IGCSE Biology

IGCSE Biology – Typical Exam Questions, Examples and Answers

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Biology test

typically assesses students on a wide range of biological concepts and principles. The
questions in an IGCSE Biology test paper can be categorized into various types, each
designed to evaluate different skills and knowledge levels. Here is an overview of the
different types of questions commonly found in an IGCSE Biology test:

1. Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):

• These questions present a stem followed by several options, and
students must choose the correct answer.
• Assess basic knowledge and understanding of facts, definitions, and
concepts.
2. Structured Questions:
• Require short, concise responses to specific prompts or tasks.
• Often assess knowledge and understanding of specific topics, as well as
the ability to apply information.
3. Data-Based Questions:
• Involve interpreting and analyzing data presented in tables, graphs, or
diagrams.
• Assess skills related to data interpretation, drawing conclusions, and
making predictions based on provided information.
4. Matching Questions:
• Require students to match items from two lists based on their
relationships or characteristics.
• Test knowledge of specific terms and concepts.
5. Diagram-Based Questions:
• Involve labeling or annotating diagrams, charts, or illustrations.
• Assess understanding of structures, processes, and relationships.
6. Longer Answer/Essay Questions:
• Demand more extended responses, often requiring students to explain
concepts, discuss processes, or evaluate information.
• Assess the ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively and in-
depth understanding of the subject matter.
7. Experimental Design Questions:
• Pose scenarios where students must design experiments, identify
variables, and predict outcomes.
• Evaluate the application of scientific methodology and experimental
skills.
8. Application-Based Questions:
• Present real-life scenarios or case studies and require students to apply
biological concepts to solve problems or make decisions.
• Assess the ability to apply knowledge in practical situations.
9. Critical Thinking/Analysis Questions:

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• Require students to analyze information critically, evaluate arguments, or

discuss the implications of biological principles.
• Test higher-order thinking skills and the ability to synthesize information.
10. Extended Response Questions:
• May involve a combination of different question types within a single
scenario.
• Assess a range of skills, including knowledge application, critical
thinking, and effective communication.

IGCSE Biology test papers aim to provide a comprehensive evaluation of students'

understanding of biological concepts, their ability to apply knowledge, and their
scientific reasoning skills. The inclusion of various question types ensures a well-
rounded assessment of students' proficiency in the subject.

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Worked Examples

1. Multiple-Choice Question:
• Question: What is the function of the chloroplast in plant cells?
• A) Cellular respiration
• B) Photosynthesis
• C) Protein synthesis
• D) Mitosis
• Answer: B) Photosynthesis
2. Structured Question:
• Question: Explain the process of osmosis in plant cells.
• Answer: Osmosis is the movement of water molecules from an area of
higher water concentration to an area of lower water concentration
through a selectively permeable membrane. In plant cells, this process is
essential for maintaining turgor pressure and supporting cell structure.
3. Data-Based Question:
• Question: Refer to the graph below. What relationship can you observe
between temperature and enzyme activity?
[Graph depicting enzyme activity vs. temperature]
• Answer: Enzyme activity typically increases with temperature until
reaching an optimal point, after which it rapidly declines due to
denaturation.
4. Matching Question:
• Question: Match the following organelles with their functions:
• i) Mitochondria
• ii) Endoplasmic reticulum
• iii) Golgi apparatus
• a) Protein synthesis
• b) Energy production
• c) Modifying and packaging proteins
• Answer: i-b, ii-a, iii-c
5. Diagram-Based Question:
• Question: Label the parts of the flower in the diagram below.
[Diagram of a flower]
• Answer: (Labels may include: petal, sepal, stigma, style, ovary, anther,
filament)
6. Longer Answer/Essay Question:
• Question: Discuss the process of DNA replication, highlighting its
significance in cellular function.
• Answer: DNA replication is the process by which a cell duplicates its
DNA to produce two identical copies. This occurs during the S phase of
the cell cycle. The significance of DNA replication lies in the accurate
transmission of genetic information to daughter cells during cell division,
ensuring genetic continuity and the ability to pass on traits to subsequent
generations.

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7. Experimental Design Question:

• Question: Design an experiment to investigate the effect of light intensity
on the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants.
• Answer: (A suitable experiment might involve varying the distance of a
light source from the plants, measuring the oxygen production as an
indicator of photosynthetic rate.)
8. Application-Based Question:
• Question: Explain how antibiotic resistance develops in bacterial
populations and its implications for medical treatment.
• Answer: Antibiotic resistance arises through the natural selection of
bacteria with genetic variations that confer resistance to antibiotics.
Overuse or misuse of antibiotics accelerates this process. The
implications include reduced effectiveness of antibiotics in treating
infections, posing a significant challenge to medical treatment.
9. Critical Thinking/Analysis Question:
• Question: Evaluate the ethical considerations associated with genetic
engineering in humans.
• Answer: Ethical considerations in genetic engineering involve concerns
about privacy, consent, and potential unintended consequences.
Balancing the benefits and risks is crucial to ensure responsible and
ethical use of genetic technologies.
10. Extended Response Question:
• Question: Discuss the role of feedback mechanisms in maintaining
homeostasis in the human body, using examples.
• Answer: Feedback mechanisms play a crucial role in maintaining internal
balance (homeostasis) in the body. Negative feedback loops, such as
those regulating body temperature or blood glucose levels, involve
sensors detecting deviations from the set point and effectors acting to
counteract these changes, restoring equilibrium. Positive feedback, like
blood clotting, amplifies responses but is typically limited to specific
physiological processes.