Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 Syllabus PDF

Syllabus Cambridge IGCSE™ Biology 0610 Use this syllabus for exams in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Exams are available in the June and November series. Exams are also available in the March series in India only. Version 1 Why choose Cambridge International? Cambridge International prepares school students for life, helping them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. We are part of the University of Cambridge. Our Cambridge Pathway gives students a clear path for educational success from age 5 to 19. Schools can shape the curriculum around how they want students to learn – with a wide range of subjects and flexible ways to offer them. It helps students discover new abilities and a wider world, and gives them the skills they need for life, so they can achieve at school, university and work. Our programmes and qualifications set the global standard for international education. They are created by subject experts, rooted in academic rigour and reflect the latest educational research. They provide a strong platform for learners to progress from one stage to the next, and are well supported by teaching and learning resources. Our mission is to provide educational benefit through provision of international programmes and qualifications for school education and to be the world leader in this field. Together with schools, we develop Cambridge learners who are confident, responsible, reflective, innovative and engaged – equipped for success in the modern world. Every year, nearly a million Cambridge students from 10 000 schools in 160 countries prepare for their future with the Cambridge Pathway. ‘We think the Cambridge curriculum is superb preparation for university.’ Christoph Guttentag, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Duke University, USA Quality management Cambridge International is committed to providing exceptional quality. In line with this commitment, our quality management system for the provision of international qualifications and education programmes for students aged 5 to 19 is independently certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard, ISO 9001:2015. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/ISO9001 Copyright © UCLES September 2020 Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which itself is a department of the University of Cambridge. UCLES retains the copyright on all its publications. Registered centres are permitted to copy material from this booklet for their own internal use. However, we cannot give permission to centres to photocopy any material that is acknowledged to a third party even for internal use within a centre. Contents 1 Why choose this syllabus?..................................................................................................... 2 2 Syllabus overview.................................................................................................................... 5 Aims 5 Content overview 6 Assessment overview 7 Assessment objectives 8 3 Subject content.......................................................................................................................10 4 Details of the assessment................................................................................................... 45 Core assessment 45 Extended assessment 45 Practical assessment 46 Apparatus, materials and reagents 48 Safety in the laboratory 50 Mathematical requirements 50 Presentation of data 51 Conventions (e.g. signs, symbols, terminology and nomenclature) 53 Command words 54 5 What else you need to know...............................................................................................55 Before you start 55 Making entries 56 After the exam 57 How students and teachers can use the grades 57 Grade descriptions 57 Changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025 58 Important: Changes to this syllabus For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025, go to page 58 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. 1 Why choose this syllabus? Key benefits Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds, although it can be taken by students of other ages. It is tried, tested and trusted. Students can choose from 70 subjects in any combination – it is taught by over 4800 schools in over 150 countries. Cambridge Our programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding learner of a subject and help to develop the skills learners need for their next steps in education or employment. Cambridge IGCSE Biology develops a set of transferable skills including handling data, practical problem-solving and applying the scientific method. Learners develop relevant attitudes, such as concern for accuracy and precision, objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness. They acquire the essential scientific skills required for progression to further studies or employment. Our approach in Cambridge IGCSE Biology encourages learners to be: confident, interested in learning about science, questioning ideas and using scientific language to communicate their views and opinions responsible, working methodically and safely when working alone or collaboratively with others reflective, learning from their experiences and interested in scientific issues that affect the individual, the community and the environment innovative, solving unfamiliar problems confidently and creatively engaged, keen to develop scientific skills, being curious about scientific principles and their application in the world. ‘The strength of Cambridge IGCSE qualifications is internationally recognised and has provided an international pathway for our students to continue their studies around the world.’ Gary Tan, Head of Schools and CEO, Raffles International Group of Schools, Indonesia 2 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus? International recognition and acceptance Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the recognition of our programmes and qualifications around the world. The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE Biology gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Biology or Marine Science. Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements. UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and skills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge IGCSE and found it to be comparable to the standard of the reformed GCSE in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge IGCSE qualifications are accepted as equivalent to UK GCSEs by leading universities worldwide. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition ‘Cambridge IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and recognised qualifications in the world. It is very popular in Egypt because it provides the perfect preparation for success at advanced level programmes.’ Managing Director of British School in Egypt BSE Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 3 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Why choose this syllabus? Supporting teachers We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and professional development so that you can give your students the best possible preparation for Cambridge IGCSE. To find out which resources are available for each syllabus go to our School Support Hub. The School Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find the resources you need to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your subject and the global Cambridge community through our online discussion forums. Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support Planning and preparation Teaching and assessment Next step guides Endorsed resources Schemes of work Online forums Specimen papers Support for coursework and speaking tests Syllabuses Teacher guides Support for Cambridge IGCSE Learning and revision Results Example candidate responses Candidate Results Service Learner guides Principal examiner reports for teachers Past papers and mark schemes Results Analysis Specimen paper answers Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised products and services at www.cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates Professional development We support teachers through: Introductory Training – face-to-face or online Extension Training – face-to-face or online Enrichment Professional Development – face-to-face or online Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/events Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev Supporting exams officers We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams officers. Find out more at: www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide 4 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. 2 Syllabus overview Aims The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus. You can deliver some of the aims using suitable local, international or historical examples and applications, or through collaborative practical work. The aims are to enable students to: acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of scientific theories and practice develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely use scientific data and evidence to solve problems and discuss the limitations of scientific methods communicate effectively and clearly, using scientific terminology, notation and conventions understand that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment enjoy science and develop an informed interest in scientific matters which support further study. Cambridge Assessment International Education is an education organisation and politically neutral. The contents of this syllabus, examination papers and associated materials do not endorse any political view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the exam process neutrally. Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 5 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Content overview Candidates study the following topics: 1 Characteristics and classification of living organisms 2 Organisation of the organism 3 Movement into and out of cells 4 Biological molecules 5 Enzymes 6 Plant nutrition 7 Human nutrition 8 Transport in plants 9 Transport in animals 10 Diseases and immunity 11 Gas exchange in humans 12 Respiration 13 Excretion in humans 14 Coordination and response 15 Drugs 16 Reproduction 17 Inheritance 18 Variation and selection 19 Organisms and their environment 20 Human influences on ecosystems 21 Biotechnology and genetic modification 6 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Assessment overview All candidates take three papers. Candidates who have studied the Core syllabus content, or who are expected to achieve a grade D or below, should be entered for Paper 1, Paper 3 and either Paper 5 or Paper 6. These candidates will be eligible for grades C to G. Candidates who have studied the Extended syllabus content (Core and Supplement), and who are expected to achieve a grade C or above, should be entered for Paper 2, Paper 4 and either Paper 5 or Paper 6. These candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G. Core assessment Core candidates take Paper 1 and Paper 3. The questions are based on the Core subject content only: Paper 1: Multiple Choice (Core) Paper 3: Theory (Core) 45 minutes 1 hour 15 minutes 40 marks 30% 80 marks 50% 40 four-option multiple-choice questions Short-answer and structured questions Externally assessed Externally assessed Extended assessment Extended candidates take Paper 2 and Paper 4. The questions are based on the Core and Supplement subject content: Paper 2: Multiple Choice (Extended) Paper 4: Theory (Extended) 45 minutes 1 hour 15 minutes 40 marks 30% 80 marks 50% 40 four-option multiple-choice questions Short-answer and structured questions Externally assessed Externally assessed Practical assessment All candidates take one practical paper from a choice of two: Paper 5: Practical Test Paper 6: Alternative to Practical 1 hour 15 minutes 1 hour 40 marks 20% 40 marks 20% Questions will be based on the experimental OR Questions will be based on the experimental skills in Section 4 skills in Section 4 Externally assessed Externally assessed Information on availability is in the Before you start section. Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 7 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Assessment objectives The assessment objectives (AOs) are: AO1 Knowledge with understanding Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts and theories scientific vocabulary, terminology and conventions (including symbols, quantities and units) scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications. Subject content defines the factual material that candidates may be required to recall and explain. Candidates will also be asked questions which require them to apply this material to unfamiliar contexts and to apply knowledge from one area of the syllabus to another. AO2 Handling information and problem-solving Candidates should be able, in words or using other written forms of presentation (i.e. symbolic, graphical and numerical), to: locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources translate information from one form to another manipulate numerical and other data use information to identify patterns, report trends and form conclusions present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships make predictions based on relationships and patterns solve problems, including some of a quantitative nature. Questions testing these skills may be based on information that is unfamiliar to candidates, requiring them to apply the principles and concepts from the syllabus to a new situation, in a logical, deductive way. AO3 Experimental skills and investigations Candidates should be able to: demonstrate knowledge of how to select and safely use techniques, apparatus and materials (including following a sequence of instructions where appropriate) plan experiments and investigations make and record observations, measurements and estimates interpret and evaluate experimental observations and data evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements. 8 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Syllabus overview Weighting for assessment objectives The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below. Assessment objectives as a percentage of the qualification Assessment objective Weighting in IGCSE % AO1 Knowledge with understanding 50 AO2 Handling information and problem-solving 30 AO3 Experimental skills and investigations 20 Total 100 Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component Assessment objective Weighting in components % Papers 1 and 2 Papers 3 and 4 Papers 5 and 6 AO1 Knowledge with understanding 63 63 – AO2 Handling information and problem-solving 37 37 – AO3 E xperimental skills and investigations – – 100 Total 100 100 100 Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 9 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. 3 Subject content This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners. Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting resources and examples to support your learners’ study. These should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning context as well as complying with your school policies and local legal requirements. All candidates should be taught the Core subject content. Candidates who are only taught the Core subject content can achieve a maximum of grade C. Candidates aiming for grades A* to C should be taught the Extended subject content. The Extended subject content includes both the Core and the Supplement. Scientific subjects are, by their nature, experimental. Learners should pursue a fully integrated course which allows them to develop their experimental skills by doing practical work and investigations across a range of topics. Practical work helps students to: use equipment and materials accurately and safely develop observational and problem-solving skills develop a deeper understanding of the syllabus topics and the scientific approach appreciate how scientific theories are developed and tested transfer the experimental skills acquired to unfamiliar contexts develop positive scientific attitudes such as objectivity, integrity, cooperation, enquiry and inventiveness develop an interest and enjoyment in science. 1 Characteristics and classification of living organisms 1.1 Characteristics of living organisms Core Supplement 1 Describe the characteristics of living organisms by describing: (a) movement as an action by an organism or part of an organism causing a change of position or place (b) respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules and release energy for metabolism (c) sensitivity as the ability to detect and respond to changes in the internal or external environment (d) growth as a permanent increase in size and dry mass (e) reproduction as the processes that make more of the same kind of organism (f) excretion as the removal of the waste products of metabolism and substances in excess of requirements (g) nutrition as the taking in of materials for energy, growth and development 10 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 1.2 Concept and uses of classification systems Core Supplement 1 State that organisms can be classified into groups 5 Explain that classiﬁcation systems aim to reﬂect by the features that they share evolutionary relationships 2 Describe a species as a group of organisms that can reproduce to produce fertile offspring 3 Describe the binomial system of naming species as an internationally agreed system in which the scientiﬁc name of an organism is made up of two parts showing the genus and species 4 Construct and use dichotomous keys based on identifiable features 6 Explain that the sequences of bases in DNA are used as a means of classiﬁcation 7 Explain that groups of organisms which share a more recent ancestor (are more closely related) have base sequences in DNA that are more similar than those that share only a distant ancestor 1.3 Features of organisms Core Supplement 1 State the main features used to place animals 4 State the main features used to place all and plants into the appropriate kingdoms organisms into one of the five kingdoms: animal, plant, fungus, prokaryote, protoctist 2 State the main features used to place organisms 5 State the main features used to place organisms into groups within the animal kingdom, limited into groups within the plant kingdom, limited to: to ferns and flowering plants (dicotyledons and (a) the main groups of vertebrates: mammals, monocotyledons) birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish (b) the main groups of arthropods: myriapods, insects, arachnids, crustaceans 3 Classify organisms using the features identified in 6 Classify organisms using the features identified in 1.3.1 and 1.3.2 1.3.4 and 1.3.5 7 State the features of viruses, limited to a protein coat and genetic material Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 11 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 2 Organisation of the organism 2.1 Cell structure Core Supplement 1 Describe and compare the structure of a plant cell with an animal cell, limited to: cell wall, cell membrane, nucleus, cytoplasm, chloroplasts, ribosomes, mitochondria, vacuoles 2 Describe the structure of a bacterial cell, limited to: cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, circular DNA, plasmids 3 Identify the cell structures listed in 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 in diagrams and images of plant, animal and bacterial cells 4 Describe the functions of the structures listed in 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 in plant, animal and bacterial cells 5 State that new cells are produced by division of existing cells 6 State that specialised cells have specific functions, limited to: (a) ciliated cells – movement of mucus in the trachea and bronchi (b) root hair cells – absorption (c) palisade mesophyll cells – photosynthesis (d) neurones – conduction of electrical impulses (e) red blood cells – transport of oxygen (f) sperm and egg cells (gametes) – reproduction 7 Describe the meaning of the terms: cell, tissue, organ, organ system and organism as illustrated by examples given in the syllabus 2.2 Size of specimens Core Supplement 1 State and use the formula: magnification = image size ÷ actual size 2 Calculate magnification and size of biological 3 Convert measurements between millimetres (mm) specimens using millimetres as units and micrometres (μm) 12 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 3 Movement into and out of cells 3.1 Diffusion Core Supplement 1 Describe diffusion as the net movement of particles from a region of their higher concentration to a region of their lower concentration (i.e. down a concentration gradient), as a result of their random movement 2 State that the energy for diffusion comes from the kinetic energy of random movement of molecules and ions 3 State that some substances move into and out of cells by diffusion through the cell membrane 4 Describe the importance of diffusion of gases and solutes in living organisms 5 Investigate the factors that influence diffusion, limited to: surface area, temperature, concentration gradient and distance 3.2 Osmosis Core Supplement 1 Describe the role of water as a solvent in 7 Describe osmosis as the net movement of organisms with reference to digestion, excretion water molecules from a region of higher water and transport potential (dilute solution) to a region of lower 2 State that water diffuses through partially water potential (concentrated solution), through permeable membranes by osmosis a partially permeable membrane 3 State that water moves into and out of cells by osmosis through the cell membrane 4 Investigate osmosis using materials such as dialysis tubing 5 Investigate and describe the effects on plant 8 Explain the effects on plant cells of immersing tissues of immersing them in solutions of them in solutions of different concentrations different concentrations by using the terms: turgid, turgor pressure, plasmolysis, flaccid 9 Explain the importance of water potential and osmosis in the uptake and loss of water by organisms 6 State that plants are supported by the pressure of water inside the cells pressing outwards on the cell wall Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 13 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 3.3 Active transport Core Supplement 1 Describe active transport as the movement of 2 Explain the importance of active transport as particles through a cell membrane from a region a process for movement of molecules or ions of lower concentration to a region of higher across membranes, including ion uptake by root concentration (i.e. against a concentration hairs gradient), using energy from respiration 3 State that protein carriers move molecules or ions across a membrane during active transport 4 Biological molecules 4.1 Biological molecules Core Supplement 1 List the chemical elements that make up: carbohydrates, fats and proteins 2 State that large molecules are made from smaller molecules, limited to: (a) starch, glycogen and cellulose from glucose (b) proteins from amino acids (c) fats and oils from fatty acids and glycerol 3 Describe the use of: (a) iodine solution test for starch (b) Benedict’s solution test for reducing sugars (c) biuret test for proteins (d) ethanol emulsion test for fats and oils (e) DCPIP test for vitamin C 4 Describe the structure of a DNA molecule: (a) two strands coiled together to form a double helix (b) each strand contains chemicals called bases (c) bonds between pairs of bases hold the strands together (d) the bases always pair up in the same way: A with T, and C with G (full names are not required) 14 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 5 Enzymes 5.1 Enzymes Core Supplement 1 Describe a catalyst as a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction and is not changed by the reaction 2 Describe enzymes as proteins that are involved in all metabolic reactions, where they function as biological catalysts 3 Describe why enzymes are important in all living organisms in terms of a reaction rate necessary to sustain life 4 Describe enzyme action with reference to 6 Explain enzyme action with reference to: active the shape of the active site of an enzyme site, enzyme-substrate complex, substrate and being complementary to its substrate and the product formation of products 7 Explain the specificity of enzymes in terms of the complementary shape and fit of the active site with the substrate 5 Investigate and describe the effect of changes 8 Explain the effect of changes in temperature on in temperature and pH on enzyme activity enzyme activity in terms of kinetic energy, shape with reference to optimum temperature and and fit, frequency of effective collisions and denaturation denaturation 9 Explain the effect of changes in pH on enzyme activity in terms of shape and fit and denaturation 6 Plant nutrition 6.1 Photosynthesis Core Supplement 1 Describe photosynthesis as the process by which plants synthesise carbohydrates from raw materials using energy from light 2 State the word equation for photosynthesis as: 10 State the balanced chemical equation for carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen photosynthesis as: in the presence of light and chlorophyll 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2 3 State that chlorophyll is a green pigment that is found in chloroplasts 4 State that chlorophyll transfers energy from light into energy in chemicals, for the synthesis of carbohydrates continued Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 15 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 6.1 Photosynthesis continued Core Supplement 5 Outline the subsequent use and storage of the carbohydrates made in photosynthesis, limited to: (a) starch as an energy store (b) cellulose to build cell walls (c) glucose used in respiration to provide energy (d) sucrose for transport in the phloem (e) nectar to attract insects for pollination 6 Explain the importance of: (a) nitrate ions for making amino acids (b) magnesium ions for making chlorophyll 7 Investigate the need for chlorophyll, light and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, using appropriate controls 8 Investigate and describe the effects of varying light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration and temperature on the rate of photosynthesis 9 Investigate and describe the effect of light and dark conditions on gas exchange in an aquatic plant using hydrogencarbonate indicator solution 11 Identify and explain the limiting factors of photosynthesis in different environmental conditions 6.2 Leaf structure Core Supplement 1 State that most leaves have a large surface area and are thin, and explain how these features are adaptations for photosynthesis 2 Identify in diagrams and images the following structures in the leaf of a dicotyledonous plant: chloroplasts, cuticle, guard cells and stomata, upper and lower epidermis, palisade mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, air spaces, vascular bundles, xylem and phloem 3 Explain how the structures listed in 6.2.2 adapt leaves for photosynthesis 16 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 7 Human nutrition 7.1 Diet Core Supplement 1 Describe what is meant by a balanced diet 2 State the principal dietary sources and describe the importance of: (a) carbohydrates (b) fats and oils (c) proteins (d) vitamins, limited to C and D (e) mineral ions, limited to calcium and iron (f) fibre (roughage) (g) water 3 State the causes of scurvy and rickets 7.2 Digestive system Core Supplement 1 Identify in diagrams and images the main organs of the digestive system, limited to: (a) alimentary canal: mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine (duodenum and ileum) and large intestine (colon, rectum, anus) (b) associated organs: salivary glands, pancreas, liver and gall bladder 2 Describe the functions of the organs of the digestive system listed in 7.2.1, in relation to: (a) ingestion – the taking of substances, e.g. food and drink, into the body (b) digestion – the breakdown of food (c) absorption – the movement of nutrients from the intestines into the blood (d) assimilation – uptake and use of nutrients by cells (e) egestion – the removal of undigested food from the body as faeces Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 17 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 7.3 Physical digestion Core Supplement 1 Describe physical digestion as the breakdown of food into smaller pieces without chemical change to the food molecules 2 State that physical digestion increases the surface area of food for the action of enzymes in chemical digestion 3 Identify in diagrams and images the types of human teeth: incisors, canines, premolars and molars 4 Describe the structure of human teeth, limited to: enamel, dentine, pulp, nerves, blood vessels and cement, and understand that teeth are embedded in bone and the gums 5 Describe the functions of the types of human teeth in physical digestion of food 6 Describe the function of the stomach in physical digestion 7 Outline the role of bile in emulsifying fats and oils to increase the surface area for chemical digestion 7.4 Chemical digestion Core Supplement 1 Describe chemical digestion as the break down of large insoluble molecules into small soluble molecules 2 State the role of chemical digestion in producing small soluble molecules that can be absorbed 3 Describe the functions of enzymes as follows: 6 Describe the digestion of starch in the digestive (a) amylase breaks down starch to simple system: reducing sugars (a) amylase breaks down starch to maltose (b) proteases break down protein to amino acids (b) maltase breaks down maltose to glucose on (c) lipase breaks down fats and oils to fatty acids the membranes of the epithelium lining the and glycerol small intestine 4 State where, in the digestive system, amylase, 7 Describe the digestion of protein by proteases in protease and lipase are secreted and where they the digestive system: act (a) pepsin breaks down protein in the acidic 5 Describe the functions of hydrochloric acid conditions of the stomach in gastric juice, limited to killing harmful (b) trypsin breaks down protein in the alkaline microorganisms in food and providing an acidic conditions of the small intestine pH for optimum enzyme activity 8 Explain that bile is an alkaline mixture that neutralises the acidic mixture of food and gastric juices entering the duodenum from the stomach, to provide a suitable pH for enzyme action 18 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 7.5 Absorption Core Supplement 1 State that the small intestine is the region where nutrients are absorbed 3 Explain the significance of villi and microvilli in increasing the internal surface area of the small intestine 4 Describe the structure of a villus 5 Describe the roles of capillaries and lacteals in villi 2 State that most water is absorbed from the small intestine but that some is also absorbed from the colon 8 Transport in plants 8.1 Xylem and phloem Core Supplement 1 State the functions of xylem and phloem: 3 Relate the structure of xylem vessels to their (a) xylem – transport of water and mineral ions, function, limited to: and support (a) thick walls with lignin (details of lignification (b) phloem – transport of sucrose and amino are not required) acids (b) no cell contents 2 Identify in diagrams and images the position of (c) cells joined end to end with no cross walls to xylem and phloem as seen in sections of roots, form a long continuous tube stems and leaves of non-woody dicotyledonous plants 8.2 Water uptake Core Supplement 1 Identify in diagrams and images root hair cells and state their functions 2 State that the large surface area of root hairs increases the uptake of water and mineral ions 3 Outline the pathway taken by water through the root, stem and leaf as: root hair cells, root cortex cells, xylem, mesophyll cells 4 Investigate, using a suitable stain, the pathway of water through the above-ground parts of a plant Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 19 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 8.3 Transpiration Core Supplement 1 Describe transpiration as the loss of water vapour from leaves 2 State that water evaporates from the surfaces of the mesophyll cells into the air spaces and then diffuses out of the leaves through the stomata as water vapour 4 Explain how water vapour loss is related to: the large internal surface area provided by the interconnecting air spaces between mesophyll cells and the size and number of stomata 5 Explain the mechanism by which water moves upwards in the xylem in terms of a transpiration pull that draws up a column of water molecules, held together by forces of attraction between water molecules 3 Investigate and describe the effects of variation 6 Explain the effects on the rate of transpiration of of temperature and wind speed on transpiration varying the following factors: temperature, wind rate speed and humidity 7 Explain how and why wilting occurs 8.4 Translocation Core Supplement 1 Describe translocation as the movement of sucrose and amino acids in phloem from sources to sinks 2 Describe: (a) sources as the parts of plants that release sucrose or amino acids (b) sinks as the parts of plants that use or store sucrose or amino acids 3 Explain why some parts of a plant may act as a source and a sink at different times 20 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 9 Transport in animals 9.1 Circulatory systems Core Supplement 1 Describe the circulatory system as a system of blood vessels with a pump and valves to ensure one-way flow of blood 2 Describe the single circulation of a fish 3 Describe the double circulation of a mammal 4 Explain the advantages of a double circulation 9.2 Heart Core Supplement 1 Identify in diagrams and images the structures of 7 Identify in diagrams and images the the mammalian heart, limited to: muscular wall, atrioventricular and semilunar valves in the septum, left and right ventricles, left and right mammalian heart atria, one-way valves and coronary arteries 8 Explain the relative thickness of: (a) the muscle walls of the left and right ventricles (b) the muscle walls of the atria compared to those of the ventricles 9 Explain the importance of the septum in separating oxygenated and deoxygenated blood 10 Describe the functioning of the heart in terms of the contraction of muscles of the atria and ventricles and the action of the valves 2 State that blood is pumped away from the heart in arteries and returns to the heart in veins 3 State that the activity of the heart may be monitored by: ECG, pulse rate and listening to sounds of valves closing 4 Investigate and describe the effect of physical 11 Explain the effect of physical activity on the heart activity on the heart rate rate 5 Describe coronary heart disease in terms of the blockage of coronary arteries and state the possible risk factors including: diet, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, genetic predisposition, age and sex 6 Discuss the roles of diet and exercise in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 21 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 9.3 Blood vessels Core Supplement 1 Describe the structure of arteries, veins and 4 Explain how the structure of arteries and veins capillaries, limited to: relative thickness of wall, is related to the pressure of the blood that they diameter of the lumen and the presence of valves transport in veins 2 State the functions of capillaries 5 Explain how the structure of capillaries is related to their functions 3 Identify in diagrams and images the main blood 6 Identify, in diagrams and images, the main blood vessels to and from the: vessels to and from the liver as: hepatic artery, (a) heart, limited to: vena cava, aorta, pulmonary hepatic veins and hepatic portal vein artery and pulmonary vein (b) lungs, limited to: pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein (c) kidney, limited to: renal artery and renal vein 9.4 Blood Core Supplement 1 List the components of blood as: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma 2 Identify red and white blood cells in 5 Identify lymphocytes and phagocytes in photomicrographs and diagrams photomicrographs and diagrams 3 State the functions of the following components 6 State the functions of: of blood: (a) lymphocytes – antibody production (a) red blood cells in transporting oxygen, (b) phagocytes – engulfing pathogens by including the role of haemoglobin phagocytosis (b) white blood cells in phagocytosis and antibody production (c) platelets in clotting (details are not required) (d) plasma in the transport of blood cells, ions, nutrients, urea, hormones and carbon dioxide 4 State the roles of blood clotting as preventing 7 Describe the process of clotting as the conversion blood loss and the entry of pathogens of fibrinogen to fibrin to form a mesh 22 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 10 Diseases and immunity 10.1 Diseases and immunity Core Supplement 1 Describe a pathogen as a disease-causing organism 2 Describe a transmissible disease as a disease in which the pathogen can be passed from one host to another 3 State that a pathogen is transmitted: (a) by direct contact, including through blood and other body fluids (b) indirectly, including from contaminated surfaces, food, animals and air 4 Describe the body defences, limited to: skin, 6 Describe active immunity as defence against a hairs in the nose, mucus, stomach acid and white pathogen by antibody production in the body blood cells 7 State that each pathogen has its own antigens, 5 Explain the importance of the following in which have specific shapes controlling the spread of disease: 8 Describe antibodies as proteins that bind (a) a clean water supply to antigens leading to direct destruction (b) hygienic food preparation of pathogens or marking of pathogens for destruction by phagocytes (c) good personal hygiene 9 State that specific antibodies have (d) waste disposal complementary shapes which fit specific antigens (e) sewage treatment (details of the stages of 10 Explain that active immunity is gained after an sewage treatment are not required) infection by a pathogen or by vaccination 11 Outline the process of vaccination: (a) weakened pathogens or their antigens are put into the body (b) the antigens stimulate an immune response by lymphocytes which produce antibodies (c) memory cells are produced that give long-term immunity 12 Explain the role of vaccination in controlling the spread of diseases 13 Explain that passive immunity is a short-term defence against a pathogen by antibodies acquired from another individual, including across the placenta and in breast milk 14 Explain the importance of breast-feeding for the development of passive immunity in infants 15 State that memory cells are not produced in passive immunity continued Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 23 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 10.1 Diseases and immunity continued Core Supplement 16 Describe cholera as a disease caused by a bacterium which is transmitted in contaminated water 17 Explain that the cholera bacterium produces a toxin that causes secretion of chloride ions into the small intestine, causing osmotic movement of water into the gut, causing diarrhoea, dehydration and loss of ions from the blood 11 Gas exchange in humans 11.1 Gas exchange in humans Core Supplement 1 Describe the features of gas exchange surfaces in humans, limited to: large surface area, thin surface, good blood supply and good ventilation with air 2 Identify in diagrams and images the following 6 Identify in diagrams and images the internal and parts of the breathing system: lungs, diaphragm, external intercostal muscles ribs, intercostal muscles, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli and associated capillaries 7 State the function of cartilage in the trachea 8 Explain the role of the ribs, the internal and external intercostal muscles and the diaphragm in producing volume and pressure changes in the thorax leading to the ventilation of the lungs 3 Investigate the differences in composition 9 Explain the differences in composition between between inspired and expired air using limewater inspired and expired air as a test for carbon dioxide 4 Describe the differences in composition between inspired and expired air, limited to: oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapour 5 Investigate and describe the effects of physical 10 Explain the link between physical activity and activity on the rate and depth of breathing the rate and depth of breathing in terms of: an increased carbon dioxide concentration in the blood, which is detected by the brain, leading to an increased rate and greater depth of breathing 11 Explain the role of goblet cells, mucus and ciliated cells in protecting the breathing system from pathogens and particles 24 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 12 Respiration 12.1 Respiration Core Supplement 1 State the uses of energy in living organisms, including: muscle contraction, protein synthesis, cell division, active transport, growth, the passage of nerve impulses and the maintenance of a constant body temperature 2 Investigate and describe the effect of temperature on respiration in yeast 12.2 Aerobic respiration Core Supplement 1 Describe aerobic respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that use oxygen to break down nutrient molecules to release energy 2 State the word equation for aerobic respiration as: 3 State the balanced chemical equation for aerobic glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water respiration as: C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O 12.3 Anaerobic respiration Core Supplement 1 Describe anaerobic respiration as the chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules to release energy without using oxygen 2 State that anaerobic respiration releases much less energy per glucose molecule than aerobic respiration 3 State the word equation for anaerobic respiration 5 State the balanced chemical equation for in yeast as: anaerobic respiration in yeast as: glucose → alcohol + carbon dioxide C6H12O6 → 2C2H5OH + 2CO2 4 State the word equation for anaerobic respiration in muscles during vigorous exercise as: glucose → lactic acid 6 State that lactic acid builds up in muscles and blood during vigorous exercise causing an oxygen debt continued Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 25 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 12.3 Anaerobic respiration continued Core Supplement 7 Outline how the oxygen debt is removed after exercise, limited to: (a) continuation of fast heart rate to transport lactic acid in the blood from the muscles to the liver (b) continuation of deeper and faster breathing to supply oxygen for aerobic respiration of lactic acid (c) aerobic respiration of lactic acid in the liver 13 Excretion in humans 13.1 Excretion in humans Core Supplement 1 State that carbon dioxide is excreted through the lungs 2 State that the kidneys excrete urea and excess water and ions 3 Identify in diagrams and images the kidneys, 4 Identify in diagrams and images the structure of ureters, bladder and urethra the kidney, limited to the cortex and medulla 5 Outline the structure and function of a nephron and its associated blood vessels, limited to: (a) the role of the glomerulus in the filtration from the blood of water, glucose, urea and ions (b) the role of the nephron in the reabsorption of all of the glucose, some of the ions and most of the water back into the blood (c) the formation of urine containing urea, excess water and excess ions (details of these processes are not required) 6 Describe the role of the liver in the assimilation of amino acids by converting them to proteins 7 State that urea is formed in the liver from excess amino acids 8 Describe deamination as the removal of the nitrogen-containing part of amino acids to form urea 9 Explain the importance of excretion, limited to toxicity of urea 26 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 14 Coordination and response 14.1 Coordination and response Core Supplement 1 State that electrical impulses travel along neurones 2 Describe the mammalian nervous system in terms of: (a) the central nervous system (CNS) consisting of the brain and the spinal cord (b) the peripheral nervous system (PNS) consisting of the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord 3 Describe the role of the nervous system as coordination and regulation of body functions 4 Identify in diagrams and images sensory, relay and motor neurones 5 Describe a simple reflex arc in terms of: receptor, sensory neurone, relay neurone, motor neurone and effector 6 Describe a reflex action as a means of automatically and rapidly integrating and coordinating stimuli with the responses of effectors (muscles and glands) 7 Describe a synapse as a junction between two 8 Describe the structure of a synapse, including the neurones presence of vesicles containing neurotransmitter molecules, the synaptic gap and receptor proteins 9 Describe the events at a synapse as: (a) an impulse stimulates the release of neurotransmitter molecules from vesicles into the synaptic gap (b) the neurotransmitter molecules diffuse across the gap (c) neurotransmitter molecules bind with receptor proteins on the next neurone (d) an impulse is then stimulated in the next neurone 10 State that synapses ensure that impulses travel in one direction only Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 27 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 14.2 Sense organs Core Supplement 1 Describe sense organs as groups of receptor cells responding to specific stimuli: light, sound, touch, temperature and chemicals 2 Identify in diagrams and images the structures of the eye, limited to: cornea, iris, pupil, lens, retina, optic nerve and blind spot 3 Describe the function of each part of the eye, limited to: (a) cornea – refracts light (b) iris – controls how much light enters the pupil (c) lens – focuses light on to the retina (d) retina – contains light receptors, some sensitive to light of different colours (e) optic nerve – carries impulses to the brain 4 Explain the pupil reflex, limited to changes in 5 Explain the pupil reflex in terms of the light intensity and pupil diameter antagonistic action of circular and radial muscles in the iris 6 Explain accommodation to view near and distant objects in terms of the contraction and relaxation of the ciliary muscles, tension in the suspensory ligaments, shape of the lens and refraction of light 7 Describe the distribution of rods and cones in the retina of a human 8 Outline the function of rods and cones, limited to: (a) greater sensitivity of rods for night vision (b) three different kinds of cones, absorbing light of different colours, for colour vision 9 Identify in diagrams and images the position of the fovea and state its function 28 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 14.3 Hormones Core Supplement 1 Describe a hormone as a chemical substance, produced by a gland and carried by the blood, which alters the activity of one or more specific target organs 2 Identify in diagrams and images specific 5 State that glucagon is secreted by the pancreas endocrine glands and state the hormones they secrete, limited to: (a) adrenal glands and adrenaline (b) pancreas and insulin (c) testes and testosterone (d) ovaries and oestrogen 3 Describe adrenaline as the hormone secreted in 6 Describe the role of adrenaline in the control of ‘fight or flight’ situations and its effects, limited metabolic activity, limited to: to: (a) increasing the blood glucose concentration (a) increased breathing rate (b) increasing heart rate (b) increased heart rate (c) increased pupil diameter 4 Compare nervous and hormonal control, limited to speed of action and duration of effect 14.4 Homeostasis Core Supplement 1 Describe homeostasis as the maintenance of a 3 Explain the concept of homeostatic control by constant internal environment negative feedback with reference to a set point 2 State that insulin decreases blood glucose 4 Describe the control of blood glucose concentration concentration by the liver and the roles of insulin and glucagon 5 Outline the treatment of Type 1 diabetes 6 Identify in diagrams and images of the skin: hairs, hair erector muscles, sweat glands, receptors, sensory neurones, blood vessels and fatty tissue 7 Describe the maintenance of a constant internal body temperature in mammals in terms of: insulation, sweating, shivering and the role of the brain 8 Describe the maintenance of a constant internal body temperature in mammals in terms of vasodilation and vasoconstriction of arterioles supplying skin surface capillaries Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 29 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 14.5 Tropic responses Core Supplement 1 Describe gravitropism as a response in which 4 Explain phototropism and gravitropism of a shoot parts of a plant grow towards or away from as examples of the chemical control of plant gravity growth 2 Describe phototropism as a response in which 5 Explain the role of auxin in controlling shoot parts of a plant grow towards or away from the growth, limited to: direction of the light source (a) auxin is made in the shoot tip 3 Investigate and describe gravitropism and (b) auxin diffuses through the plant from the phototropism in shoots and roots shoot tip (c) auxin is unequally distributed in response to light and gravity (d) auxin stimulates cell elongation 15 Drugs 15.1 Drugs Core Supplement 1 Describe a drug as any substance taken into the body that modifies or affects chemical reactions in the body 2 Describe the use of antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial infections 3 State that some bacteria are resistant to 5 Explain how using antibiotics only when essential antibiotics which reduces the effectiveness of can limit the development of resistant bacteria antibiotics such as MRSA 4 State that antibiotics kill bacteria but do not affect viruses 16 Reproduction 16.1 Asexual reproduction Core Supplement 1 Describe asexual reproduction as a process resulting in the production of genetically identical offspring from one parent 2 Identify examples of asexual reproduction in diagrams, images and information provided 3 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of asexual reproduction: (a) to a population of a species in the wild (b) to crop production 30 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 16.2 Sexual reproduction Core Supplement 1 Describe sexual reproduction as a process 3 State that nuclei of gametes are haploid and that involving the fusion of the nuclei of two gametes the nucleus of a zygote is diploid to form a zygote and the production of offspring that are genetically different from each other 2 Describe fertilisation as the fusion of the nuclei of gametes 4 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of sexual reproduction: (a) to a population of a species in the wild (b) to crop production 16.3 Sexual reproduction in plants Core Supplement 1 Identify in diagrams and images and draw the following parts of an insect-pollinated flower: sepals, petals, stamens, filaments, anthers, carpels, style, stigma, ovary and ovules 2 State the functions of the structures listed in 16.3.1 3 Identify in diagrams and images and describe the anthers and stigmas of a wind-pollinated flower 4 Distinguish between the pollen grains of insect-pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers 5 Describe pollination as the transfer of pollen grains from an anther to a stigma 9 Describe self-pollination as the transfer of pollen grains from the anther of a flower to the stigma of the same flower or a different flower on the same plant 10 Describe cross-pollination as the transfer of pollen grains from the anther of a flower to the stigma of a flower on a different plant of the same species 11 Discuss the potential effects of self-pollination and cross-pollination on a population, in terms of variation, capacity to respond to changes in the environment and reliance on pollinators continued Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 31 Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Subject content 16.3 Sexual reproduction in plants continued Core Supplement 6 State that fertilisation occurs when a pollen 12 Describe the growth of the pollen tube and its nucleus fuses with a nucleus in an ovule entry into the ovule followed by fertilisation 7 Describe the structural adaptations of (details of production of endosperm and insect-pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers development are not required) 8 Investigate and describe the environmental conditions that affect germination of seeds, limited to the requirement for: water, oxygen and a suitable temperature 16.4 Sexual reproduction in humans Core Supplement 1 Identify on diagrams and state the functions of the following parts of the male reproductive system: testes, scrotum, sperm ducts, prostate gland, urethra and penis 2 Identify on diagrams and state the functions of the following parts of the female reproductive system: ovaries, oviducts, uterus, cervix and vagina 3 Describe fertilisation as the fusion of the nuclei from a male gamete (sperm) and a female gamete (egg cell) 4 Explain the adaptive features of sperm, limited to: flagellum, mitochondria and enzymes in the acrosome 5 Explain the adaptive features of egg cells, limited to: energy stores and the jelly coat that changes at fertilisation 6 Compare male and female gametes in terms of: size, structure, motility and numbers 7 State that in early development, the zygote forms an embryo which is a ball of cells that implants into the lining of the uterus 8 Identify on diagrams and state the functions of 9 Describe the function of the placenta and the following in the development of the fetus: umbilical cord in relation to the exchange of umbilical cord, placenta, amniotic sac and dissolved nutrients, gases and excretory products amniotic fluid

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