specification overview
Cambridge IGCSE (9-1) Biology (0970) is a linear qualification with a Core route (grades 5-1) and Extended route (grades 9-1). Candidates sit three of six papers: a multiple-choice paper (1 or 2), a theory paper (3 or 4), and either a practical test (Paper 5) or an alternative-to-practical paper (Paper 6). Graded on the 9-1 scale.
subject content
1. Characteristics and classification of living organisms
All papers- Characteristics of living organisms
- Concept and use of a classification system
2. Organisation of the organism
All papers- Cell structure and organisation
- Levels of organisation, size of specimens
3. Movement into and out of cells
All papers- Diffusion, osmosis, active transport
4. Biological molecules
All papers- Carbohydrates, fats and proteins
- Water and tests for biological molecules
5-9. Enzymes, plant nutrition, human nutrition, transport in plants and animals
All papers- Enzymes and factors affecting enzyme action
- Plant nutrition; human nutrition and digestion
- Transport in plants and animals
10-15. Diseases and immunity, gas exchange, respiration, excretion, coordination and response, drugs
All papers- Gas exchange, respiration and excretion
- Coordination and response; drugs
16-21. Reproduction, inheritance, variation and selection, organisms and environment, human influences, biotechnology
All papers- Inheritance and variation; selection and evolution
- Organisms and their environment; biotechnology; human influences on ecosystems
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Multiple Choice, Core) | Core content | 45m | 40 | 30% | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Paper 2 (Multiple Choice, Extended) | Extended content | 45m | 40 | 30% | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Paper 3 (Theory, Core) | Core content | 1h 15m | 80 | 50% | Short-answer and structured questions |
| Paper 4 (Theory, Extended) | Extended content | 1h 15m | 80 | 50% | Short-answer and structured questions |
| Paper 5 (Practical Test) | Practical skills | 1h 15m | 40 | 20% | Practical test (school lab-based) |
| Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical) | Practical skills tested on paper | 1h | 40 | 20% | Written questions on practical scenarios |
Core route candidates sit Papers 1, 3 and 5 or 6 (grades 5-1). Extended route candidates sit Papers 2, 4 and 5 or 6 (full 9-1 range). Your school picks Paper 5 (hands-on) or Paper 6 (written alternative).
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Knowledge and understanding of biological facts, principles and concepts. | 50% |
| AO2 | Handling information and problem solving, including data interpretation. | 30% |
| AO3 | Experimental skills and investigations. | 20% |
higher vs foundation
| Aspect | Foundation tier | Higher tier |
|---|---|---|
| Grades available | Core: 5-1 | Extended: full 9-1 range |
| Papers | Papers 1 (MCQ) + 3 (theory) + 5 or 6 | Papers 2 (MCQ) + 4 (theory) + 5 or 6 |
| Content depth | Core content only | Core + Extended (supplementary) content |
key tips for success
Practise MCQ pace
Papers 1 and 2 are 40 questions in 45 minutes: just under 70 seconds per question. Practise timing early.
Choose Paper 5 or 6 carefully
Paper 5 is a real practical test, needs lab access. Paper 6 is an alternative-to-practical written paper. Your school picks based on facilities.
Learn Core vs Extended content distinctions
The syllabus marks supplementary content clearly. Extended-tier students need everything; Core-tier students only need the core.
Master diagram labels
Cell structure, digestive system, heart, nephron, plant tissues, practise labelling under time pressure.
Build a definition bank
Cambridge rewards precise biological definitions (osmosis, active transport, homeostasis, natural selection). Learn word-for-word from the syllabus.
Practise past papers
CIE IGCSE past papers are widely available. Do timed practice at least monthly through the course.
Where to next
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