GCE 710 BIOLOGY SYLLABUS by Sir Lesley 2022

Advanced Level REGULATIONS AND SYLLABUSES 710 Biology
710 BIOLOGY curled from the GCE Syllabus by Sir Lesley (sirmklesley@gmail.com)
1. Aims
The syllabus aims to:
a. develop an understanding of biological facts and principles based upon the
knowledge of living organisms and their environment;
b. stimulate an attitude of curiosity and scientific enquiry;
c. perform useful educational function for candidates not intending to study Biology
at higher levels by being complete in itself; and
d. prepare candidates for university and other educational institutions.
In following this syllabus. candidates should be aware that Biology is not to be studied in
isolation; it should be related, in the widest sense, to the needs of people. Relevant and
important aspects of modern life should be stressed. This should include an appreciation of
impact of biotechnology, the position of human beings in the biosphere and their effects
upon it.
2. General Objectives
a. Give the candidates an understanding of the biological principles and concepts that
underlie:
i. the structure and functions of biological systems of organisms; and
ii. the interrelationships of organisms and their interaction with their environment,
using examples relevant to Cameroon.
b. Demonstrate through laboratory experiments and field observations the application of
biological knowledge in problem solving.
c. Introduce concepts in modern Biology which can be developed further at a higher
educational level.
3. Assessment Objectives
The examination will test the following attributes:
A. Knowledge:
i. identify, recall and express knowledge of biological facts, terms, principles,
concepts, relationships, experimental techniques etc; and
ii. construct diagrams of biological systems.
B. Comprehension
i. communicate a knowledge and understanding of Biology through the media of tables,
charts, graphs, diagrams and concise logical prose; and
ii. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of appropriate practical techniques and
safety precautions.
C. Application:
constructing hypotheses, designing experiments, making and recording accurate
observations and interpreting results.
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2022 CAMEROON GCE BOARD REGULATIONS AND SYLLABUSES
D. Analysis:
applying a knowledge of biology to solve problems, including those of personal, social,
economic and technological nature.
E. Synthesis:
i. select and organise information relevant to particular ideas in Biology and communicate
them coherently.
F. Evaluation: indicate the social and environmental implications and economic technological
applications in modern Biology.
4. The Examination Structure:
The examination will consist of two theory papers and one practical test: Paper 1&2, and
Paper 3 weighted as follows:
Paper Type Maximum Weighting Duration Number of questions
mark
1 MCQ 50 33% 1 ½ hours 50 compulsory questions
2 Theory 100 33% 3 hours 8 to answer 5
Practical 100 34% 3 hours All questions shall be
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Examination compulsory
Paper 1 (Theory) – 1 ½ hours (Multiple Choice - 50 Questions for 100 marks)

This paper will consist of fifty Multiple Choice Questions. The paper will assess the
coverage of the whole syllabus in terms of the subject aims and objectives.
Paper 2 (Theory-Essay) ~3 hours for a maximum of 100 marks.

This paper is designed to test candidates in depth knowledge of the topics in the syllabus
and their ability to communicate ideas logically and coherently. Emphasis will be laid on
local examples in Cameroon.
Diagrams should be included only if they are strictly relevant and integrated into the text of
the answer.
There will be a choice of five out of eight questions. Each question will carry 20 marks.
Paper 3 (Practical test)- 3 hours for 100 marks.

The practical examination will have no choice of questions, and will cover a range of
practical skills and abilities. Particular emphasis will be put on the ability to make and record
observations precisely, making effective use of a hand lens and the low and high power of
a microscope where appropriate. One question will usually involve a simple physiological
experiment. Vertebrate dissections will be standard. Questions might include the following
topics although not all in the same test;
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a. Identification and classification of the organisms listed in Section 1.4 of the syllabus:
Organisms and the variety of life.
b. Examination of whole organisms, or part of them (e.g. mammalian bones, flowers,
arthropod limbs), to identify features of biological significance, particularly the
relation between the form of a structure and its function, and accurately recording
these observations by means of annotated drawings or brief scientific comments,
c. Construction and use of simple dichotomous keys to distinguish between several
related specimens (e.g. flowers, leaves, variety of organisms, mammalian bones).
d. A simple physiological experiment (e.g. water relations of plant cells, food test,
investigation of enzyme activity, determining the rate of heartbeat and of breathing
in an invertebrate). Candidates may be asked to follow instructions or design an
appropriate experiment, comment on apparatus or experiments set up as
demonstrations, report precisely on the method, make accurate observations and
present results in tables or graphs where appropriate, interpret the results and make
deductions from them, comment on the validity of the method and reliability of the
results, and relate the experiment and its results to the underlying biological
principles.
e. Examination, interpretation and drawing of prepared microscope slides, photograph
transparencies, and simple temporary slide preparations prepared by the candidate.
Specimen material may need to be treated with stains such as aniline chloride,
acetocarmine, iodine, methylene blue or phloroglucinol.
f. An animal dissection.
The dissection will be limited either to a small vertebrate such as the fish, toad or
frog, chicken, rat, guinea pig, rabbit or mammalian organs such as eye, heart or
kidney.
g. The dissection may be based on a general dissection to display the main organs; a
display of the alimentary canal and associated structures, the arterial and venous
systems of the neck and thorax, the urinary or reproductive system. Knowledge other
than that which can be extrapolated from the candidate’s experience in dissecting
will not be required.
5. Practical notebooks.
All candidates must have a complete record of their own practical course work in the
laboratory and in the field. Each practical exercise must be assessed by the candidate’s
practical teacher and at the end of the course an average grade awarded in the front page of
the candidate’s notebook. Candidates must bring their original practical notebooks, certified
by their teacher, to the practical test, for final inspection and grading by the local examiners.
Candidates must use only practical notebooks that are approved by the Board.
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N.B.: The total Practical Examination mark will include marks from the Practical Notebook
and field work.
6. Mathematical Skills.
Questions set in the examination may involve the use of the ordinary processes of arithmetic,
including the calculation and use of means, decimal, ratios, proportions, volumes, areas,
reciprocals and percentages. Candidates should be able to construct simple graphs including
choice of axes, comment on the significance of their shapes and calculate rates.
Candidates should also have an appreciation of variation and probability levels and the use
of standard deviation and chi-square test in drawing valid conclusions from limited data.
(Calculations of standard deviation will not be set).
An electronic calculator and four figure tables may be used in papers 2 and 3 of the
examination only (See Regulation 22). It is recommended that candidates have available a
calculator with at least the following keys:
+, -, ÷, x2, √x, %
Questions will be set in SI units (see General Information).
7. The Syllabus Content

The following syllabus is set out in sections with the main headings in the left hand column
and further amplification or detail is given on the right. It is not intended that the sections
should be mutually exclusive or necessarily in teaching order. Concepts developed in one
section should be carried over into the teaching of other sections; Cross-references are
included where appropriate. Although the structures and functions of organisms are
subdivided in the syllabus, the fact that they are parts and activities of whole plants and
animals should be stressed throughout. Unless specifically stated, details of chemical
structure or of biochemical reactions are not required.
It is envisaged that teaching will include demonstrations and experiments, and that studies
of structure (by dissection where indicated, by demonstrations, microscopic preparations
and other means) should be undertaken wherever they clarify the functional problem being
studied.
Great importance is attached to practical work in the field and laboratory and it should be
encouraged as Much as possible. Whenever possible, candidates should study living
organisms and have knowledge of their habitats.
1. LEVELS OF ORGANIZATION
The organization of living systems into different structural and functional levels, with named
appreciation of the relative sizes and shapes of molecules is expected, but details of chemical
structure are not required.
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Topic/Subtopic Notes
1.1 Molecules
The chemical nature, general
formula and biological
significance of the following
1.1.1 Carbohydrates
a. Monosaccharides Hexoses (glucose, fructose), pentoses and trioses,
b. Disaccharides Sucrose and Maltose
c. Polysaccharides Starch, glycogen and cellulose.
1.1.2 Lipids Lipids as storage compounds. Phospholipids as components
of membranes.
1.1.3 Proteins Amino acids, peptide linkages and polypeptide chains.
Amino acid sequence and its potential for generating an
infinite variety in protein structure. Fibrous and globular
proteins; conjugated proteins. Dependence of the three
dimensional shape of proteins on amino acid sequence and
further bonding. Chemical tests for the following should be
known: reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, starch, lipids
and proteins.
1.1.4 Nucleotides and nucleic The mononucleotide adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the
acids dinucleotide nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD),
and polynucleotides ribonucleic acid (RNA) and
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), including the role of
hydrogen bonding in base pairing. Outline structure of
DNA sufficient to understand replication.
1.2 Cells and organelles. The A bacterium, a chlorenchyma cell, a liver cell and a
organization of prokaryotic neurone, as revealed by both light and cells, electron
cells and eukaryotic cells, and microscopy. Nucleus, nucleolus, endoplasmic reticulum,
their organelles. chloroplast (section2.2), mitochondria (section2.3),
ribosomes (section 2.4.4), Golgi complex and
microtubules,
1.3 Tissues and Organs: The The following tissues should be studied with the aid of a
concept of tissues and organs light microscope.
structure and functional units.
1.3.1 Plant Tissues Parenchyma, collenchyma, sclerenchyma, xylem and
phloem flowering plants.
1.3.2 Animal Tissues Simple squamous, cuboidal, columnar and stratified
epithelia, and the histology of compact bone in mammals;
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The detailed of single muscle fibre, as revealed by both light
and electron microscopy.
1.3.3 Organs Liver, Kidney, skin, heart, eye, ear, brain, testis, ovary and
lungs.
1.4 Organisms and Variety This should be developed in relation to a typical flowering
of life. plant and mammal, with reference to sections 2 to 5.
The concept of a whole
organism.
1.4.1 Principles of Classification should refer only to each major group
Classification. (phylum) and main subgroup (class). Economic and
Variety of life, An ecological importance of organisms should be noted. Larval
appreciation of grades of and adult forms should be studied for organisms marked. *
organisation and f taxonomic
positions of the following
major groups: the general
diagnostic features of the
groups with emphasis on the
external features of each of the
organisms listed in relation to
its environment and mode of
life.
1.4.2 Viruses Structure, transmission and replication e.g. HIV.
1.4.3 Prokaryotae (Monera) Bacteria structures, types, replication. Applications in
Biotechnology.
1.4.4 Protoctista
a. Algae Unicellular, filamentous and colonial green algae and a
b. Protozoans parenchymatous brown alga.
A Rhizopod, Ciliate, Euglena and Plasmodium.
1.4.5 Fungi
a. Zygomycota Bread mould, Mucor
b. Ascomycota Yeast
c. Basidiomycota Mushroom
1.4.6 Plantae
a. Bryophyta A moss and a liverwort
b. Filicinophyta A fern
c. Lycopodophyta Lycopodium and Sellaginella
d. Coniferophyta A cypress and whispering pine.
e. Angiospermophyta Structure (morphology) of a dicotyledonous tree,
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a herbaceous dicotyledon and monocotyledon.
Floral morphology of a polyetalous dicot, a sympetalous
dicotyledon and a liliaceous monocotyledon.
1.5.1 Animalia (Animals)
a. Cnidaria (Coelenterates) Hydra, Obelia, Jellyfish, Sea Anemone and Coral.
b. Platyheminthes (flat / A planarian, a tapeworm, and a liver fluke.
worms)
c. Nematoda (Round worm) Ascaris, Trichinella, Schistosoma
d. Annelida (Round / An earthworm, a rag worm (Nereid).
segmented worms)
e. Arthropoda:
- Malacostraca A decapod, wood louse
- Branchiopoda Water flea,
- Insecta Locust or grasshopper, butterfly or moth, a honey bee,
housefly, fruit fly, mosquito, dragon fly, beetles, cockroach.
- Arachnida A spider, a scorpion and tarantula.
- Diplopoda Millipede.
- Chilopoda Centipede
f. Mollusca A gastropod, a bivalve and a cephalopod.
g. Echinodermata A star fish, sea urchin, brittle star.
h. Chordata:
- Fishes:
o Condrichthyes, A cartilaginous fish e.g. dog fish., Ray or skate
o Osteichthyes A bony fish e.g. Tilapia
- Tetrapods (Four footed
animals):
 Amphibia A frog and toad.
 Reptilia. A lizard
 Aves A bird
 Mammalia A rodent, a herbivore, a carnivore.
2. METABOLISM
Metabolism in the chemical balance of the whole organism. The concepts of:
i. the anabolism of food molecules in autotrophs using carbon dioxide and light energy;
ii. the anabolism of cellular components from smaller organic molecules and, the
energy derived from the catabolism of larger food molecules; and
iii. the balance between anabolism and catabolism in the cell
Outlines only of biochemical processes are required.
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2.1 Enzymes
2.1.1 Roles in simple The range of enzyme activities illustrated by hydrolases,
reactions and pathways. dehydrogenases, phosphorylases and polymerases.
2.1.2 Specificity and the Enzymes as catalysts that undergo changes in shape during
concept of active sites the reactions that they effect and which resume their shape
upon completion.
2.1.3 Location of enzymes Enzymes in solution in the cell, fixed on membranes or
secreted into external substrates.
2.1.4 Control of a pathway, Inhibition: competitive, non-competitive, and affecting
factors affecting enzyme enzyme activity feedback inhibition of a pathway.
activity Experimental work should include a study of the effects of
temperature, pH, enzyme concentration and specificity
using amylase, sucrase (invertase), dehydrogenases and
catalase.
2.2. Photosynthesis
2.2.1 Chloroplasts and The double membrane, stroma and lamella structure.
chloroplast pigments. Absorption and action spectra.
2.2.2 Light dependent Production of reduced coenzyme and ATP
reaction Evolution of oxygen. The role of the electron carriers and
NADP.
2.2.3 Light independent Fixation of carbon dioxide onto a 5C compound to give
reaction (Dark reactions) phosphoglyceric acid; use of the products of the light
reaction to convert this to carbohydrate and to regenerate
the 5C compound.
2.3 Cellular respiration

2.3.1 Outline and significance Generalised action of a dehydrogenase enzyme in such a
of glycolysis pathway with a coenzyme such as NAD acting as a
hydrogen acceptor.
Fermentation to ethanol by yeast cells.
Formation of lactic acid in muscle tissue.
The concept of oxygen debt in relation to muscular
activity in a mammal.
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2.3.2 Conversion of pyruvic Regeneration of NAD from NADH2. To ethanol by yeast
acid coupled with cells.
regeneration of oxidised
coenzyme.
2. 3. 3 Conversion of pyruvic Outline of the TCA cycle without detail of the compounds
acid in the tricarboxylic acid in the cycle or of individual reactions.
(TCA) cycle.
2.3.4 Significance of the TCA Role of electron transport systems in absorption of
cycle oxygen, noting the involvement of cytochromes.
Formation of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation.
The TCA cycle as a metabolic hub into which
macromolecules may be degraded and which provides
reducing power to the electron transport system and small
organic molecules for biosynthesis. Entry of fats as fatty
acids converted to a 2C compound. Entry of proteins as
amino acids converted to organic acids.
2.3.5 The mitochondrion as Outline structure of a liver mitochondrion: the inner and
the site of TCA cycle and the the outer membranes, and inter-membranal space
Electron transport systems. Location of enzymes and electron transport systems.
2.3.6 Role of ATP in the cell.
2.4. Biosynthesis of proteins

2.4.1 Formation of amino Reduction of absorbed nitrate requiring reducing power.
acids in plants. Combination of reduced nitrogen compounds with organic
acids from the cycle to form amino acids. An appreciation
that the reducing power of organic acids originates from
catabolism.
2.4.2 Amino acid formation Outline of nitrogen fixation, as shown by Rhizobium
in leguminous plants plants in root nodules of leguminous plants and its
economic importance.
2.4.3 Sources of amino acids (Section 3.3)
in mammals
2.4.4 Protein synthesis from Roles of DNA, Messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA
amino acids. (tRNA), the ribosomes and ATP
(Sections 1.1 & 3.2)
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2.5. Waste products of metabolism
2.5.1 The origin and removal Ethanol in yeast cells, ammonia in fresh water teleosts and
of potentially toxic products urea in mammals. (Section 3.5)
of metabolism.
2.5.2 Detoxification in the Deamination and the ornithine cycle should be studied in
liver outline only.
3. EXCHANGE AND TRANSPORT

The processes by which materials enter and leave cells and organisms as a result of
metabolism. The concepts of molecular movement and mass flow of materials within
organisms, and the sources of motive power for mass flow. Water as the essential medium
in which exchange and transport is effected.
3.1 Exchange of water, ions, Osmosis and concept of water potential, stressing the idea
and large molecules by cells that water flows from high to low water potential, that is
towards the more negative potential.
3.1.1 Water relations of cells. Questions set on this topic will assume a knowledge of
water potential terminology.
3.1.2 Water relations of Plasmolysis of cells, and changes in tissues size and
Parenchymotous tissues in tensions should be investigated experimentally
green plants. (Section 4.6.1).
3.1.3 Exchange of ions and the Diffusion, passive, facilitated and active uptake,
molecules by cells endocytosis and exocytosis.
3.2 Autotrophic nutrition in (Section 2.2) Net intake of carbon dioxide and output of
green plants - oxygen (section 3.3).
Photosynthesis
3.2.1 Factors affecting the rate Practical work should include photosynthesis in water
of photosynthesis, and thus the plants measured by the use of bubbles and indicators.
accumulation of biomass.
3.2.2 Mineral nutrition Roles of Nitrate, Phosphate, Iron, calcium Magnesium,
Sulphate, potassium, Molybdate Fluorine, Chlorine,
Copper, sulphur.
3.2.3 Formation of amino (Section 2.4)
acids in plants
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3.3. Heterotrophic nutrition in mammals.
3.3.1 The acquisition of Carbohydrates, lipids and proteins (Section 1.1).
organic compounds from food.
3.3.2 The concept of essential Roles of phosphate, iron, calcium, magnesium,
nutrients, essential amino potassium, sodium and iodine.
acids and fatty acids, Essential Roles of the following vitamins: A (retinol), B1,
ion Vitamins (thiamine), B2, (riboflavin), PP factor (nicotinic acid), C
(ascorbic acid), D (calciferol) and K.
3.3.3 Holozoic nutrition Mastication and movement of food along the gut; sources
Ingestion, Physical and and activity of the major digestive secretions.
chemical digestion
3.3.4 Nutrition in saprophytes Origin of food from another living organism, as shown by
a saprophytic fungus and a bacterium.
3.3.5 Nutrition in parasites Origin of food from another living organism, as shown by
an adult liver fluke, tapeworm and named parasitic fungus
and dodder. The economic importance of these plant and
animal parasites. Life cycles are not required.
3.4. Gaseous exchange between an organism and its environment.

3.4.1 Intake of oxygen and
output of carbon dioxide as a
result of respiration
3.4.2 Properties of respiration A terrestrial insect, a fish and a mammal.
/ surfaces
3.4.3 Ventilation movements A terrestrial insect, a fish and a mammal.
Practical work should include:
- the use of simple respirometers and indicators,
- measurements of ventilation movements in a suitable
insect, and
- dissection of the thorax of a small mammal.. The
balance between the gases exchanged in respiration and
photosynthesis. (Section 2.3 and 2.2).
3.4.4 Intake of carbon dioxide The balance between the gases exchanged in respiration
and output of oxygen as a and photosynthesis (section 2.3 and 2.2)
result of photosynthesis. Roles
of stomata and lenticels.
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The significance of gas
exchange
Interactions between green
plants and other organisms.
3.5 Water output

3.5.1 Transportation in Evaporation of water from leaf cells into leaf air spaces
flowering plants and roles of stomata (transiratin).
Practical work should include: simple methods of
demonstrating and measuring transpiration, the estimation
of numbers of stomata.
3.5.2 Water loss and salt Osmoregulation in a fresh water protozoan, terrestrial
balance in animals insect, a fresh water teleost fish and a mammal
3.5.3 The functions of the Water output and excretion by the kidney of waste
mammalian kidney and products of metabolism. (Section 1.3 and 2.5).
nephron
3.6 Transport in Flowering Plants

3.6.1 Movement of water and Structure and transport function of xylem tissue
ions. (Section 1.3).
The transpiration stream.
Passage of water through the root hairs and root cortex,
and role of the endodermis, apoplastic and symplastic
pathways.
Cohesion/ adhesion tension theory of sap movement in
the xylem.
Evaporation into leaf air space and atmosphere
(Section 3.4).
3.6.2 Movement of organic Structure and function of phloem tissue (Section 1.3).
molecules The transport in phloem sieve tubes of organic
compounds in solution from sites of synthesis or storage
to sites of use or storage.
Evidence acquired by the use of radioactive tracers and
aphids.
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3.7. Transport in Mammals
3.7.1 Blood as a transport Transport of nutrients, waste products, respiratory gases
medium and hormones.
Dissociation curves of haemoglobin and the Bohr effect.
3.7.2 The structure and Cardiac cycle; myogenic stimulation, and the spread of
functioning of the heart and the impulse across the heart, the nervous and hormonal
blood vessels control of the rate of heart beat.
3.7.3 Circulation of the blood Practical work should include the identification of the
following blood vessels in a dissection of a small
mammals: pulmonary artery and vein, dorsal aorta, renal
artery and vein, venae cavae and hepatic portal vein.
3.7.4 Tissue fluid and lymph The interchange od materials between capillary beds and
the tissue fluid; the passage of fluid into the lymphatic
vessels and blood.
4. CONTROL, CO-ORDINATION AND RESPONSE

The reception of stimuli from the external and internal environments of animals and plants
contrasted. The mechanism by which overall regulation and co-ordination of metabolic
processes exchange and transport are achieved. Support and movement in animals and
plants compared and contrasted.
4.1 Nervous Co-ordination in Mammals
4.1.1 The nature and Neurone structure
transmission of nerve Concept of the resting potential on cell membranes,
impulses Depolarisation in neurones and the creation of action
potential (wave of depolarisation),
Refractory period.
All or nothing law.
4.1.2. Synaptic transmission The structure of a synaptic knob, and the means
By which the nerve impulse is transmitted across the
synapses.
Cholinergic and adrenergic synapses excitatory and
inhibitory synapses.
4.1.3 Organisation and Study of the brain should be restricted to its gross
functions of central nervous structure, and the functions of the cerebral hemispheres,
system and their functioning hypothalamus, cerebellum and medulla oblongata
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(Section 1.3).
The activity of the visual cortex.
4.1.4 Simple reflexes and their Spinal withdrawal reflex and a cranial reflex e.g. pupil
functioning reflex. The types of neurones involved in a spinal reflex.
4.1.5 The nature of receptors Spinal withdrawal reflex and a cranial reflex e.g. pupil
as transducers e.g. eye reflex. The types of neurones involved in a spinal reflex.
4.2. Hormonal control in Animals

4.2.1 The importance of
endocrine balance and the
concept of negative feedback.
4. 2.2 The roles of mammalian Insulin, glucagon and adrenaline.
hormones in the control of: Antidiuretic hormone and aldosterone (Section 3.4)
a. Blood sugar level Adrenaline (Section 3.7)
b. Kidney functioning Follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone,
c. Heartbeat oestrogen, progesterone, prolactin and oxytocin
d. Menstrual cycle (Section 5.3 functioning).
e. Digestion in mammals Example of photoperiodic behaviour in birds and
f. Photoperiodism mammals.
g. Metamorphosis in insects
and amphibians
4.3 Temperature regulation in animals

Ectothermy and endothermy Behavioural mechanisms in reptiles.
Structural, physiological and behavioural mechanisms in
mammals
4.4 Defence mechanisms in mammals

4.4.1 The role of blood The nature and importance of phagocytosis, antibodies
4.4.2 Immune system and the clotting of blood, antigen / antibody reaction,
4.4.3 Detoxification in the blood transfusions, role of antibody in medicines.
liver (Section 2.5).
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4.5. Support and movement in animals
4.5.1 The general Practical work should include a study of the limb bones
organisation of a Mammalian and vertebrae.
skeleton
4.5.1 The internal and These should be studied in relation to their functions in
external features of a long support (Section 1.3).
bone
4.5.3 The structure of a The structure of a muscle, and of a single muscle fibre.
synovial joint (Section 1.3)
Striated (skeletal) muscle
4.5.4 The mechanism of The ratchet mechanism involving myosin and actin
contraction in Striated muscle filaments.
filaments. The sequence of events by which contraction and
relaxation of the muscle fibres are brought about.
4.5.5 Dynamic relationships The roles of antagonistic muscles, bones, nerves and
between muscles and proprioceptors in bringing elbow.
skeletons
4.5.6 The exoskeleton of Properties and organisation of the exoskeleton and
insects muscles in relation to movement in an insect limb.
No detail of the cycle is required.
4.5.7 The hydrostatic The role of fluid in providing supports in animals.
skeleton of earthworms. Comparison with the endocrine system of mammals.
4.6. Control and response in flowering plants

4.6.1 The nature of hormonal
control in flowering plants.
4.6.2 The roles of hormones Auxins and gibberellins
in the control of stem Evidence for the action of hormones in the growth of
elongation coleoptiles.
Geotropism and phototropism in shoots.
Simple experiments on tropic responses and their
interpretation in terms of the redistribution of growth
hormones.
4.6.3 Photoperiodism Evidence for hormonal involvement in the photoperiodic
behaviour of flowering plant.
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4. 6.4 Support and movement Comparison of support and contrast of movement, with
mammal.
4. 6.5 Supporting tissues The structure of turgid parenchyma , and collenchyma,
sclerenchyma and xylem and their distribution in root,
stem and leaf in relation to their mechanical functions
(Sections 1.3, 3.1 and 3.6).
4.6.6 Tropisms Geotropism and phototropism in shoots.
4.6.7 Nastic movements Thermonasty of petals.
5. THE CONTINUITY OF LIFE

The growth and development of organisms and their reproduction.
Sexual reproduction as a process promoting both genetic continuity and the potential for
change.
The action of selection on genetic variation.
5.1 Cell Division
5.1.1 Structure of nucleus and Chromosomes should be considered as comprising DNA
chromosomes and associated proteins (Section 1.1).
5.1.2 Cell division in plants The process and significance of cell division and mitosis
and animals in the context of the cycle.
5.2 Growth and Development
5.2.1 The criteria of growth Increase in cell size and cell number.
5.2.2 Growth curves and Cell differentiation
patterns Increase in fresh and dry mass.
5.2.3 Growth in flowering Apical meristems as permanent embryonic tissues in
plants and mammals flowering plants.
contrasted. Cell division, elongation and differentiation.
Activity of vascular and cork cambia leading to increase in
girth.
Details of secondary thickening are not required.
The pattern of post-natal growth in mammals.
The pattern of post-natal growth in mammals.
5.3 Reproduction
5.3.1 Differences between Mechanisms for the transfer of gametes, and the
non-sexual and sexual achievement of fertilisation and dispersal should be
reproduction. considered.
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5.3.2 Life cycles of moss, Devices which encourage outbreeding in flowering plants.
fern, flowering plant and
obelia
5.3.3 Importance of haploidy Occurrence and significance of meiosis in the life cycles
and diploidy in life cycles. of organisms with reference to changes of numbers of
chromosomes
5.3.4 Sexual reproduction Transfer of gametes, fertilisation, functions of the
in humans. placenta, birth and parental care. The role of hormones in
reproduction (Section 4.2). Practical work should include
dissection of a small vertebrate to display the main parts of
the male and female urino-genital systems
5.3.5 The special case of viral Mode of invasion and replication of HIV. Consequences
replication of HIV infection.
5.4 Genes and Genetics
5.4.1 The particulate nature Concept of the gene.
of inheritance Genotype and phenotype.
5.4.2 Gene expression. One gene-one polypeptide theory (Section 2.4). Effects of
environment on the way in which genes are expressed,
with consideration of plant and animal examples.
5.4.3 The transmission of The process and significance of meiosis. The production
genetic material gametes. of new combinations of genetic material as a result of
crossing, random assortment and fertilisation.
5.4.4 Monohybrid inheritance Segregation of factors. Mendel’s first law. Alleles.
Dominance and incomplete dominance. Multiple alleles.
Examples of monohybrid inheritance in man.
5.4.5 Dihybrid inheritance Independent assortment of not more than two pairs of
alleles. Mendel’s second law.
Gene interaction. Epistasis, lethal genes
N.B. Use of probability theory in crosses is essential.
5.4.6 Linkage in autosomes
5.4.7 Sex determination in
mammals and sex linkage
5.4.8 Mutation Mutagenic agents
Gene mutation and chromosome mutation,
Polyploidy.
Implications of genetic engineering.
17
5.5 Genetic Change in a Population
5.5.1 Continuous and Mutation (Section 5 .3)
discontinuous variation. Role of meiosis (Section 5.3).
Sources of new inherited
variation.
5.5.2 Population genetics Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium as an ecological model.
Disturbance of the equilibrium possibly leading to
evolutionary change.
5.5.3 The concept of Natural and artificial selection (see notes).

evolution
5.5.4 Speciation Behavioural and geographical isolating mechanisms as
factors in evolutionary change and speciation. Importance
of polyploidy.
6. POPULATION BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY

The concept of populations and communities as structured groups of interbreeding
organisms. The interactions which may occur within populations, with organisms of other
populations or with other factors in the environment.
6.1 Populations and species
6.1.1 Growth and regulation The effects of birth, death, migration, predation and intra-
of population. and inter- competition.
6.2 Communities and ecosystems
6.2.1 Food chains, food webs Producers, consumers and decomposers. Pyramids of
and trophic levels numbers, biomass and energy.
6.2.2 The flow of energy The selection of the ecosystem is open.
through an ecosystem
6.2.3 The cycling of water, The study should consider the effects of such factors as
carbon, nitrogen and temperatures, water supply and light; the components of
phosphorus the particular type of soil or the nature of the substratum in
aquatic habits, and the interactions between the various
organisms.
6.2.4 The ecological concepts Experience is necessary for both the quantitative and
of succession and climax. qualitative techniques appropriate to the selected
A practical study of a specific ecosystem, but exhaustive lists of plants and animals are
ecosystem and the physical, not required.
18
edaphic biotic factors that
influence distribution of the
organisms within it.
6.2.5 The effect of human Nitrate as a pollutant of water supplies; Sulphur dioxide as
activities on a chosen a pollutant of the atmosphere.
ecosystem, with special
reference to conservation.
6.2.6 The effects of human
activities on the environment
7. BIOTECHNOLOGY
Emphasis should be on current concepts and techniques for biotechnology and genetic
engineering. Role of their application in modern life.
7.1 Modern and Traditional Biotechnology
7.1.1 An overview of a Outline of typical main steps to include: role of
biotechnological process fermenters, batch and continuous cultivation.
Operation and control of fermenters. Use of
biotechnological process in process of penicillin and single
cell protein (SCP) production.
7.1.2 Traditional Baking; beer and wine production, dairy products,
biotechnological process enzymes associated with food industry.
7.2 Genetic Engineering
7.2.1 Use of micro organisms Use and suitability
Role of plasmids.
7.2.2 Construction of Use of vectors e.g. plasmids, bacteriophages.
recombinant DNA molecule Role of restriction endonucleases, reverse transcriptase,
ligases etc
Transformation mechanisms (briefly treated) and cloning.
7.2.3 Application of genetic Human insulin, human growth hormone etc.
engineering Role in agriculture.
GMOs or transgenics.
Cleaning of oil spills, gasohol, biogas production, sewage
treatment, biodegradation of plastics.
Advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering.
19
8. Specific Requirements for the Subject
a. Practical work:
- practical notebook: this will contain plain sheets and graph paper.
- dissecting with all its components.
- a good soft HB pencil and a clean eraser.
- all other specimens as specified in the syllabus (no. 5 above)
b. Field work: - as specified in the syllabus, especially under ecology, environmental
studies and populations.
9. Textbooks and References:

SN Title Author Year of Publisher Town
Publication
1 Introduction to Advanced C.J. Clegg J. Murray
Biology.
2 Advanced Level Biology. W.D. Phillips 1989 Oxford Univ. London
& E. G. Press.
Chilton
3 Biological Science N. O. Green 1995 Cambridge London
(Third Edition). G. W Stout Univ. Press
D. J. Tajlor
4 Advanced Biology and C.J. Clegg and 2000 John Murray London
Principles and D.G. Mackean
Applications (Second
Edition).
5 Advanced Level Biology. Michael Kent. London
6 Guide to Dissection. H.G.O. J. Murray
Rowenti
7 Advanced Biology J.Simpson T.
(Third Edition). F. Williams
8 Understanding Biology GleenToole 1992 Stanley Thornes Hong
for Advanced level. and Susan Ltd Kong
Toole
9 Biology Concepts and Neil Campbell London
Connections. Jane B. Recce
Lawrence G
Michel
20
Martha P.
Taylor
10 Biology Laboratory for Derrick N 2000 Kumba
Manual for Sixth Forms. Akonumbo
James
Fointama
Margaret A.
Tita
11 Biology Advanced Level Ghogomu 2000 Kumba
Taxonomy. Nkonki-
Mbasho
12 Dictionary of Biology - M. Hick ham Penguin
New Edition.
21

GCE 710 BIOLOGY SYLLABUS by Sir Lesley 2022

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GCE 710 BIOLOGY SYLLABUS by Sir Lesley 2022

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Advanced Level REGULATIONS AND SYLLABUSES 710 Biology

Paper 1 (Theory) – 1 ½ hours (Multiple Choice - 50 Questions for 100 marks)

Paper 2 (Theory-Essay) ~3 hours for a maximum of 100 marks.

Paper 3 (Practical test)- 3 hours for 100 marks.

7. The Syllabus Content

2.3 Cellular respiration

2.4. Biosynthesis of proteins

3. EXCHANGE AND TRANSPORT

3.4. Gaseous exchange between an organism and its environment.

3.5 Water output

3.6 Transport in Flowering Plants

4. CONTROL, CO-ORDINATION AND RESPONSE

4.2. Hormonal control in Animals

4.3 Temperature regulation in animals

4.4 Defence mechanisms in mammals

4.6. Control and response in flowering plants

5. THE CONTINUITY OF LIFE

5.5.3 The concept of Natural and artificial selection (see notes).

6. POPULATION BIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY

9. Textbooks and References:

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