Biology - KS4

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At the heart of our GCSE Biology curriculum is a commitment to inspiring curiosity, deepening understanding, and developing scientific thinking. We equip students with the knowledge and skills to explore the living world, understand the processes that sustain life, and appreciate the impact of biology on society and the environment.

At SJB, students follow one of two science pathways: Combined Science or Separate Science (Triple Science). While both lead to GCSE qualifications, the Triple Science pathway offers a more rigorous and fast-paced curriculum, covering Biology, Chemistry and Physics as distinct GCSEs.

Student voice is valued in the decision-making process, and we actively listen to students’ aspirations, interests, and feedback. However, the final decision rests with the Curriculum Lead, who considers a range of factors including academic data, teacher insight, and student mindset. This ensures that each student is placed on the pathway that best supports their success, motivation, and long-term goals in science.

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

Qualification: Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9 - 1) in Biology (1BI0)

Edexcel GCSE Biology Specification

Science Curriculum Map

Science Catholic Social Teaching Principles

Science is a core subject and all students study it through to GCSE either by following the Combined Science pathway or the Separate Science pathway. Below you can find out more information about the Biology GCSE studied by those selected for the Separate Science pathway.

Students studying GCSE Biology as part of the Separate Science pathway will sit two written examination papers:

  • Paper 1: Topics 1–5
  • Paper 2: Topics 1, 6–9
  • Each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 50% of the final Biology grade, and includes a mix of multiple-choice, short answer, calculation, and extended response questions.

All exams are taken in the same exam series (May/June)

  • All students following the separate science pathway at SJB sit the Higher Tier: Grades 4–9
  • Calculators may be used in all science examinations.
What Skills Are Assessed?
  • Knowledge and understanding of biology – 40%
  • Application of scientific ideas and methods – 40%
  • Analysis and evaluation of data and experiments – 20%
Grade Awarded

  • Students receive one GCSE grade for Biology (e.g. 9, 8, 7).

  • This grade reflects the performance in biology only 

  • The grade ranges from 9 (highest) to 4 (lowest)

Paper Subect Topic
1 Biology 1 Key concepts in biology, cells and control, genetics, natural selection and genetic modification, and health, disease and the development of medicines.
2 Biology 2 Key concepts in biology, plant structures and their functions, animal coordination, control and homeostasis, exchange and transport in animals, and ecosystems and material cycles.

Students complete 8 core practicals in biology in addition to the other scientific practicals that we have built in to the curriculum.
Below are three examples of the core practicals that help students develop essential scientific skills and deepen their understanding of key biological concepts. These investigations are assessed through the final exams.

Antimicrobials and Microbial Cultures

Students test the effects of antiseptics or antibiotics on bacterial growth using aseptic techniques and agar plates, developing skills in microbiology and data analysis.

Food Tests

Students use chemical reagents to identify biological molecules in food samples—starch, reducing sugars, proteins, and fats—through iodine, Benedict’s, Biuret, and emulsion tests.

Photosynthesis and Light Intensity

Students investigate how light intensity affects the rate of photosynthesis using algal balls or pondweed, linking environmental factors to plant function.

Mathematical skills will account for at least 10% of the marks in the written assessments for GCSE Biology.

This means that across both Biology papers, students will be expected to apply mathematical techniques such as:

  • Calculating percentages and means
  • Interpreting graphs and tables
  • Using ratios, standard form, and significant figures
  • Applying formulas and solving equations
  • Understanding sampling and probability

These skills are assessed in the context of biological content, including practical work, data analysis, and theoretical questions.

  1. Science teachers use formative assessment in every lesson to check understanding and guide learning. They are confident, adaptive practitioners who respond to the needs of all learners, ensuring that every student is supported and challenged appropriately.
  2. At the end of each topic, students complete a short online assessment to check their understanding of key knowledge and skills. These tests focus on the core scientific concepts from that unit, helping students demonstrate their understanding and application. The results allow teachers to quickly identify and address any gaps, ensuring that future learning builds on secure and confident foundations.
  3. Three times a year, students sit a written cumulative assessment in their Biology lessons. These assessments feature GCSE-style questions, tailored to the appropriate level, and cover multiple topics studied up to that point. This regular revisiting of content helps students strengthen their understanding, apply knowledge in exam-style conditions, and build confidence over time.
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