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ALL IB Biology Essay Questions

Biology 1/2 (bio 12), university of melbourne.

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• UNIT 1: CELL BIOLOGY
• 1: INTRODUCTION TO CELLS

1: ULTRASTRUCTURE OF CELLS

1: membrane structure, 1: membrane transport.

• 1: CELL DIVISION
• UNIT 2: MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
• 2: MOLECULES TO METABOLISM

2: CARBOHYDRATES AND LIPIDS

2: proteins.

• 2: STRUCTURE OF DNA AND RNA

2: CELL RESPIRATION

2: photosynthesis.

• UNIT 3: GENETICS

3: CHROMOSOMES

3: inheritance.

• UNIT 4: ECOLOGY

4: SPECIES, COMMUNITIES AND ECOSYSTEMS

4: energy flow, 4: carbon cycling, 4: greenhouse effect.

• UNIT 5: EVOLUTION AND BIODIVERSITY
• 5: EVIDENCE FOR EVOLUTION
• 4: NATURAL SELECTION
• 5: CLASSIFICATION OF BIODIVERSITY
• UNIT 6: HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
• 6: STRUCTURE OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
• 6: THE BLOOD SYSTEM
• 6: DEFENSE AGAINST INFECTIOUS DISEASES
• 6: NEURONS AND SYNAPSES
• 6: HORMONES, HOMEOSTASIS AND REPRODUCTION
• UNIT 7: NUCLEIC ACIDS
• 7 DNA STRUCTURE AND REPLICATION
• 7: TRANSCRIPTION AND GENE EXPRESSION
• 7: TRANSLATION
• UNIT 8: METABOLISM, CELL RESPIRATION AND PHOTOSYNTHE SIS
• 8: METABOLISM
• 8: CELL RESPIRATION
• 8: PHOTOSYNTHESIS
• UNIT 9: PLANT BIOLOGY
• 9: TRANSPORT IN THE XYLEM OF PLANTS
• 9: TRANSPORT IN THE PHLOEM OF PLANTS
• 9: GROWTH IN PLANTS
• 9: REPRODUCTION IN PLANTS
• UNIT 10: GENETICS AND EVOLUTION
• 10: MEIOSIS
• 10: INHERITANCE
• 10: GENE POOLS AND SPECIATION
• UNIT 11: ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
• 11: ANTIBODY PRODUCTION AND VACCINATION
• 11: MOVEMENT
• 11: THE KIDNEY AND OSMOREGULATION
• 11: SEXUAL REPRODUCTION

 example of a differentiated cell in a multicellular organism  cells have all genes/could develop in any way  some genes are switched on/expressed but not others  position/hormones/cell-to-cell signals/chemicals determine how a cell develops  a group of differentiated cells is a tissue

5. Describe the importance of stem cells in differentiation. 3 marks

 stem cells are undifferentiated cells;  embryo cells are stem cells;  stem cells can differentiate in many/all ways / are pluripotent/totipotent;  differentiation involves expressing some genes but not others;  stem cells can be used to repair/replace tissues/heal wounds;

6. Draw a labeled diagram to show the ultrastructure of Escherichia coli. 6 marks

Award 1 for each structure clearly drawn and correctly labeled.

 cell wall – with some thickness;  plasma membrane – shown as single line or very thin;  cytoplasm;  pilus/pili – shown as single lines;  flagellum/flagella – shown as thicker and longer structures than pili and embedded in cell wall;  70S ribosomes;  nucleoid / naked DNA;  approximate width 0 μm / approximate length 2 μm;

Award 4 max if the bacterium drawn does not have the shape of a bacillum (rounded- corner rectangle with length approximately twice its width). Award 4 max if any eukaryotic structures included.

7. Draw a labelled diagram to show the organelles which are found in the cytoplasm of plant cells. 6 marks

 rough endoplasmic reticulum  free ribosomes  Golgi apparatus  mitochondrion  chloroplast  vacuole  nucleus  lysosome  smooth endoplasmic reticulum

8. Draw a labelled diagram showing the ultra-structure of a liver cell. 4 marks

Award 1 for each structure clearly drawn and correctly labelled. Whole cells not necessary.

 (plasma) membrane – single line surrounding cytoplasm;  nucleus – with a double membrane and pore(s) shown;  mitochondria(ion) – with a double membrane, the inner one folded into internal  projections, shown no larger than half the nucleus;  rough endoplasmic reticulum – multi-folded membrane with dots/small circles on surface;  Golgi apparatus – shown as a series of enclosed sacs with evidence of vesicle formation;  ribosomes – dots/small circles in cytoplasm/ribosomes on rER;  lysosome;

Award 0 if plant cell is drawn. Award 2 max if any plant cell structure (e. cell wall) is present.

9. State one function of each of the following organelles: lysosome, Golgi apparatus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, nucleus, mitochondrion. 5 marks

 lysosome : hydrolysis/digestion/break down of materials (macromolecules)  Golgi apparatus : synthesis/sorting/transporting/secretion of cell products  rough endoplasmic reticulum : site of synthesis of proteins (to be secreted)/ intracellular transport of polypeptides to Golgi apparatus  nucleus : controls cells activities/mitosis/replication of DNA/transcription of DNA (to RNA)/directs protein synthesis  mitochondrion : (aerobic) respiration/generates ATP

Plasmids (sometimes) present Plasmids absent

Flagella solid Flagella flexible/membrane-bound

12 a diagram to show the structure of a cell membrane 5 marks

 phospholipids labelled with hydrophillic (heads) and hydrophobic (tails)  phospholipid bilayer clearly shown and labelled  proteins shown in the bilayer and labelled  transmembrane and peripheral/extrinsic proteins shown and labelled  glycoproteins shown and labelled  cholesterol shown and labelled  glycolipids shown and labelled  thickness shown as 10 nm/ + or - 2 nm

Explain how the structure and properties of phospholipids help to maintain the structure of cell membranes. 9 marks

phospholipid structure

 hydrophobic tail/hydrophilic head  head made from glycerol and phosphate  tail made from two fatty acids  saturated/ unsaturated fatty acid (in tail)

arrangement in membrane

 phospholipids form a bilayer  heads face outside the membrane/ tails face inside the membrane/ hydrophic interior/ hydrophilic exterior of membrane  phospholipids held together by hydrophobic interactions  phospholipid layers are stabilized by interaction of hydrophilic heads and surrounding water  phospholipids allow for membrane fluidity/ flexibility  fluidity/ flexibility helps membranes to be (functionally) stable  phospholipids with short fatty acids/ unsaturated fatty acids are more fluid  fluidity is important in breaking and remaking membranes (e. endocytosis/ exocytosis)  phospholipids can move about/ move horizontally/ "flip flop" to increase fluidity

14 the role of vesicles in transportation of materials within cells. 8 marks

 vesicles are membrane bound packages/droplets  formed by pinching off/budding off a piece from a membrane  can carry proteins  rough ER synthesizes proteins  proteins enter/accumulate inside the ER  transported to Golgi apparatus for processing  targeted to/transported to specific cellular organelles  fuse with membrane of organelle so contents of vesicle join the organelle  transported to the plasma membrane  fuses with plasma membrane releases/secretes contents  exocytosis

15 between active and passive movements of materials across plasma membranes, using named examples. 4 marks

 passive: oxygen across alveoli / other example, whereas , active transport: glucose absorption in ileum / other example;  passive: diffusion / osmosis / facilitated diffusion, whereas , active transport: ion pumps / exocytosis / pinocytosis / phagocytosis  a second passive method (from above), whereas , active transport: a second active method; (from above)  passive: does not require energy, whereas , active transport: requires energy/ATP;  passive: down concentration gradient, whereas , active transport: against concentration gradient;  passive: no pumps needed, whereas , active transport: requires protein pumps;

16, with an example, the process of exocytosis. 5 marks

 vesicles carry material to plasma membrane;  vesicle fuses with membrane;  (by joining of) phospholipid bilayers;  aided by the fluidity of the membrane;  material released/expelled from the cell;  membrane flattens;  name of example e. exocytosis of neurotransmitter / exocrine secretion/endocrine secretion / hormone secretion / release of cortical granules;  outline of example: (in the presence of calcium), neurotransmitter vesicles release their contents into the synapse / hormones released from one cell have an effect on another cell etc.;

1: Cell Division

17 the processes that occur in a cell during interphase, including those needed to prepare for mitosis. 4 marks

 DNA replication  DNA transcription  enzyme/ protein synthesis  biochemical reactions/ example of a biochemical reaction  cell respiration  growth  organelles replicated

5. Draw a molecule of ribose. 1 mark.

6 the thermal, cohesive and solvent properties of water. 5 marks

 water has a high specific heat capacity;  a large amount of heat causes a small increase in temperature;  water has a high latent heat of vaporization;  a large amount of heat energy is needed to vaporize/evaporate water;  hydrogen bonds between water molecules make them cohesive/stick together;  this gives water a high surface tension / explains how water rises up xylem;  water molecules are polar;  this makes water a good solvent;

Award 4 max if thermal, cohesive and solvent properties are not all mentioned.

7. Describe the significance of water to living organisms. 5 marks

Each feature or property must be related to living organisms in order to receive a mark. Features may include:

 surface tension - allows some organisms (e. insects) to move on water's surface  polarity / capillarity / adhesion - helps plants transport water  (excellent) solvent - capable of dissolving substances for transport in organisms  (excellent) thermal properties (high heat of vaporization) - excellent coolant  ice floats - lakes / oceans do not freeze, allowing life under the ice  buoyancy - supports organisms  structure - turgor in plant cells / hydrostatic pressure  habitat - place for aquatic organisms to live

8. Describe the use of carbohydrates and lipids for energy storage in animals. 5 marks

Answers must discuss both carbohydrates and lipids to receive full marks

carbohydrates: 3 max

 stored as glycogen (in liver)  short-term energy storage  more easily digested than lipids so energy can be released more quickly  more soluble in water for easier transport

lipids: 3 max

 stored as fat in animals  long-term energy storage  more energy per gram than carbohydrates  lipids are insoluble in water so less osmotic effect

9. List three functions of lipids. 3 marks

 energy storage / source of energy / respiration substrate  (heat) insulation  protection (of internal organs)  water proofing / cuticle  buoyancy  (structural) component of cell membranes  electrical insulation by myelin sheath  (steroid) hormones  glycolipids acting as receptors

10. List four functions of proteins, giving an example of each. 4 marks

name of function and named protein must both be correct for the mark

 storage - zeatin (in corn seeds)/casein (in milk)  transport - hemoglobin/lipoproteins (in blood)  hormones - insulin/growth hormone/TSH/FSH/LH  receptors - hormone receptor/neurotransmitter receptor/receptor in chemoreceptor cell  movement - actin/myosin  defense - antibodies/immunoglobin  enzymes - catalase/RuBP carboxylase  structure - collagen/keratin/tubulin/fibroin  electron carriers - cytochromes  pigments - rhodopsin  active transport - sodium potassium pumps/calcium pumps  facilitated diffusion - sodium channels/aquaporins

11. Describe the structure of proteins. 9 marks

 (primary structure is a) chain of amino acids/sequence of amino acids  (each position is occupied by one of) 20 different amino acids  linked by peptide bonds  secondary structure formed by interaction between amino and carboxyl/-NH and -C=O groups  (weak) hydrogen bonds are formed  (α-) helix formed / polypeptide coils up  or (ß-) pleated sheet formed  tertiary structure is the folding up of the polypeptide  stabilized by disulfide bridges / hydrogen / ionic / hydrophobic bond  quaternary structure is where several polypeptide subunits join  conjugated proteins are proteins which combine with other non-protein molecules  for example metals / nucleic acids / carbohydrates / lipids

 backbone labelled as covalent bond between nucleotides correctly shown as 3 to 5 bond;  two base pairs linked by hydrogen bonds drawn as dotted lines and labelled;  two H bonds between A and T and three H bonds between C and G;  adenine to thymine and cytosine to guanine; do not accept initials of bases  antiparallel orientation shown;

19 the structure of the DNA double helix, including its subunits and the way in which they are bonded together. 8 marks

 subunits are nucleotides  one base, one deoxyribose and one phosphate in each nucleotide  description/ diagram showing base linked to deoxyribose C1 and phosphate to C  four different bases - adenine, cytosine, guanine and thymine  nucleotides linked up with sugar-phosphate bonds  covalent/ phosphodiester bonds  two strands (of nucleotides) linked together  base to base  A to T and G to C  hydrogen bonds between bases  antiparallel strands  double helix drawn or described

20 the genetic code. 6 marks

 composed of mRNA base triplets  called codons  64 different codons  each codes for the addition of an amino acid to a growing polypeptide chain  the genetic code is degenerate  meaning more than one codon can code for a particular amino acid  the genetic code is universal  meaning it is the same in almost all organisms  (AUG is the) start codon  some (nonsense) codons code for the end of translation

21 briefly the advantages and disadvantages of the universality of the genetic code to humans. 4 marks

 genetic material can be transferred between species/ between humans  one species could use a useful gene from another species  transgenic crop plants/ livestock can be produced  bacteria/ yeasts can be genetically engineered to make a useful product  viruses can invade cells and take over their genetic apparatus  viruses cause disease

22 between RNA and DNA. 3 marks

 DNA is double-stranded while RNA is single-stranded;  DNA contains deoxyribose while RNA contains ribose;  the base thymine found in DNA is replaced by uracil in RNA;  one form of DNA (double helix) but several forms of RNA (tRNA, mRNA and rRNA);

23 the roles of mRNA, tRNA and ribosomes in translation. 6 marks

 mRNA with genetic code/ codons  tRNA with anticodon  tRNA with amino acid attached  ribosome with two sub-units  mRNA held by ribosome

 start codon  two tRNA molecules attached with mRNA on ribosome  peptide bond between amino acids on tRNA  polypeptide forms  continues until a stop codon is reached  polypeptide is released

24 the similarities and differences in anaerobic and aerobic cellular respiration. 8 marks

Answers must include both similarities and differences to receive full marks.

 aerobic requires oxygen and anaerobic does not utilize oxygen

similarities: 3 max

 both can start with glucose  both use glycolysis  both produce ATP/energy(heat)  both produce pyruvate  carbon dioxide is produced  (both start with glycolosis) aerobic leads to Krebs' cycle and anaerobic leads to fermentation

differences: 5 max

anaerobic :

 (fermentation) produces lactic acid in humans  (fermentation) produces ethanol and CO2 in yeast  occurs in cytoplasm of the cell  recycles NADH (NAD+)

aerobic cellular respiration

 pyruvate transported to mitochondria  further oxidized to CO2 and water (in Krebs cycle)  produces a larger amount of ATP (36-38 ATP)/anaerobic produces less ATP (2)  can use other compounds / lipids / amino acids for energy

25 how pyruvate is used in human cells when oxygen is available and when oxygen is not available. 5 marks

 aerobic cell respiration if oxygen available and anaerobic if unavailable;  pyruvate enters mitochondrion for aerobic respiration;  whereas pyruvate stays in the cytoplasm for processing under anaerobic conditions;  pyruvate converted aerobically into carbon dioxide and water;  whereas pyruvate converted anaerobically to lactate;  large ATP yield when oxygen available/from aerobic cell respiration;  no (further) ATP yield without oxygen;

26 the effect of temperature, light intensity and carbon dioxide concentration on the rate of photosynthesis. 6 marks

Unit 3: Genetics

1 the terms gene and allele and explain how they differ. 4 marks

 gene is a heritable factor / unit of inheritance  gene is composed of DNA  gene controls a specific characteristic / codes for a polypeptide / protein  allele is a form of a gene  alleles of a gene occupy the same gene locus / same position on chromosome  alleles differ (from each other) by one / a small number of bases(s)/ base pair(s)

2. Describe the consequences of a base substitution mutation with regards to sickle cell anemia. 7 marks

 the sequence of nucleotide bases in DNA codes for the sequence of amino acids in proteins  DNA is transcribed into mRNA, which is translated into amino acids of protein  normal (ß chain) hemoglobin gene / DNA produces normal (ß chain) hemoglobin protein / amino acids  substitution= the replacement of one (or more) nucleotide base with another  caused by a copying mistake during DNA replication  as a result of a mutagen / X-rays / chemical / UV radiation / other mutagen  mutation in normal (ß chain) hemoglobin gene alters the sequence of nucleotide bases  normal nucleotide sequence = CTC altered to CAC  resulting in altered mRNA (GAG to GUG) during transcription  resulting in altered sequence of amino acids in (ß chain) hemoglobin protein (glutamic acid to valine) during translation  causing red blood cells to change shape / sickle under low oxygen conditions  causing sickle cells anemia when two copies of the mutated gene are inherited  producing a sickle cell carrier when one copy of the mutated gene is inherited  sickle cells anemia reduces oxygen flow to organs, leading to their deterioration

3. Karyograms involve arranging the chromosomes of an individual into pairs. Describe one application of this process, including the way in which the chromosomes are obtained . 5 marks

application of karyogram {2 max}

 find gender / test for Down's syndrome / other chromosome abnormality  identify sex chromosomes / numbers of chromosome 21 / other chromosomes counted  XX = female and XY = male / third chromosome 21 indicates Down's syndrome / other chromosome abnormality (e. Klinefelter's syndrome)

obtaining chromosomes {3 max}

 fetal cells obtained from amniotic fluid / amniocentesis / other named source  white blood cells obtained  cells encouraged to divide  cells accumulated / blocked in metaphase  prepare slide / chromosomes examined

4. Compare the processes of mitosis and meiosis. 6 marks

answers must be pair-wise comparisons to receive any marks.

 Mitosis: one cell division & Meiosis: two divisions / reduction division  Mitosis: chromosome number does not change & Meiosis: converts diploid to haploid cells  Mitosis: products genetically identical & Meiosis: products genetically diverse  Mitosis: separation of sister chromatids in anaphase & Meiosis: separation of homologous chromosomes in anaphase I and sister chromatids in anaphase II  Mitosis: no crossing over & Meiosis: crossing over in prophase I  Mitosis: no formation of tetrads / no synapsis & Meiosis: formation of tetrads / synapsis  Mitosis: produce cells for growth/repair/asexual reproduction & Meiosis: produce sexual cells / gametes for sexual reproduction  Mitosis: two cells produced & Meiosis: four cells produced  Mitosis: daughter cells with both copies of chromosomes/random assortment does not occur & Meiosis: random assortment of maternal/ paternal chromosomes  Mitosis: replication of DNA in interphase & Meiosis: replication of DNA in interphase I  Mitosis: four phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase & Meiosis: same four phases twice

5. Outline one example of inheritance involving multiple alleles. 5 marks

 multiple alleles means a gene has three or more alleles / more than two alleles  ABO blood groups / other named example of multiple alleles  ABO gene has three alleles / equivalent for other example  IA IB and i shown (at some point in the answer) / equivalent for other example

accept other notation for alleles if clear

 any two of these alleles are present in an individual  homozygous and heterozygous genotype with phenotypes (shown somewhere)  all six genotypes with phenotypes given (shown somewhere)  example / diagram of a cross involving all three alleles

6. Describe the inheritance of ABO blood groups including an example of the possible outcomes of a homozygous blood group A mother having a child with a blood group O father. 5 marks

 example of co-dominance  multiple alleles / 3 alleles  (phenotype) O has (genotype) ii  B can be IB IB or IB i  A can be IA IA or IA i  AB is IA IB  (P are) i i x IA IA  (gametes) i and IA  (F1 genotype) IA i  (F1 phenotype) blood group A

accept other notations if used consistently and if phenotype and genotype are clearly distinguished

Unit 4: Ecology

Discuss the definition of the term species. (8 max)

 a species is a group of organisms  a species shares a common gene pool  showing similar morphology / characteristics  capable of interbreeding  and producing fertile offspring  but dissimilar organisms sometimes interbreed  mule formed by crossing horse and donkey / other example of interspecific hybridization  interspecific hybrids are sometimes fertile  sometimes organisms that are very similar will not interbreed  Drosophila pseudoobscura and persimilis / other example of sibling species  reference to the problem of defining fossil species  reference to the problem of species that only reproduce asexually  reference to the problem of isolated populations gradually diverging

Compare the ways in which autotrophic, heterotrophic and saprotrophic organisms obtain energy. (6 max)

 autotrophs use an external / non-organic energy source

(reject statements suggestion that energy is made)

 (some) autotrophs use light / (some) autotrophs use photosynthesis

 (some) autotrophs use inorganic chemical reactions / (some) autotrophs use chemosynthesis  heterotrophs obtain energy from other organisms  heterotrophs (usually) ingest food / consume food  saprotrophs obtain energy from non-living matter / dead organisms  saprotrophs are heterotrophs that obtain organic nutrients from dead organisms by external digestion.  detrivores are heterotrophs that obtain organic nutrients from detritus by internal digestion

Explain the shape of the pyramids of energy that are constructed by ecologists to represent energy flow in an ecosystem (4 max)

 energy flows up from one trophic level to the next (in a community)  energy is lost at each stage by waste products/feces/incomplete consumption of organism  most of the energy is lost through respiration/heat  each level on the pyramid is about 10%-20% of the one below it/80%-90% of energy lost between levels.

Explain how the flow of energy in the food web differs from the movement of nutrients (2 max)

 nutrients are recycled in a food web by saprotrophs;  whereas energy is dispersed/radiated as heat

State what carbon fluxes and carbon sinks are and describe how carbon fluxes are measured (4 max)

 a carbon flux is the rate of exchange of carbon between the various carbon sinks;  a carbon sink is a forest, ocean or other natural environment viewed in terms of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere;  example of a carbon sink (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere)  not possible to directly measure the size of carbon sinks and fluxes;  due to constant changes;  global carbon fluxes are very large and estimated in gigatonnes per year;

Draw a model of the carbon cycle (6 max)

Describe the greenhouse effect (5 max)

 greenhouse effect is the earth’s ability to use its atmosphere to retain heat and keep warm even when no sun is hitting the surface;  short wave radiation emitted by the sun;  pass through greenhouse gases;  long wave radiation emitted by earth;  absorbed by greenhouse gases and reflected back to  most significant greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide and water vapor;  methane not significant because of low concentration;

Distinguish between greenhouse effect and enhanced greenhouse effect (2 max)

 greenhouse effect is earth’s natural ability to retain heat;  enhanced greenhouse effect is impact on climate from additional heat retained;  due to increased amounts of greenhouse gases that humans have released.  enhanced greenhouse effect leads to global warming, greenhouse effect does not.

• Multiple Choice

Course : biology 1/2 (BIO 12)

University : university of melbourne, this is a preview.

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IBDP Biology SL&HL: IB Style Questions Bank-All Papers

• IB DP Biology 2025 SL- IB Style Practice Questions with Answer-Topic Wise-Paper 1
• IB DP Biology 2025 HL- IB Style Practice Questions with Answer-Topic Wise-Paper 1 
• IB DP Biology 2025 SL- IB Style Practice Questions with Answer-Topic Wise-Paper 2
• IB DP Biology 2025 HL- IB Style Practice Questions with Answer-Topic Wise-Paper 2

IB DP Biology SL 2025

IB DP Biology HL 2025

• Time: 45 minutes (30 marks)
• 30 multiple – choice questions (core)
• No marks deducted from incorrect answers
• NO CALCULATOR ALLOWED
• Data booklet provided
• Time: 60 minutes (40 marks)
• 40 multiple – choice questions (core & AHL)

Topic 1: Cell Topic

• Topic 1.1 Introduction to cells  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.1 Introduction to cells  HL Paper 1
• Topic 1.2 Ultrastructure of cells  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.2 Ultrastructure of cells  HL Paper 1
• Topic 1.3 Membrane structure  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.3 Membrane structure  HL Paper 1
• Topic 1.4 Membrane transport  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.4 Membrane transport  HL Paper 1
• Topic 1.5 The origin of cells  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.5 The origin of cells  HL Paper 1
• Topic 1.6 Cell division  SL Paper 1
• Topic 1.6 Cell division  HL Paper 1

Topic 2: Molecular biology

• 2.1 Molecules to metabolism  SL Paper 1
• 2.1 Molecules to metabolism  HL Paper 1
• 2.2 Water  SL Paper 1
• 2.2 Water  HL Paper 1
• 2.3 Carbohydrates and lipids  SL Paper 1
• 2.3 Carbohydrates and lipids HL Paper 1
• 2.4 Proteins  SL Paper 1 
• 2.4 Proteins  HL Paper 1 
• 2.5 Enzymes  SL Paper 1
• 2.5 Enzymes  HL Paper 1
• 2.6 Structure of DNA and RNA  SL Paper 1
• 2.6 Structure of DNA and RNA  HL Paper 1
• 2.7 DNA replication, transcription and translation  SL Paper 1
• 2.7 DNA replication, transcription and translation  HL Paper 1
• 2.8 Cell respiration  SL Paper 1
• 2.8 Cell respiration  HL Paper 1
• 2.9 Photosynthesis  SL Paper 1
• 2.9 Photosynthesis  HL Paper 1

Topic 3: Genetics

• 3.1 Genes  SL Paper 1
• 3.1 Genes  HL Paper 1
• 3.2 Chromosomes SL Paper 1
• 3.2 Chromosomes  HL Paper 1
• 3.3 Meiosis SL Paper 1
• 3.3 Meiosis HL Paper 1
• 3.4 Inheritance Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 3.4 Inheritance Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 4: Ecology

• 4.1 Species, communities and ecosystems Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 4.1 Species, communities and ecosystems Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 4.2 Energy flow Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 4.2 Energy flow Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 4.3 Carbon cycling Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 4.3 Carbon cycling Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 4.4 Climate change Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 4.4 Climate change Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 5: Evolution and biodiversity

• 5.1 Evidence for evolution Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 5.1 Evidence for evolution Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 5.2 Natural selection Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 5.2 Natural selection Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 5.3 Classification of biodiversity Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 5.3 Classification of biodiversity Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 5.4 Cladistics Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 5.4 Cladistics Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 6: Human physiology

• 6.1 Digestion and absorption Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.1 Digestion and absorption Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 6.2 The blood system Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.2 The blood system Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 6.3 Defence against infectious disease Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.3 Defence against infectious disease Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 6.4 Gas exchange Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.4 Gas exchange Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 6.5 Neurons and synapses Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.5 Neurons and synapses Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 6.6 Hormones, homeostasis and reproduction Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 6.6 Hormones, homeostasis and reproduction Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 7: Nucleic acids

• 7.1 DNA structure and replication Question Bank SL Paper 1
• 7.1 DNA structure and replication Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 7.2 Transcription and gene expression Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 7.3 Translation Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 8: Metabolism, cell respiration and photosynthesis

• 8.1 Metabolism Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 8.2 Cell respiration Question Bank HL Paper 1
• 8.3 Photosynthesis Question Bank HL Paper 1

Topic 9: Plant biology

• 9.1 Transport in the xylem of plants-HL Paper 1
• 9.2 Transport in the phloem of plants-HL Paper 1
• 9.3 Growth in plants-HL Paper 1
• 9.4 Reproduction in plants-HL Paper 1

Topic 10: Genetics and evolution

• 10.1 Meiosis-HL Paper 1
• 10.2 Inheritance HL Paper 1
• 10.3 Gene pools and speciation HL Paper 1

Topic 11: Animal physiology

• 11.1 Antibody production and vaccination HL Paper 1
• 11.2 Movement HL Paper 1
• 11.3 The kidney and osmoregulation HL Paper 1
• 11.4 Sexual reproduction HL Paper 1
• Time: 75 minutes (50 marks)
• Short – answer and extended – response questions (core)
• CALCULATOR ALLOWED
• Time: 135 minutes (95 marks)
• Short – answer and extended – response questions (core & AHL)
• 36% weight​​​ 
• Topic 0.0 Working with data SL Paper 2
• Topic 0.0 Working with data HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.1 Introduction to cells SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.1 Introduction to cells  HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.2 Ultrastructure of cells  SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.2 Ultrastructure of cells  HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.3 Membrane structure  SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.3 Membrane structure  HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.4 Membrane transport  SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.4 Membrane transport HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.5 The origin of cells  SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.5 The origin of cells  HL Paper 2
• Topic 1.6 Cell division  SL Paper 2
• Topic 1.6 Cell division  HL Paper 2
• 2.1 Molecules to metabolism  SL Paper 2
• 2.1 Molecules to metabolism HL Paper 2
• 2.2 Water  SL Paper 2
• 2.2 Water  HL Paper 2
• 2.3 Carbohydrates and lipids SL Paper 2
• 2.3 Carbohydrates and lipids  HL Paper 2
• 2.4 Proteins  SL Paper 2
• 2.4 Proteins  HL Paper 2
• 2.5 Enzymes SL Paper 2
• 2.5 Enzymes  HL Paper 2
• 2.6 Structure of DNA and RNA  SL Paper 2
• 2.6 Structure of DNA and RNA  HL Paper 2
• 2.7 DNA replication, transcription and translation  SL Paper 2
• 2.7 DNA replication, transcription and translation HL Paper 2
• 2.8 Cell respiration  SL Paper 2
• 2.8 Cell respiration  HL Paper 2
• 2.9 Photosynthesis SL Paper 2
• 2.9 Photosynthesis HL Paper 2
• 3.1 Genes  SL Paper 2
• 3.1 Genes  HL Paper 2
• 3.2 Chromosomes  SL Paper 2
• 3.2 Chromosomes  HL Paper 2
• 3.3 Meiosis Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 3.3 Meiosis Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 3.4 Inheritance Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 3.4 Inheritance Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 4.1 Species, communities and ecosystems Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 4.1 Species, communities and ecosystems Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 4.2 Energy flow Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 4.2 Energy flow Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 4.3 Carbon cycling Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 4.3 Carbon cycling Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 4.4 Climate change Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 4.4 Climate change Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 5.1 Evidence for evolution Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 5.1 Evidence for evolution Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 5.2 Natural selection Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 5.2 Natural selection Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 5.3 Classification of biodiversity Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 5.3 Classification of biodiversity Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 5.4 Cladistics Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 5.4 Cladistics Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.1 Digestion and absorption Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.1 Digestion and absorption Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.2 The blood system Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.2 The blood system Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.3 Defence against infectious disease Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.3 Defence against infectious disease Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.4 Gas exchange Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.4 Gas exchange Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.5 Neurons and synapses Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.5 Neurons and synapses Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 6.6 Hormones, homeostasis and reproduction Question Bank SL Paper 2
• 6.6 Hormones, homeostasis and reproduction Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 7.1 DNA structure and replication Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 7.2 Transcription and gene expression Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 7.3 Translation Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 8.1 Metabolism Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 8.2 Cell respiration Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 8.3 Photosynthesis Question Bank HL Paper 2
• 9.1 Transport in the xylem of plants-HL Paper 2
• 9.2 Transport in the phloem of plants-HL Paper 2
• 9.3 Growth in plants-HL Paper 2
• 9.4 Reproduction in plants-HL Paper 2
• 10.1 Meiosis-HL Paper 2
• 10.2 Inheritance HL Paper 2
• 10.3 Gene pools and speciation HL Paper 2
• 11.1 Antibody production and vaccination HL Paper 2
• 11.2 Movement HL Paper 2
• 11.3 The kidney and osmoregulation HL Paper 2
• 11.4 Sexual reproduction HL Paper 2
• Time: 60 minutes (35 marks)
• Section A: Data – based questions and short – answer questions on experimental work
• Section B: Short – answer and extended – response questions from one option
• Time: 75 minutes (45 marks)

​THE EXPERIMENT is done on ONE OF THE 10 REQUIRED PRACTICALS!

Topic 1: Cell biology

• Biology 1.1 Introduction to cells  HL Paper 3
• Biology 1.1 Introduction to cells  SL Paper 3
• Biology 1.2 Ultrastructure of cells  SL Paper 3
• Biology 1.4 Membrane transport  HL/SL Paper 3
• Biology 1.5 The origin of cells  SL Paper 3
• Biology 1.5 The origin of cells  HL Paper 3
• 2.2 Water Question Bank SL Paper 3
• 2.3 Carbohydrates and lipids  SL Paper 3
• 3.2 Chromosomes
• 3.3 Meiosis
• 3.4 Inheritance
• 3.5 Genetic modification and biotechnology

Option A: Neurobiology and behavior (Core topics)

• A.1 Neural development HL Paper 3
• A.1 Neural development SL Paper 3
• A.2 The human brain HL Paper 3
• A.2 The human brain SL Paper 3
• A.3 Perception of stimuli HL Paper 3
• A.3 Perception of stimuli SL Paper 3

Option A: Neurobiology and behaviour (Additional higher level topics)

• A.4 Innate and learned behaviour HL Paper 3
• A.4 Innate and learned behaviour SL Paper 3
• A.5 Neuropharmacology HL Paper 3
• A.5 Neuropharmacology SL Paper 3
• A.6 Ethology HL Paper 3
• A.6 Ethology SL Paper 3

Option B: Biotechnology and bioinformatics (Core topics)

• B.1 Microbiology: organisms in industry HL Paper 3
• B.1 Microbiology: organisms in industry SL Paper 3
• B.2 Biotechnology in agriculture HL Paper 3
• B.2 Biotechnology in agriculture SL Paper 3
• B.3 Environmental protection HL Paper 3
• B.3 Environmental protection SL Paper 3

Option B: Biotechnology and bioinformatics (Additional higher level topics)

• B.4 Medicine
• B.5 Bioinformatics

Option C: Ecology and conservation (Core topics)

• C.1 Species and communities
• C.2 Communities and ecosystems
• C.3 Impacts of humans on ecosystems
• C.4 Conservation of biodiversity

Option C: Ecology and conservation (Additional higher level topics)

• C.5 Population ecology
• C.6 Nitrogen and phosphorus cycles

Option D: Human physiology (Core topics)

• D.1 Human nutrition
• D.2 Digestion
• D.3 Functions of the liver
• D.4 The heart

Option D: Human physiology (Additional higher level topics)

• D.5 Hormones and metabolism
• D.6 Transport of respiratory gases

Related Links

• IB DP Biology SL&HL: Question Bank
• IB Biology Study Guide and Notes for SL/HL
• IB DP Physics SL&HL: Question Bank
• IB Physics Study Guide and Notes for SL/HL

Here are some steps you can follow to prepare effectively:

Study the syllabus: Make sure you understand the topics that are covered in the IB DP Biology syllabus. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect on the exams.

Review class notes and textbooks: Regularly review your class notes and textbooks to reinforce your understanding of the material.

Practice, practice, practice: Practice solving Biology problems as much as possible. Try to work through as many practice questions and Mock tests as you can find here at iitianacademy.com . This will help you get a feel for the types of questions you can expect on the exams and build your problem-solving skills.

Seek help when needed: If you’re struggling with a particular concept, don’t hesitate to ask your teacher or a tutor for help.

Stay organized: Make sure to keep track of important formulas, equations, and concepts so you can easily reference them when you need to.

Stay up-to-date on current events in Biology : Being knowledgeable about current developments in Biology can help you better understand the applications of the concepts you are learning.

This Practice Questions are for IBDP Biology for assessments in May 2024 and November 2024.

For IB DP Biology Assessment from May 2025 onwards please follow this link

IBDP Biology May 2025 and onwards 

Exam Style Questions New

IB DP Biology 2025 Exam Style Questions with Solutions For HL and SL Syllabus are arranged by New Syllabus Topics 

• IB DP Biology 2025 HL
• IB DP Biology 2025 SL

IB Biology Study Notes New

IB DP Biology Study Notes are Organized by New Syllabus and New Exam Pattern.  These Notes includes essential terms and labeled visuals.

• IB DP Biology Study notes

IB Biology Flashcards New

IB DP Biology 2025 Revision Resources has flashcards with core concepts , Key terms added with diagram and visuals to ace IB Biology exam.

• IB Biology SL Flashcards
• IB Biology HL Flashcards

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