e) Column Graphs

These are drawn when plotting frequency graphs from discrete data, e.g. frequency of
occurrence of leaves with different numbers of prickles or pods with different numbers of
seeds. They should be made up of narrow blocks of equal width that do not touch.
26
(f) Histograms
These are drawn when plotting frequency graphs with continuous data, e.g. frequency of
occurrence of leaves of different lengths. The blocks should be drawn in order of increasing
or decreasing magnitude and they should be touching.
4. Taxonomy
Taxonomy is the study of the principles of the organisation of taxa into hierarchies. There are
seven levels of taxon - kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species. These may be
used when teaching the concept and use of a classificatory system, the variety of organisms, and
the binomial system. The following should apply:
(a) Five Kingdoms are now recognised as
prokaryotes (Prokaryotae), including bacteria and blue-green bacteria
protoctists (Protoctista), including green, red and brown algae and protozoans
fungi (Fungi)
plants (Plantae)
animals (Animalia)
The viruses cannot be fitted into this classificatory system.
(b) The binomial system of naming gives each organism a two-word name. The first word is the
generic name and the second word is the trivial name, e.g. Homo sapiens. The trivial name
should never be used by itself.
(c) Generic and trivial names are distinguished from the rest of the text either by underlining
(when written or typed) or by being set in italics (in print).
(d) The generic name always takes an initial capital letter. It can be accepted as a shorthand
for the species name where the intent is obvious, e.g. Plasmodium, and in these
circumstances can stand alone.
(e) The common name should not normally be written with an initial capital letter, e.g. cat and
dog. The exception is Man, where it is the common name for a species where the two
sexes are distinguished by the terms man and woman.
(f) A species is not easy to define but an acceptable general definition is as follows.
'A group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring.'
5. Genetics
(a) The terms gene and allele are not synonymous.
A gene is a specific length of DNA occupying a position called a locus. A specific function
can be assigned to each gene. An allele is one of two or more different forms of a gene.
(b) A standard form of presenting genetic crosses should be adopted. The following symbols
should be used as shown.
P designates the cross of pure-breeding (homozygous) individuals.
F1 designates the offspring of homozygous parents.
F2 designates the offspring produced by crossing F1 parents.
(c) The format for the course of a genetic cross should be labelled as shown.
parental phenotypes
parental genotypes
gametes
offspring genotypes
offspring phenotypes
etc.
(d) The gene should be designated by a letter or letters so that upper and lower case versions
are easily distinguishable, e.g. B and b. The upper case letter indicates the dominant allele
and the lower case letter indicates the recessive allele.
(e) The symbols for gametes should be circled to indicate the discrete nature of each gamete.
27
(f) Some form of checkerboard should be used to demonstrate genotypes that can result from
random fusion of gametes. Students should understand that genotypes are only possible
combinations and that only a very large number of offspring can result in all combinations
being achieved.
(g) The term incomplete dominance should be discontinued and in the particular case where
alleles are equally dominant it should be called codominance. Thus codominance should be
used where the influence of both alleles is shown in the phenotype, e.g. the AB blood group
in humans.
6. Terminology
(a) Wherever possible, English terms should be used in preference to Latin or Greek terms,
e.g. the term red blood cell should be used and not erythrocyte.
(b) Generalised terms should be stated in English, e.g. small intestine.
(c) Where no suitable English terms exist, latinised terms are unavoidable and will need to be
used, e.g. atrium, bronchi, villi.
28
GLOSSARY OF TERMS USED IN BIOLOGY PAPERS

It is hoped that the glossary (which is relevant only to Science subjects) will prove helpful
to candidates as a guide, i.e. it is neither exhaustive nor definitive. The glossary has been
deliberately kept brief not only with respect to the number of terms included but also to the
descriptions of their meanings. Candidates should appreciate that the meaning of a term
must depend in part on its context.
1. Define (the term(s) ... ) is intended literally, only a formal statement or equivalent
paraphrase being required.
2. What do you understand by/What is meant by (the term(s) ... ) normally implies that a
definition should be given, together with some relevant comment on the significance or
context of the term(s) concerned, especially where two or more terms are included in the
question. The amount of supplementary comment intended should be interpreted in the
light of the indicated mark value.
3. State implies a concise answer with little or no supporting argument, e.g. a numerical
answer that can readily be obtained 'by inspection'.
4. List requires a number of points, generally each of one word, with no elaboration. Where a
given number of points is specified, this should not be exceeded.
5. (a) Explain may imply reasoning or some reference to theory, depending on the context. It is
another way of asking candidates to give reasons for. The candidate needs to leave the
examiner in no doubt why something happens.
(b) Give a reason/Give reasons is another way of asking candidates to explain why something
happens.
6. (a) Describe, the data or information given in a graph, table or diagram, requires the candidate
to state the key points that can be seen in the stimulus material. Where possible, reference
should be made to numbers drawn from the stimulus material.
(b) Describe, a process, requires the candidate to give a step by step written statement of what
happens during the process.
Describe and explain may be coupled, as may state and explain.
7. Discuss requires the candidate to give a critical account of the points involved in the topic.
8. Outline implies brevity, i.e. restricting the answer to giving essentials.
9. Predict implies that the candidate is not expected to produce the required answer by recall
but by making a logical connection between other pieces of information. Such information
may be wholly given in the question or may depend on answers extracted in an earlier part
of the question.
Predict also implies a concise answer, with no supporting statement required.
10. Deduce is used in a similar way to predict except that some supporting statement is
required, e.g. reference to a law or principle, or the necessary reasoning is to be included in
the answer.
11.(a) Suggest is used in two main contexts, i.e. either to imply that there is no unique answer (e.g.
in Biology, there are a variety of factors that might limit the rate of photosynthesis in a plant
in a glasshouse),
(b) Suggest may also be used to imply that candidates are expected to apply their general
knowledge and understanding of biology to a 'novel' situation, one that may be formally 'not
in the syllabus' – many data response and problem solving questions are of this type.
12. Find is a general term that may variously be interpreted as calculate, measure, determine,
etc.
13. Calculate is used when a numerical answer is required. In general, working should be
shown, especially where two or more steps are involved.
14. Measure implies that the quantity concerned can be directly obtained from a suitable
measuring instrument, e.g. length, using a rule, or mass, using a balance.
29
15. Determine often implies that the quantity concerned cannot be measured directly but is
obtained by calculation, substituting measured or known values of other quantities into a
standard formula, e.g. relative molecular mass.
16. Estimate implies a reasoned order of magnitude statement or calculation of the quantity
concerned, making such simplifying assumptions as may be necessary about points of
principle and about the values of quantities not otherwise included in the question.
17. Sketch, when applied to graph work, implies that the shape and/or position of the curve
need only be qualitatively correct, but candidates should be aware that, depending on the
context, some quantitative aspects may be looked for, e.g. passing through the origin,
having an intercept, asymptote or discontinuity at a particular value.
In diagrams, sketch implies that a simple, freehand drawing is acceptable; nevertheless,
care should be taken over proportions and the clear exposition of important details.
In all questions, the number of marks allocated are shown on the examination paper, and should
be used as a guide by candidates to how much detail to give. In describing a process the mark
allocation should guide the candidate about how many steps to include. In explaining why
something happens, it guides the candidate how many reasons to give, or how much detail to give
for each reason.
30
RESOURCE LIST
The following books have been endorsed by CIE for use with this syllabus.
Hayward, D. IGCSE Study Guide for Biology (2005) Hodder Murray

http://www.hoddereducation.co.uk ISBN 071957904X
Jones, M Biology for IGCSE (New edition 2002) Heinemann http://www.heinemann.co.uk

ISBN: 0435966782
Jones, M & Biology: International Edition (2002) Cambridge University Press

Jones, G http://www.cambridge.org/education/international ISBN: 0521891175
Mackean, D G IGCSE Biology (2002) Hodder Murray http://www.hoddermurray.co.uk

ISBN: 0719580536
Other textbooks that will be found helpful:
Bradfield, P, Longman GCSE Biology (2002) Pearson Education Ltd.

Potter, S, http://www.longman.co.uk ISBN: 0582504694
Dawson, B & Revise GCSE Study Guide in Biology (2001) Letts Educational
Honeysett, I www.letts.education.com/ ISBN 1858059291
Jenkins, M Biology Lives (Edition 2 2001) Hodder & Stoughton Educational

www.hodderheadline.co.uk ISBN 0340790512
Parsons (Ed) GCSE Biology Revision Guides and Workbooks Co-ordination Group
Publications www.cgpbooks.co.uk
Pickering, W R Complete Biology (2000) Oxford University Press www4.oup.co.uk

ISBN 0199147396
Pickering, W R Oxford Revision Guide for Biology (1998) Oxford University Press
www4.oup.co.uk ISBN 0199147116
A resource for teachers to support the delivery of the syllabus
Hayward, D Teaching and Assessing Practical Skills in Science (2003) Cambridge

University Press http://www.cambridge.org/education/international ISBN:
0521753597
CD-ROM
BIOSCOPE biological microscope simulation (Edition 2004) ISBN 1845650263 Cambridge-

Hitachi, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 2BS, UK, www.cambridge-hitachi.com
Includes 56 slide sets of plant and animal specimens, with features that give the feeling of a real
microscope. Paper-based tasks (in Word and PDF format), each of 45 to 60 minutes duration,
accompany the slides meeting the needs of the IGCSE Biology syllabus.
Experiment Simulator (Edition 2005) ISBN 1845651405 Cambridge-Hitachi, Shaftesbury Road,

Cambridge, CB2 2BS, UK, www.cambridge-hitachi.com.
Like the bioscope developed by Cambridge Assessment, and providing six simulated science
experiments to inspire and support pupil learning. Includes excellent worksheets and teacher
notes.
31
Useful websites available at the time of writing
http://www.lungusa.org/diseases/lungemphysem.html American Lung Association

http://www.cellsalive.com CELLS alive
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/biology GCSE BITESIZE revision in biology
http://www.middleschoolscience.com Middleschoolscience
http://www-saps.plantsci.cam.ac.uk SAPS (Science and Plants for Schools)
http://www.schoolscience.co.uk Schoolscience
http://www.sciencespot.net The Science Spot
Copies of syllabuses, past papers and Examiners' reports are available on CD-ROM and can be
ordered using the Publications Catalogue, which is available at www.cie.org.uk under
‘Qualifications & Diplomas’ – ‘Order Publications’.
32
SCIENCES
Experiment Form
IGCSE
Please read the instructions printed on the next page.
Centre Number Centre Name
Syllabus Code 0 6 1 0 Syllabus Title BIOLOGY

Component Number 0 4 Component Title COURSEWORK
June/November 2 0 0 8
Experiment Skill(s)
Experiment
Number Assessed
WMS616 IGCSE/BIOLOGY/CW/EX/08
33
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING SCIENCES EXPERIMENT FORM
1. Complete the information at the head of the form.
2. Use a separate form for each syllabus.
3. Give a brief description of each of the experiments your students performed for assessment
in the IGCSE Biology Syllabus. Use additional sheets as necessary.
4. Copies of the Experiment Forms and the corresponding Worksheets/Instructions and Mark
Schemes will be required for each assessed task sampled, for each of skills C1 to C4
inclusive.
IGCSE/BIOLOGY/CW/EX/08
34
SCIENCES
Individual Candidate Record Card
IGCSE
Please read the instructions printed on the next page and the General Coursework Regulations before completing this form.
Centre Number Centre Name June/November 2 0 0 8
Candidate Number Candidate Name Teaching Group/Set
Syllabus Code 0 6 1 0 Syllabus Title BIOLOGY Component Number 0 4 Component Title COURSEWORK
Assess at least twice: ring highest two

Date of Experiment Number from
marks for each skill Relevant comments (for example, if help was given)
Assessment Sciences Experiment Form
(max 6 for each assessment)
C1 C2 C3 C4
35
Marks to be transferred to TOTAL
Coursework Assessment Summary Form (max 12) (max 12) (max 12) (max 12) (max 48)
IGCSE/BIOLOGY/CW/S/08
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING INDIVIDUAL CANDIDATE RECORD CARDS
2. Mark each item of Coursework for each candidate according to instructions given in the Syllabus and in the Distance Training Pack.
3. Enter marks and total marks in the appropriate spaces. Complete any other sections of the form required.
4. Ensure that the addition of marks is independently checked.
5. It is essential that the marks of candidates from different teaching groups within each Centre are moderated internally. This
means that the marks awarded to all candidates within a Centre must be brought to a common standard by the teacher responsible for
coordinating the internal assessment (i.e. the internal moderator), and a single valid and reliable set of marks should be produced that
reflects the relative attainment of all the candidates in the Coursework component at the Centre.
6. Transfer the marks to the Coursework Assessment Summary Form in accordance with the instructions given on that document.
7. Retain all Individual Candidate Record Cards and Coursework, which will be required for external moderation. Further detailed
instructions about external moderation will be sent in late March of the year of the June examination and early October of the year of the
November examination. See also the instructions on the Coursework Assessment Summary Form.
36
Note: These Record Cards are to be used by teachers only for students who have undertaken Coursework as part of their IGCSE.
SCIENCES
Coursework Assessment Summary Form
IGCSE
Please read the instructions printed on the next page and the General Coursework Regulations before completing this form.
Centre Number Centre Name June/November 2 0 0 8

Syllabus Code 0 6 1 0 Syllabus Title BIOLOGY Component Number 0 4 Component Title COURSEWORK
Internally
Candidate Candidate Name Teaching
C1 C2 C3 C4 Total Mark Moderated Mark
Number Group/Set
(max 12) (max12) (max 12) (max 12) (max48) (max 48)
37
Name of teacher completing this form Signature Date
Name of internal moderator Signature Date
A. INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING COURSEWORK ASSESSMENT SUMMARY FORMS

2. List the candidates in an order that will allow ease of transfer of information to a computer-printed Coursework mark sheet MS1 at a later stage (i.e. in
candidate index number order, where this is known; see item B.1. below). Show the teaching group or set for each candidate. The initials of the teacher may
be used to indicate the group or set.
3. Transfer each candidate's marks from his or her Individual Candidate Record Card to this form as follows.
(a) In the columns headed C1, C2, C3 and C4, enter the marks initially awarded (i.e. before internal moderation took place).
(b) In the column headed Total Mark, enter the total mark awarded before internal moderation took place.
(c) In the column headed Internally Moderated Mark, enter the total mark awarded after internal moderation took place.
4. Both the teacher completing the form and the internal moderator (or moderators) should check the form and complete and sign the bottom portion.
B. PROCEDURES FOR EXTERNAL MODERATION
1. University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) sends a computer-printed Coursework mark sheet MS1 to each Centre (in late March for the June
examination and in early October for the November examination) showing the names and index numbers of each candidate. Transfer the total internally
moderated mark for each candidate from the Coursework Assessment Summary Form to the computer-printed Coursework mark sheet MS1.
2. The top copy of the computer-printed Coursework mark sheet MS1 must be despatched in the specially provided envelope to arrive as soon as possible at CIE
but no later than 30 April for the June examination and 31 October for the November examination.
38
3. Send samples of the candidates' work covering the full ability range with the corresponding Individual Candidate Record Cards, this summary form and the
second copy of MS1, to reach CIE by 30 April for the June examination and 31 October for the November examination.
4. Experiment Forms, Work Sheets and Mark Schemes must be included for each assessed task for each of skills C1 to C4 inclusive.
5. For each of skills C2, C3 and C4, Centres must send three examples of a high mark, three examples of an intermediate mark and three examples of a low
mark- i.e. 27 examples in total. The examples must be from at least ten candidates and must have contributed to the final mark of those candidates.
6. If there is more than one teaching group, the sample should include examples from each group.
7. If there are 10 or fewer candidates submitting Coursework, send all the Coursework that contributed to the final mark for every candidate.
8. Photocopies of the samples may be sent but candidates' original work, with marks and comments from the teacher, is preferred.
9 (a) The samples should be arranged separately, by tasks, for each of skills C2, C3 and C4, the skill suitably identified and in some mark order,
e.g. high to low.
(b) The pieces of work for each skill should not be stapled together, nor should individual sheets be enclosed in plastic wallets.
(c) Each piece of work should be clearly labelled with the skill being assessed, Centre name, candidate name and index number and the mark
awarded. For each task, supply the information requested in B.4. above.
10. CIE reserves the right to ask for further samples of Coursework.

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BIOLOGY 0610

0653 Combined Science

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA FOR PRACTICALS 17

TERMINOLOGY, UNITS, SYMBOLS AND

2. develop abilities and skills that

3. develop attitudes relevant to Biology such as

4. stimulate interest in, and care for, the environment.

5. promote an awareness that

A KNOWLEDGE WITH UNDERSTANDING

B HANDLING INFORMATION AND SOLVING PROBLEMS

C EXPERIMENTAL SKILLS AND INVESTIGATIONS

Assessment Objective Weighting

A Knowledge with understanding 50% (not more than 25% recall)

B Handling information and solving problems 30%

C Experimental skills and investigations 20%

Core curriculum Extended curriculum

Core curriculum Extended curriculum

Paper 2 50% Paper 3 50%

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

SECTION I – CHARACTERISTICS AND CLASSIFICATION OF LIVING ORGANISMS (5% of teaching time)

2. Classification and diversity

3. Simple keys - use simple dichotomous keys based on easily

SECTION II – ORGANISATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE ORGANISM (50% of teaching time)

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

3. Size of specimens - calculate magnification and size of biological

5. Enzymes - define the term catalyst

6.1 Nutrients - list the chemical elements that make up:

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

6.2.2 Leaf structure - identify the cellular and tissue structure of a

6.2.3 Mineral requirements - describe the importance of: - explain:

- describe the uses, and the dangers of overuse, of

6.3 Animal nutrition

6.3.1 Diet - understand the concept of a balanced diet - discuss:

- define ingestion, digestion, absorption,

- describe the functions of the alimentary canal's

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

- describe the processes of chewing and peristalsis

6.3.4 Chemical digestion - describe:

6.3.6 Assimilation - describe: - define deamination as removal of the nitrogen

7.2.1 Heart - describe:

7.2.2 Arteries, veins and capillaries - describe:

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

10. Coordination and response

10.1 Hormones - define hormone - compare hormonal and nervous systems

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

1.2.2 Sexual reproduction in - describe:

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

1.5 Sexually transmissible - describe the symptoms, signs, effects and

2. Growth and development - define growth in terms of increase in dry mass

3.1 Chromosomes - define the terms chromosome, gene, allele,

3.2 Mitosis - describe mitosis simply, in terms of the exact

3.3 Meiosis - describe the production of gametes by meiosis

3.4 Monohybrid inheritance - define the terms gene, allele, genotype,

TOPIC/CONCEPT CORE SUPPLEMENT

4. Population size - state the factors affecting the rate of population

- describe the increase in population size in the

Whichever assessment route is chosen, the following points should be noted:

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