Biology IGCSE (4BI0)

What is IGCSE?
IGCSEs are the same as GCSEs and are accepted in just the same way. We have given more detail about what they are on our website - .

What is Biology?
The Edexcel IGCSE in Biology enables students to:
• acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, concepts and principles
• develop an appreciation of the significance of biological facts, concepts and principles and
the skills needed for their use in new and changing situations
• appreciate the importance of accurate experimental work to scientific method and reporting
• form hypotheses and design experiments to test them
• sustain and develop an enjoyment of, and interest in, the study of living organisms
• evaluate, in terms of their biological knowledge and understanding, the benefits and
drawbacks of scientific and technological developments, including those related to social,
environmental and economic issues.

This completely new IGCSE course is designed to help meet the needs of those who want an introduction to this challenging subject either with a view to further study at A Level or simply to supplement a portfolio of IGCSE/GCSE subjects. This qualification will provide you with a broad introduction to the key components of this exciting and challenging field.

A detailed description of the specification can be found on the Edexcel website:
http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/IGCSE%20New%20IGCSE/IGCSE%20Biology%20%284BI0%29%20Issue%202.pdf

Who is the awarding body?
The awarding body is Edexcel. For more information go to:
http://www.edexcel.com/Pages/Home.aspx

What is the course title and code for this qualification?
IGCSE in Biology (4BI0)

How is the course structured?
We will begin by looking at what the examination board, Edexcel, will require of you in the way of examinations.  You will be referred to what you need to do in terms of registration and arranging with an external centre for you to take the examinations.
Once the administration matters have been cleared up, we will look at the specification we will be following, namely the IGCSE in Biology (4BI0).

As part of your course, you will be supplied with the Study Guide for IGCSE and A Levels. Do make use of this as it has been written to help you with your studies and to supplement the specific information and guidance given in the course material itself.

What does the course prepare me for?
The study pack is designed to closely match the curriculum content of syllabus and will provide you with the information and support you’ll need to take the exams with confidence.
The materials and accompanying exercises provided will help you to develop the necessary knowledge and confidence to successfully attempt the exams. The key parts of the course which are important in every aspect are planning your studies and practice assessments.

What will be in the examinations?
This Edexcel IGCSE in Biology qualification comprises two externally assessed papers:
• Biology Paper 1
• Biology Paper 2.
Biology Paper 1 Paper code: 4BI0/1B (66% of the total IGCSE marks)
• Externally assessed
• Availability: January and June series

Overview of content:
• Section 1: The nature and variety of living organisms
• Section 2: Structures and functions in living organisms
• Section 3: Reproduction and inheritance
• Section 4: Ecology and the environment
• Section 5: Use of biological resources

Overview of assessment:
• The paper is assessed through a two-hour examination paper set and marked by Edexcel.
• The total number of marks is 120.

Biology Paper 2 Paper code: 4BI0/2B (33% of the total IGCSE marks)
• Externally assessed
• Availability: January and June series
• First assessment: June 2011

Overview of content:
• Section 1: The nature and variety of living organisms
• Section 2: Structures and functions in living organisms
• Section 3: Reproduction and inheritance
• Section 4: Ecology and the environment
• Section 5: Use of biological resources

Overview of assessment:
• The paper is assessed through a one-hour examination paper set and marked by Edexcel.
• The total number of marks is 60.

Where do I sit my examinations?
Students are reminded that it is their responsibility to find and register with a centre to take the examinations.
You should approach local schools and colleges to see if they are willing to accept you as a Private Candidate. When consulting them, take with you details of the specification as they are far more willing to listen to your request if they can see immediately what will be involved on their part. Do stress that there is no coursework component involved, merely one exam of two hours. Have the syllabus number to hand as well.

Is Learning at Home my centre for the examinations?
No. Your centre is the one you have to find to sit your examinations through.

When can I sit my examinations?
The examinations are available in January and June each year. You do need to ensure that your centre is able and willing to handle your entry. They are not obliged to accept you as a candidate so do not make any assumption that you will be able to do the exams when you wish.
A further consideration is whether you are allowing yourself time to complete the necessary preparation prior to taking the exams. You are allowed twelve months’ support from UK Open Learning so you will need to take this into account when making your plans. It may be possible to extend you tutorial time but this will be subject to an extra charge by your tutor.
Code IG11