Understand the IB Biology Curriculum

The IB Biology syllabus consists of Core Topics, Higher Level (HL) Topics, and Optional Topics. Knowing the syllabus well is crucial—print it out or save a copy for easy reference.

Core Topics (SL HL)

1. Cell Biology (e.g., organelles, membranes, cell division)

2. Molecular Biology (e.g., DNA replication, proteins, enzymes)

3. Genetics (e.g., inheritance, gene mutations)

4. Ecology (e.g., food chains, ecosystems, sustainability)

5. Evolution Biodiversity (e.g., natural selection, cladistics)

6. Human Physiology (e.g., digestion, circulation, gas exchange)

 Additional HL Topics

7. Nucleic Acids Metabolism

8. Plant Biology

9. Genetics Evolution

10. Animal Physiology

  Option Topics (SL HL)

• Neurobiology Behavior

• Biotechnology Bioinformatics

• Ecology Conservation

• Human Physiology

  Suggestion:

• Before you start studying a new topic, refer to the syllabus to see what IB expects you to learn.

• Use IB command terms (e.g., "Describe," "Explain," "Compare") to guide how you study and answer questions.

Effective Study Techniques

A. Use the IB Biology Guide

• Download the official IB Biology Subject Guide and study the learning objectives.

• Identify key themes and overlaps (e.g., enzyme function in molecular biology and digestion).

? Suggestion:

• Create a syllabus checklist and tick off topics once you’ve reviewed them thoroughly.

• Review your class notes daily to avoid last-minute cramming.

? B. Make Concise Notes

• Summarize each topic with mind maps, flowcharts, and tables.

• Use color coding to differentiate concepts (e.g., enzymes = green, DNA processes = blue).

• Include labeled diagrams (e.g., nephron, chloroplast, circulatory system).

Suggestion:

• Teach someone else—explaining a concept to a friend improves retention.

• Write out summary notes in your own words to improve understanding.

C. Active Recall Spaced Repetition

• Use flashcards (Anki, Quizlet) to memorize definitions, diagrams, and processes.

• Apply spaced repetition (revise older topics regularly, not just new ones).

Suggestion:

• Create a question bank—write out key questions for each topic and quiz yourself.

• Use Feynman’s Technique: Explain complex topics in the simplest way possible.

D. Practice Past Papers Questions

• Solve past IB Biology exam questions and check against the mark schemes.

• Focus on data-based and experimental questions—they frequently appear in exams.

• Identify common errors and make a list of tricky questions.

Suggestion:

• Time yourself when doing past paper questions to improve exam speed.

• Join IB Biology study groups to discuss answers and clarify doubts.

E. Understand Data-Based Experimental Questions

• Learn how to interpret graphs, tables, and trends in biology.

• Practice calculations (e.g., magnification formula, chi-square test).

Suggestion:

• Always include units in calculations—this is a common mistake in IB Biology exams.

• Practice sketching graphs—many questions require you to plot data.

F. Use Online Resources Visual Learning

• Watch video explanations (Amoeba Sisters, CrashCourse, Khan Academy).

• Use IB-specific websites (e.g., BioNinja, Pearson, InThinking).

Suggestion:

• Combine visuals with notes—draw diagrams alongside written explanations.

• Rewatch difficult concepts before moving on to a new topic.

Mastering Practical Work IA (Internal Assessment)

• Learn how to structure a strong IA (Introduction, Method, Data Analysis, Conclusion).

• Be comfortable with key practical experiments (e.g., osmosis, enzyme activity).

• Understand statistical tests used in IA (e.g., t-test, standard deviation).

Suggestion:

• Write your IA in a step-by-step manner—start early and refine over time.

• Check the IB Biology IA rubric to ensure you meet all criteria.

Exam Strategy

• Paper 1 (MCQs) – Be familiar with common question formats.

• Paper 2 (Short Long Answer) – Answer using concise and precise scientific language.

• Paper 3 (Options Data Analysis) – Choose your option wisely and practice interpreting data.

Suggestion:

• Start with the questions you find easiest to build confidence in the exam.

• Don’t leave questions blank—even partial answers can earn marks.

Recommended Resources

Best IB Biology Textbooks:

• Pearson IB Biology (Highly Recommended)

• Oxford IB Biology Course Companion

• Cambridge IB Biology Study Guide

Top Online Study Platforms:

• BioNinja – https://ib.bioninja.com.au (Free notes diagrams)

• IB Biology Tutoring- https://ibelitetutor.com/ib-biology-tutors/

• Khan Academy – https://www.khanacademy.org (Great for understanding concepts)

• InThinking Biology – Paid resource but very detailed.

Where to Get Past Papers Mark Schemes:

• IB Documents – https://ibdocuments.com

• IB Questionbank (if available at your school)

Suggestion:

• Organize your resources in one place—keep all PDFs and notes easily accessible.

• Use a study planner to track revision and exam preparation.

Final Advice: Stay Consistent Avoid Cramming!

IB Biology is a marathon, not a sprint.

• Stay disciplined with a regular study schedule.

• Practice retrieval daily to avoid forgetting information.

• Ask for help when needed—don’t hesitate to clarify doubts with teachers or peers.