OCR GCSE Gateway Biology B Specification (2018) (J257)

GCSE (9-1)
Specification
TWENTY FIRST CENTURY SCIENCE

BIOLOGY B
J257
For first assessment in 2018
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ocr.org.uk/gcsec21biology
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Contents
Support and Guidance ii

Assessment Preparation and Analysis Service iii
1 Why choose an OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)? 1
1a. Why choose an OCR qualification? 1
1b. Why choose an OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)? 2
1c. What are the key features of this specification? 4
1d. How do I find out more information? 4
2 The specification overview 5

2a. OCRs GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) (J257) 5
2b. Content of GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) (J257) 6
2c. Content of chapters B1 to B8 9
2d. Prior knowledge, learning and progression 60
3 Assessment of GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) 61

3a. Forms of assessment 61
3b. Assessment objectives (AO) 62
3c. Tiers 63
3d. Assessment availability 63
3e. Retaking the qualification 63
3f. Assessment of extended response 63
3g. Synoptic assessment 63
3h. Calculating qualification results 64
4 Admin: what you need to know 65

4a. Pre-assessment 65
4b. Special consideration 66
4c. External assessment arrangements 66
4d. Results and certificates 66
4e. Post-results services 67
4f. Malpractice 67
5 Appendices 68
5a. Overlap with other qualifications 68
5b. Accessibility 68
5c. Units in science 69
5d. Mathematical skills 70
5e. Mathematical skills requirement 71
5f. Health and Safety 73
OCR 2016
GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) i
Support and Guidance
Introducing a new specification brings challenges for knowledge that will grow throughout the lifetime of
implementation and teaching, but it also opens up the specification, they include:
new opportunities. Our aim is to help you at every
stage. We are working hard with teachers and other Delivery Guides
experts to bring you a package of practical support, Transition Guides
resources and training. Topic Exploration Packs
Lesson Elements.
Subject Specialists
We also work with a number of leading publishers
OCR Subject Specialists provide information and
who publish textbooks and resources for our
support to centres including specification and non-
specifications. For more information on our
exam assessment advice, updates on resource
publishing partners and their resources visit:
developments and a range of training opportunities.
ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-and-a-level-reform/
Our Subject Specialists work with subject communities publishing-partners
through a range of networks to ensure the sharing of
ideas and expertise supporting teachers and students Professional development
alike. They work with developers to help produce our
Our improved Professional Development
specifications and the resources needed to support
Programme fulfils a range of needs through
these qualifications during their development.
course selection, preparation for teaching, delivery
You can contact our Science Subject Specialists for and assessment. Whether you want to come to
specialist advice, guidance and support: face-to-face events, look at our new digital training
or search for training materials, you can find what
youre looking for all in one place at the CPD Hub:
01223 553998 cpdhub.ocr.org.uk
ScienceGCSE@ocr.org.uk
An introduction to new specifications
@OCR_Science We run training events throughout the academic
year that are designed to help prepare you for first
Teaching and learning resources teaching and support every stage of your delivery of
the new qualifications.
Our resources are designed to provide you with a
range of teaching activities and suggestions that To receive the latest information about the training
enable you to select the best activity, approach or we offer on GCSE and A Level, please register for
context to support your teaching style and your email updates at: ocr.org.uk/updates
particular students. The resources are a body of
OCR 2016
ii GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
Assessment Preparation and Analysis Service
Along with subject-specific resources and tools, youll that focus on skills development, professional
also have access to a selection of generic resources guidance for teachers and results data analysis.
OCR 2016
GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) iii
OCR 2016
iv GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
1 Why choose an OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B
(Twenty First Century Science)?
1a. Why choose an OCR qualification?

Choose OCR and youve got the reassurance that
youre working with one of the UKs leading exam
their own learning, confident in discussing ideas,
innovative and engaged.
1
boards. Our new OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B
(Twenty First Century Science) course has been We provide a range of support services designed to
developed in consultation with teachers, employers help you at every stage, from preparation through
and Higher Education to provide learners with a to the delivery of our specications. This includes:
qualification thats relevant to them and meets
their needs. A wide range of high-quality creative resources
including:
Were part of the Cambridge Assessment Group, Delivery Guides
Europes largest assessment agency and a Transition Guides
department of the University of Cambridge. Topic Exploration Packs
Cambridge Assessment plays a leading role in Lesson Elements
developing and delivering assessments throughout ... and much more.
the world, operating in over 150 countries.
Access to subject specialists to support you
We work with a range of education providers, through the transition and throughout the
including schools, colleges, workplaces and other lifetime of the specification.
institutions in both the public and private sectors.
Over 13000 centres choose our A Levels, CPD/Training for teachers to introduce the
GCSEs and vocational qualifications including qualifications and prepare you for first teaching.
Cambridge Nationals and Cambridge Technicals.
Active Results our free results analysis
Our Specifications service to help you review the performance
of individual learners or whole schools.
We believe in developing specifications that help you
bring the subject to life and inspire your learners to ExamCreator our new online past papers
achieve more. service that enables you to build your own
test papers from past OCR exam questions.
Weve created teacher-friendly specifications based
on extensive research and engagement with the All GCSE (91) qualifications offered by OCR are
teaching community. Theyre designed to be accredited by Ofqual, the Regulator for qualifications
straightforward and accessible so that you can tailor offered in England. The accreditation number for
the delivery of the course to suit your needs. We aim OCRs GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century
to encourage learners to become responsible for Science) is QN601/8506/5.
OCR 2016
GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) 1
1b. Why choose an OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B
(Twenty First Century Science)?
We appreciate that one size doesnt fit all so we offer
1
Education Group (UYSEG) in conjunction with subject
two suites of qualifications in each science: and teaching experts. Together we have aimed to
produce a specification with up to date relevant
Biology A (Gateway Science) Provides a flexible content accompanied by a narrative to give context
approach to teaching. The specification is divided into and an idea of the breadth of teaching required. Our
topics, each covering different key concepts of new GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century
biology. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with Science) qualification builds on our existing popular
the theoretical topics and they are assessed through course. Weve based the redevelopment of our GCSE
the written papers. (91) sciences on an understanding of what works
well in centres large and small. Weve undertaken
Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) Learners a significant amount of consultation through our
study biology using a narrative-based approach. Ideas science forums (which include representatives from
are introduced within relevant and interesting settings learned societies, HE, teaching and industry) and
which help learners to anchor their conceptual through focus groups with teachers.
knowledge of the range of biological topics required
at GCSE level. Practical skills are embedded within The content is clear and logically laid out for both
the specification and learners are expected to carry existing centres and those new to OCR, with
out practical work in preparation for a written assessment models that are straightforward to
examination that will specifically test these skills. administer. We have worked closely with teachers
to provide high quality support materials to guide
Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) has been you through the new qualifications.
developed with the University of York Science
Aims and learning outcomes
GCSE study in the sciences provides the foundation the assumption that every effect has one or
for understanding the material world. Scientific more cause
understanding is changing our lives and is vital to
worlds future prosperity, and all learners should be that change is driven by differences between
taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, different objects and systems when they
process and uses of science. They should be helped to interact
appreciate how the complex and diverse phenomena
of the natural world can be described in terms of a that many such interactions occur over a
small number of key ideas relating to the sciences distance and over time without direct contact
which are both inter-linked, and are of universal
application. These key ideas include: that science progresses through a cycle of
hypothesis, practical experimentation,
the use of conceptual models and theories to observation, theory development and review
make sense of the observed diversity of natural
phenomena that quantitative analysis is a central element
both of many theories and of scientific
methods of inquiry.
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2 GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
The Twenty First Century Science suite will enable develop and learn to apply observational,
learners to: practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-
solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the
develop scientific knowledge and conceptual field and in other learning environments
understanding through the specific disciplines
of biology, chemistry and physics develop their ability to evaluate claims based
1
on science through critical analysis of the
develop understanding of the nature, processes methodology, evidence and conclusions, both
and methods of science, through different qualitatively and quantitatively.
types of scientific enquiries that help them to
answer scientific questions about the world
around them
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1c. What are the key features of this specification?
Building on research, and on the principles of Beyond cultural aspects of science that are of value and
2000, the Twenty First Century Science suite was interest to all
1 originally developed by the University of York Science
Education Group (UYSEG), the Nuffield Foundation develop learners abilities to evaluate
and OCR. knowledge claims critically, by looking at the
nature, quality and extent of the evidence,
The 2016 suite continues to recognise the diversity and at the arguments that link evidence to
of interests and future intentions of the learner conclusions
population who take a science qualification at GCSE
level. The specifications will prepare learners for develop learners understanding of the
progression to further study of science, whilst at the concepts and models that scientists use to
same time offering an engaging and satisfying course explain natural phenomena
for those who choose not to study academic science
further. develop learners ability to plan and carry out
practical investigations and their understanding
The Twenty First Century Science suite will: of the role of experimental work in developing
scientific explanations.
take opportunities to link science to issues
relevant to all learners as citizens, and to the
1d. How do I find out more information?

Whether new to our specifications, or continuing Want to find out more?
on from our legacy offerings, you can find more
information on our webpages at www.ocr.org.uk You can contact the Science Subject Specialists:
Visit our subject pages to find out more about the Email: ScienceGCSE@ocr.org.uk,
assessment package and resources available to Telephone: 01223 553998
support your teaching. The science team also
release a termly newsletter Science Spotlight Join our Science community: http://social.ocr.org.uk/
(despatched to centres and available from our
subject pages). Check what CPD events are available:
www.cpdhub.ocr.org.uk
Follow us on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ocr_science
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2 The specification overview
2a. OCRs GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) (J257)
Learners are entered for either Foundation Tier (components 01 and 02) or Higher Tier (components 03 and 04)
to be awarded the OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science).
Content Overview Assessment Overview

Foundation Tier, grades 1 to 5
2
Content is split into eight teaching chapters:
Breadth in biology
Chapter B1: You and your genes J257/01 50%

Chapter B2: Keeping healthy
Chapter B3: Living together food and
90 marks of total
1 hour 45 minutes

ecosystems
Chapter B4: Using food and controlling
Written paper GCSE
growth
Chapter B5: The human body staying alive
Chapter B6: Life on Earth past, present
Depth in biology

and future
Chapter B7: Ideas about Science
J257/02 50%
Chapter B8: Practical Skills 90 marks of total
1 hour 45 minutes
Both papers assess content from all eight
chapters.
Written paper GCSE
Higher Tier, grades 4 to 9
Content is split into eight teaching chapters:

Breadth in biology
Chapter B1: You and your genes J257/03 50%

Chapter B3: Living together food and
90 marks of total
1 hour 45 minutes

ecosystems
Chapter B4: Using food and controlling
Written paper GCSE
growth
Chapter B6: Life on Earth past, present
Depth in biology

and future
J257/04 50%
Chapter B8: Practical Skills 90 marks of total
1 hour 45 minutes
Both papers assess content from all eight
chapters.
Written paper GCSE
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2b. Content of GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) (J257)
Layout of specification content define the requirements for assessment and any
contexts given in the narrative may also be assessed.
The specification content is divided into eight
chapters. The first six chapters describe the science Within each chapter:
content to be taught and assessed. The seventh
chapter describes the Ideas about Science that An overview summarises the science ideas included in
2 should be taught, and will be assessed in contexts the chapter, explaining why these ideas are relevant to
taken from any of the preceding chapters. The Ideas learners living in the twenty first century and why it is
about Science cover the requirements of Working desirable for learners to understand them.
3 Scientifically. The final chapter describes the

requirements for practical skills. Following the overview is a summary of the knowledge
and understanding that learners should have gained
In the specification, the content that is assessable is from study at Key Stages 1 to 3. Some of these ideas
presented in two columns: the teaching and learning are repeated in the content of the specification and
narrative and the assessable learning outcomes. while this material need not be retaught, it can be
The narrative summarises the science story and drawn upon to develop ideas at GCSE (91).
provides context for the assessable learning
outcomes thereby supporting the teaching of the Learning at GCSE (91) is described in the tables
specification. The assessable learning outcomes that follow:
Teaching and learning Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

narrative opportunities
The teaching and learning The assessable learning outcomes The linked learning
narrative summarises the set out the level of knowledge and opportunities suggest ways
science story, including understanding that learners are expected to develop Ideas about
relevant Ideas about Science to demonstrate. The statements give Science and practical skills in
to provide contexts for the guidance on the breadth and depth of context, and also highlight
assessable learning outcomes. learning. links to ideas in other
The narrative is intended to chapters.
Emboldened statements will only be
support teaching and learning.
assessed in Higher Tier papers. Note, however, that Ideas
The requirements for
about Science and practical
assessment are defined by the The mathematical requirements in
skills may be taught, and
assessable learning outcomes Appendix 5d are referenced by the prefix
will be assessed, in any
and any contexts given in the M to link the mathematical skills required
context.
narrative may also be to the areas of biology content where
assessed. those mathematical skills could be linked
to learning.
Opportunities for carrying out practical
activities are indicated throughout the
specification and are referenced as PAG1
to PAG8 (Practical Activity Group, see
Chapter 8).
i Advisory notes clarify the depth of
cover required.
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The Assessment Objectives in Section 3b make clear in the assessments, and the Sample Assessment
the range of ways in which learners will be required Materials (provided on the OCR website at
to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding www.ocr.org.uk) provide examples.
Biology key ideas
Biology is the science of living organisms (including the environment and with humans in many
animals, plants, fungi and microorganisms) and their different ways 2
interactions with each other and the environment.
The study of biology involves collecting and living organisms are interdependent and show
interpreting information about the natural world to adaptations to their environment
identify patterns and relate possible cause and effect.
Biological information is used to help humans life on Earth is dependent on photosynthesis in
improve their own lives and strive to create a which green plants and algae trap light from
sustainable world for future generations. the Sun to fix carbon dioxide and combine it
with hydrogen from water to make organic
Learners should be helped to understand how, compounds and oxygen
through the ideas of biology, the complex and diverse
phenomena of the natural world can be described in organic compounds are used as fuels in
terms of a small number of key ideas which are of cellular respiration to allow the other chemical
universal application, and which include: reactions necessary for life
life processes depend on molecules whose the chemicals in ecosystems are continually
structure is related to their function cycling through the natural world
the fundamental units of living organisms are the characteristics of a living organism are
cells, which may be part of highly adapted influenced by its genome and its interaction
structures including tissues, organs and organ with the environment
systems, enabling living processes to be
performed effectively evolution occurs by a process of natural
selection and accounts both for biodiversity
living organisms may form populations of single and how organisms are all related to varying
species, communities of many species and degrees.
ecosystems, interacting with each other, with
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2
A summary of the content for the GCSE (91) Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) course is as follows:
8
Chapter B3: Living together

Chapter B1: You and your genes Chapter B2: Keeping healthy
food and ecosystems
B1.1 What is the genome and what does it B2.1 What are the causes of disease? B3.1 What happens during photosynthesis?
do? B2.2 How do organisms protect themselves against B3.2 How do producers get the substances
B1.2 How is genetic information inherited? pathogens? they need?
B1.3 How can and should gene technology be B2.3 How can we prevent the spread of infections? B3.3 How are organisms in an ecosystem
used? B2.4 How can we identify the cause of an infection? (separate interdependent?
science only) B3.4 How are populations affected by
B2.5 How can lifestyle, genes and the environment affect my conditions in an ecosystem?
health?
B2.6 How can we treat disease?
Chapter B4: Using food and Chapter B6: Life on Earth

controlling growth past, present and future
B4.1 What happens during cellular B5.1 How do substances get into, out of and around our B6.1 How was the theory of evolution
respiration? bodies? developed?
B4.2 How do we know about mitochondria B5.2 How does the nervous system help us respond to B6.2 How do sexual and asexual reproduction
and other cell structures? changes? affect evolution? (separate science only)
B4.3 How do organisms grow and develop? B5.3 How do hormones control responses in the human body? B6.3 How does our understanding of biology
B4.4 How is plant growth controlled? B5.4 Why do we need to maintain a constant internal help us classify the diversity of organisms
GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
(separate science only) environment? on Earth?

B4.5 Should we use stem cells to treat B5.5 What role do hormones play in human reproduction? B6.4 How is biodiversity threatened and how
damage and disease? B5.6 What can happen when organs and control systems stop can we protect it?
working?

IaS1 What needs to be considered when investigating a phenomenon scientifically?
IaS2 What conclusions can we make from data?
IaS3 How are scientific explanations developed?
IaS4 How do science and technology impact society?
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Chapter B8: Practical Skills

2c. Content of chapters B1 to B8
Chapter B1: You and your genes
Overview looks, develops and functions. Topic B1.2 explores

inheritance by considering the effects of
The inheritance of genetic information from each dominant and recessive alleles, the inheritance
generation to the next is a fundamental idea in
science; it can help us answer questions about why
of characteristics, the principles of inheritance
of single-gene characteristics and how sex is 2
we look the way we do, and build a foundation for determined.
later exploration of ideas about genetic diseases,
cell division and growth, and evolution. Understanding of the genome and emerging gene
technologies are at the cutting edge of science, and
Topic B1.1 explores basic concepts of the genome they promise powerful applications to benefit present
and how it affects an organisms characteristics, and future generations. But they also present ethical
through ideas about DNA and genes as the units of issues for individuals and society. Topic B1.3 explores
genetic information, the link between genes and some of the ideas people use to make decisions
proteins, and how the interaction between genes about applications of gene technology including
and the environment affects how an individual genetic testing and genetic engineering.
Learning about genes and inheritance before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: understand a simple model of chromosomes,
genes and DNA
know that living things produce offspring of the know about the part played by Watson, Crick,
same kind, but normally offspring vary and are Wilkins and Franklin in the development of the
not identical to their parents DNA model
know that heredity is the process by which know about sexual reproduction in animals,
genetic information is transmitted from one including the role of gametes and the process
generation to the next of fertilisation
know that genetic information is stored in the know about sexual and asexual reproduction in
nucleus plants, including flower structures and the
processes of pollination and fertilisation.
Tiering
Statements shown in bold type will only be tested in All other statements will be assessed in both
the Higher Tier papers. Foundation and Higher Tier papers.
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2
Learning about genes and inheritance at GCSE (91)
10
B1.1 What is the genome and what does it do?
Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Learners will be required to: opportunities
All organisms contain genetic material. Genetic material 1.
a)explain how the nucleus and genetic material of eukaryotic Practical work:
contains instructions that control how cells and organisms cells (plants and animals) and the genetic material, use a microscope
develop and function. Most of an organisms characteristics including plasmids, of prokaryotic cells are related to cell to look at a variety
depend on these instructions and are modified by interaction functions of plant and
with the environment. b)describe how to use a light microscope to observe a variety animal cells
of plant and animal cells extract DNA from
Genetic material in plant and animal cells is located in the
PAG1 plant tissue
nucleus, one of the main sub-cellular structures. In organisms
whose cells do not have a nucleus (e.g. bacteria) the genetic 2. describe the genome as the entire genetic material of an Specification links:
material is located in the cytoplasm. organism principles of
polymerisation,
All the genetic material of a cell is the organisms genome. In 3. describe DNA as a polymer made up of nucleotides, forming
and DNA and
most organisms the genome is packaged into chromosomes. two strands in a double helix
proteins as
Chromosomes are long molecules of DNA. Genes are sections
4. describe simply how the genome and its interaction with the examples of
of this DNA.
environment influence the development of the phenotype of polymers (C4.2)
In the cells of plants and animals, chromosomes occur in pairs. an organism, including the idea that most characteristics
The two chromosomes in a pair each carry the same genes. depend on instructions in the genome and are modified by
The two versions of each gene in the pair are called alleles, interaction of the organism with its environment
and can be the same or different. A different version of a gene

i Learners are not expected to describe epigenetic effects
is a genetic variant. The genotype of an organism is the
combination of alleles it has for each gene; the phenotype is 5. explain the terms chromosome, gene, allele, variant, genotype
the characteristic that results from this combination and and phenotype
interaction with the environment. Genes tell a cell how to 6. explain the importance of amino acids in the synthesis of
make proteins by joining together amino acids in a particular proteins, including the genome as instructions for the
order. polymerisation of amino acids to make proteins
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B1.1 What is the genome and what does it do?

DNA is a polymer in which the monomers are nucleotides. 7. describe DNA as a polymer made from four different Ideas about Science:
Each nucleotide includes one of four different bases (adenine, nucleotides, each nucleotide consisting of a common sugar and using letters to
thymine, cytosine or guanine). phosphate group with one of four different bases attached to model the genetic
the sugar code (IaS3)
The order of bases in a genome is the genetic code. The
(separate science only)
genetic code is modelled using letters (A, T, C, G) to represent
the bases (IaS3). The order (sequence) of bases in a gene is 8. explain simply how the sequence of bases in DNA codes for
the code for protein synthesis. the proteins made in protein synthesis, including the idea that
each set of three nucleotides is the code for an amino acid
Each set of three nucleotides is the code for an amino acid.
The properties of the protein that is made depend on which
amino acids are present and their order. 9. recall a simple description of protein synthesis, in which:
a copy of a gene is made from messenger RNA (mRNA)
the mRNA travels to a ribosome in the cytoplasm
the ribosome joins amino acids together in an order
determined by the mRNA
i Learners are not expected to recall details of transcription
and translation
The order of bases in DNA can be changed if one or more 10. recall that all genetic variants arise from mutations
nucleotides is deleted, inserted or substituted for a different (separate science only)
nucleotide; these are mutations, and create genetic variants.
11. describe how genetic variants in coding DNA may influence
If the sequence of bases in a gene is changed by mutation, a phenotype by altering the activity of a protein
protein made from it may function differently or not at all, (separate science only)
though in some cases, the mutation wont have any effect.
12. describe how genetic variants in non-coding DNA may
Some sections of DNA do not code for a protein, but they influence phenotype by altering how genes are expressed
control whether particular genes are expressed, and (separate science only)
therefore whether particular proteins are made. Thus,
mutations in these sections can also affect phenotype by
altering gene expression.
11
2
2
12
B1.2 How is genetic information inherited?

During sexual reproduction, each offspring inherits two 1. explain the terms gamete, homozygous, heterozygous, Practical work:
alleles of each gene; one allele from each gamete. The two dominant and recessive microscopy of pollen
alleles can be two copies of the same genetic variant tubes on agar (nuclei
2. explain single gene inheritance, including dominant and
(homozygous) or different variants (heterozygous). A variant visible under high power)
recessive alleles and use of genetic diagrams
can be dominant or recessive, and the combination of alleles
Ideas about Science:
determines what effect the gene has. 3. predict the results of single gene crosses
use genetic diagrams
Genetic diagrams such as family trees and Punnett squares 4. use direct proportions and simple ratios in genetic crosses (e.g. family trees and
can be used to model and predict outcomes of the M1c Punnett squares) to
inheritance of characteristics that are determined by a single 5. use the concept of probability in predicting the outcome of model and predict
gene (IaS3). However, most characteristics depend on the genetic crosses outcomes of single gene
instructions in multiple genes and other parts of the genome. M2e inheritance (IaS3)
distinguish data from
Principles of inheritance of (single gene) characteristics were 6. recall that most phenotypic features are the result of explanatory ideas in an
demonstrated in ideas developed by Gregor Mendel, using multiple genes rather than single gene inheritance account of Mendels
pea plants. Mendels work illustrates how scientists develop
i Learners are not expected to describe epistasis and its work, and explain how
explanations that account for data they have collected (IaS3).
effects Mendels explanations
Our understanding of genetics has developed greatly since
accounted for the data
Mendel did his work; we now know that most 7. describe the development of our understanding of he collected (IaS3)
characteristics depend upon interactions between genetic genetics including the work of Mendel and the modern-
variants in multiple parts of the genome. Today, scientists day use of genome sequencing
sequence whole genomes to investigate how genetic (separate science only)
variants influence an organisms characteristics.
A human individuals sex is determined by the inheritance of 8. describe sex determination in humans
genes located on sex chromosomes; specifically, genes on the
Y chromosome trigger the development of testes.
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B1.3 How can and should gene technology be used?

Comparing the genomes of individuals with and without a disease 1. discuss the potential importance for medicine of our Specification links:
can help to identify genetic variants associated with the disease. increasing understanding of the human genome, the involvement of
Once identified, we can test for these variants in adults, children, including the discovery of alleles associated with genetic and other
fetuses and embryos, to investigate their risk of developing diseases and the genetic testing of individuals to risk factors in the
certain diseases. We can also assess the risk of adults passing inform family planning and healthcare development of
these variants to their offspring (including the identification of diseases such as
2. describe genetic engineering as a process which
carriers of recessive variants). Genetic testing can also help cardiovascular disease,
involves modifying the genome of an organism to
doctors to prescribe the correct drugs to a patient (personalised cancer and type 2
introduce desirable characteristics
medicine), by testing for variants that affect how drugs will work diabetes (B2.5)
in their body. 3. describe the main steps in the process of genetic how can we treat
engineering disease? (B2.6)
Another application of gene technology is genetic engineering,
in which the genome is modified to change an organisms including: Ideas about Science:
characteristics. Genetic engineering has been used to introduce isolating and replicating the required gene(s) genetic testing and
characteristics into organisms such as bacteria and plants that are putting the gene(s) into a vector (e.g. a plasmid) genetic engineering as
useful to humans. using the vector to insert the gene(s) into cells applications of science
selecting modified cells that have made a
Gene technology could help us provide for the needs of society
4. explain some of the possible benefits and risks, positive difference to
by improving healthcare and producing food for the growing
including practical and ethical considerations, of using peoples lives (IaS4)
population. But with genetic testing we must also consider how
gene technology in modern agriculture and medicine discuss risks, benefits,
the results will be used and by whom, and the risks of false
ethical issues and
positives/negatives and miscarriage (when sampling amniotic
regulation associated
fluid). With genetic engineering there are concerns about the
with gene technology
spread of inserted genes to other organisms, the need for long-
(IaS4)
term studies to check for adverse reactions, and moral concerns
about modifying genomes (IaS4).
13
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Overview issues of risk and decision making, for example with

regard to vaccination.
Issues of risk, ethics and social responsibility related
to disease prevention and treatment in humans and Topic B2.4 develops understanding of ways in which
plants are often in the news. Understanding the diseases can be identified in the lab and in the field,
science of health and disease enables us to consider and how new technologies offer the potential to
2 the issues critically, and to explore possible answers. improve lives.
In Topic B2.1, learners explore how different In Topics B2.4 and B2.5, the way that lifestyle,
pathogens are spread and cause disease, with environmental and genetic factors affect the
reference to some common communicable diseases risk of developing non-communicable diseases is
of humans and plants, then in Topic B2.2 they explored, with reference to ideas about health
consider how the immune system in humans and studies, sampling, correlation and cause. Finally,
plants protects against infection. learners learn about ways of treating diseases
in Topics B2.5 and B2.6 and explore issues related to
Topic B2.3 looks at ways in which individuals and the development and testing of new medicines.
society can reduce the spread of diseases, linked to
Learning about health and disease before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: healthy human diet includes carbohydrates,
lipids (fats and oils), proteins, vitamins,
appreciate that good hygiene helps humans minerals, dietary fibre and water
keep healthy recall some of the consequences of imbalances
be able to identify and name the main parts of in the diet, including obesity, starvation and
the human circulatory system, and describe the deficiency diseases
functions of the heart, blood vessels and blood recognise the impact of diet, exercise, drugs
appreciate the importance of bacteria in the and lifestyle on the way their bodies function
human digestive system recall some of the effects of recreational drugs
know that animals, including humans, need the (including substance misuse) on behaviour,
right types and amount of nutrition, and that a health and life processes.
Tiering
OCR 2016
Learning about health and disease at GCSE (91)
OCR 2016
B2.1 What are the causes of disease?

The health of most organisms will be compromised by disease 1. describe the relationship between health and disease Practical work:
during their lifetime. Physical and mental health can be model the spread of
2. describe different types of diseases (including
compromised by disease caused by infection by a pathogen, an infection using liquids
communicable and non-communicable diseases)
organisms genes, environment or lifestyle, or trauma. Disease (where one is
damages host cells and impairs functions, causing symptoms. 3. explain how communicable diseases (caused by infected with an
However, an unhealthy organism may not always show symptoms of viruses, bacteria, protists and fungi) are spread in invisible chemical that
disease, particularly during the incubation period after infection animals and plants can be detected
with a pathogen. 4. describe common human infections including influenza experimentally)
(viral), Salmonella (bacterial), Athletes foot (fungal) culture and
Some diseases are communicable: they are caused by infection with
and malaria (protist) and sexually transmitted microscopy of swabs
pathogenic bacteria, viruses, protists and fungi, and can be spread
infections in humans including HIV/AIDS (viral) from different
from organism to organism in bodily fluids, on surfaces, and in food
surfaces
and water. Other diseases are non-communicable: they are not 5. describe plant diseases including tobacco mosaic virus
caused by infection but are associated with genetic, environmental (viral), ash dieback (fungal) and crown gall disease
and lifestyle factors. (bacterial)
Some common diseases illustrate different types of pathogen and
common routes of spread and infection, including:
In humans: influenza (viral), Salmonella food poisoning (bacterial),
Athletes foot (fungal), malaria (protist) and HIV (viral STI).
In plants: tobacco mosaic virus (viral), ash dieback (fungal) and
crown gall disease (bacterial).
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16
B2.2 How do organisms protect themselves against pathogens?

Humans have physical, chemical and bacterial defences that make it 1. describe non-specific defence systems of the human
difficult for pathogens to enter the blood. These include the skin body against pathogens, including examples of
and mucus, stomach acid, saliva, tears, and bacteria in the gut. physical, chemical and microbial defences
Platelets help to seal wounds to reduce the chance of pathogens
2. explain how platelets are adapted to their function in
entering the blood.
the blood
These defences are always present, and are not produced in
3. describe physical plant defences, including leaf cuticle
response to a specific pathogen.
and cell wall
Plants have physical defences against pathogens, including the leaf (separate science only)
cuticle and cell wall.
The immune system of the human body works to protect us against 4. explain the role of the immune system of the human
disease caused by pathogens. body in defence against disease
White blood cells destroy pathogens. White blood cells have
receptors that recognise antigens on pathogens, to distinguish 5. explain how white blood cells are adapted to their
between non-self and self. Different types of white blood cell are functions in the blood, including what they do and how
adapted to either ingest and digest pathogens, or produce it helps protect against disease
antibodies to disable them or tag them for attack by other white
blood cells. An antibody is specific for (only recognises) a particular
antigen. Once the body has made antibodies against a pathogen,

memory cells stay in the body to make antibodies quickly upon
re-infection (immunity).
Plants do not have circulating immune cells or produce antibodies, 6. describe chemical plant defence responses, including
but they have a simple immune system that protects them against antimicrobial substances
pathogens. For example, plants can make antimicrobial substances (separate science only)
in response to pathogens. The ability of plants to protect
themselves against pathogens is important in human food security.
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B2.3 How can we prevent the spread of infections?

Reducing and preventing the spread of communicable diseases in 1. explain how the spread of communicable diseases may Practical work:
animals and plants helps prevent loss of life, destruction of habitats be reduced or prevented in animals and plants, to investigate microbial
and loss of food sources. For plants, strategies include regulating the include a minimum of one common human infection, growth on different
movement of plant material, sourcing healthy plants and seeds, one plant disease and sexually transmitted infections in foods and surfaces in
destroying infected plants, polyculture, crop rotation, and chemical humans including HIV/AIDS different conditions.
and biological control. For animals, including humans, strategies
2. explain the use of vaccines in the prevention of Ideas about Science:
include vaccination (to establish immunity), contraception, hygiene,
disease, including the use of safe forms of pathogens discuss risk and
sanitation, sterilising wounds, restricting travel, and destruction of
and the need to vaccinate a large proportion of the decision making in
infected animals.
population the context of disease
The likely effectiveness, benefits, risks and cost of each strategy prevention (IaS4)
must be considered, and an individuals right to decide balanced
with what is best for society (IaS4).
17
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18
B2.4 How can we identify the cause of an infection? (separate science only)

In order to decide upon a course of treatment for a 1.
a)describe ways in which diseases, including plant diseases, Practical work:
communicable disease, it is important to identify the disease can be detected and identified, in the lab and in the field investigate the
and the pathogen causing it. There are standard ways to do b)describe how to use a light microscope to observe effect of antibiotic
this, including observing symptoms and taking samples of microorganisms discs on growth of
tissue or body fluid for cell counting, culture, microscopy, PAG1 microorganisms on
staining, testing with antimicrobials, and genome analysis. In agar plates
2. describe and explain the aseptic techniques used in culturing
addition, isolation and reinfection can be used to identify practice aseptic
organisms
plant pathogens. Correct identification relies on use of techniques
PAG7
aseptic techniques to avoid contamination of samples.
3. calculate cross-sectional areas of bacterial cultures and of clear
zones around antibiotic discs on agar jelly using r2
M5c
PAG7
Monoclonal antibodies can be produced in the laboratory, 4. describe how monoclonal antibodies are produced Ideas about Science:
using cultured clones of a white blood cell to produce use of monoclonal
including the following steps:
antibodies against a particular antigen. All the antibodies antibodies as a
antigen injected into an animal
produced by the clones recognise the same antigen. technological
antibody-producing cells taken from animal
application of
New technologies using monoclonal antibodies are cells producing the correct antibody selected then
science that could

providing diagnostic tests (e.g. for diseases) with greater cultured
make a significant
sensitivity and specificity. These tests give faster and more
5. describe some of the ways in which monoclonal antibodies differences to
accurate results, which enables decisions (e.g. about
can be used in diagnostic tests peoples lives (IaS4)
treatment) to be made more quickly and based on more
accurate information (IaS4).
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B2.5 How can lifestyle, genes and the environment affect health?

Whether or not a person develops a non- 1.
a)describe how the interaction of genetic and lifestyle factors can Specification links:
communicable disease depends on many factors, increase or decrease the risk of developing non-communicable what causes cancer
including the genetic variants they inherited, their human diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, many forms (B4.3)
environment and aspects of their lifestyle. The of cancer, some lung and liver diseases and diseases influenced diseases caused by
interaction of genetic and lifestyle factors can by nutrition, including type 2 diabetes genes (B1.3)
increase or decrease the risk. b)describe how to practically investigate the effect of exercise on
Practical work:
pulse rate and recovery rate
investigate the
PAG6
amounts of fat and
2. use given data to explain the incidence of non-communicable sugar in foods/drinks
diseases at local, national and global levels with reference to lifestyle measure blood
factors, including exercise, diet, alcohol and smoking pressure, recovery rate
3.
in the context of data related to the causes, spread, effects and Ideas about Science:
treatment of disease: discuss correlation,
a)translate information between graphical and numerical forms cause and risk in the
M4a context of non-
b)construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams, bar communicable
charts and histograms diseases (IaS3, IaS4)
M4a, M4c
c)understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data
M2d
d)use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two
variables
M2g
Different types of disease can interact, such as when 4. describe interactions between different types of disease
having a disease increases or decreases the risk of
developing or contracting another.
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20

Humans have developed medicines that can control or eliminate the 1. explain the use of medicines, including antibiotics, in Specification links:
cause of some diseases and/or reduce the length or severity of the treatment of disease personalised
symptoms. Antibiotics are becoming less effective due to the medicine (B1.3)
2. calculate cross-sectional areas of bacterial cultures
appearance of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. antibiotic resistance
and of clear zones around antibiotic discs on agar jelly
in microorganisms
For non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, using r2
(B6.1)
strategies that lower the risk of developing the disease have benefits M5c
compared to treatments administered later. PAG7 Ideas about Science:
risk and decision
Many factors need to be considered when prescribing treatments, 3. evaluate some different treatments for cardiovascular
making in the context
including the likely effectiveness, risk of adverse reactions and the disease, including lifestyle changes, medicines and
of medicines and
costs and benefits to the patient and others (IaS4). surgery
treatment (IaS4)
Studying the genomes and proteins of pathogens and host cells can 4. describe the process of discovery and development of Ideas about Science:
suggest targets for new medicines. Large libraries of substances are potential new medicines including preclinical and ethics in the context
screened for their ability to affect a target. It is unlikely that a perfect clinical testing of using placebos in
medicine will be found during screening, but substances are selected clinical testing of new
for modification and further tests. medicines (IaS4)
All new medicines have to be tested before they are made widely
available. Preclinical testing, for safety and effectiveness, uses

cultured human cells and animals. Clinical testing uses healthy
human volunteers to test for safety, and humans with the disease to
test for safety and effectiveness. Open-label, blind and double-
blind trials can be used. There are ethical questions around using
placebos in tests on people with a disease (IaS4).
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
Some traditional treatments (e.g. radiotherapy and chemotherapy 5. describe how monoclonal antibodies can be used to Ideas about Science:
for cancer) cause adverse reactions. New technologies are enabling treat cancer use of monoclonal
us to develop treatments that are more effective and have a lower antibodies as a
including:
risk of adverse reactions. For example, the specificity of monoclonal technological
produce monoclonal antibodies specific to a
antibodies can be used to target cancer cells without damaging application of science
cancer cell antigen
normal host cells. that could make a
inject the antibodies into the blood
difference to peoples
the antibodies bind to cancer cells, tagging them
lives (IaS4)
for attack by white blood cells
the antibodies can also be attached to a
radioactive or toxic substance to deliver it to
cancer cells
21
2
Chapter B3: Living together food and ecosystems
Overview fundamental concepts in biology, including enzyme

action and the movement of substances by diffusion,
All living organisms depend on the ability of osmosis and active transport.
photosynthetic organisms to synthesise glucose
from carbon dioxide and water in the presence Learners expand their knowledge of the
of light, and on feeding relationships to transfer interdependencies between organisms within
2 biomass through communities. ecosystems in Topic B3.3, through understanding
of food webs, competition for resources, and the
From study at earlier Key Stages, learners will be cycling of substances.
familiar with the reactants and products of
photosynthesis, and the need for light in the Finally, Topic B3.4 considers the effects that
process. In Topics B3.1 and B3.2 the context environmental changes and human activities can
of photosynthesis is used to explore several have on interacting populations within ecosystems.
Learning about food and ecosystems before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: know that animals obtain their food
from plants (and other animals that ate
understand the similarities and differences plants)
between plant and animal cells understand the difference between carnivores,
know that some organisms make their own herbivores and omnivores, and between
food using photosynthesis producers and consumers
know that photosynthesis in plant cells occurs know that individuals of the same type living in
in the chloroplasts the same place make up a population, and that
know the reactants in, and products of, all the interacting populations in an ecosystem
photosynthesis, and be able to write a word make up the community
summary understand the use of food chains and food
know that photosynthesis requires light webs as models of the feeding relationships
be familiar with the adaptations of leaves for within a community
photosynthesis, and the role of stomata in gas appreciate the interdependence of organisms
exchange in a community, including food webs, the
know that water and minerals enter a plant breakdown and cycling of substances, and
through the roots animals as pollinators
know that molecules of a solute move through know that changes in an ecosystem can affect
solvent, and through cell membranes, by the survival of individuals and populations.
diffusion
Tiering
Statements shown in bold type will only be tested will be assessed in both Foundation and Higher
in the Higher Tier papers. All other statements Tier papers.
OCR 2016
Learning about food and ecosystems at GCSE (91)
OCR 2016
B3.1 What happens during photosynthesis?

Producers make glucose using photosynthesis. Some of the 1.
a)describe the process of photosynthesis, including the Practical work:
glucose is used as the fuel for cellular respiration, some is inputs and outputs of the two mains stages and the on a whole plant,
converted into starch and then stored, and the rest is used to requirement of light in the first stage, and describe wrap one leaf in foil,
make lipids, proteins and other carbohydrates for growth. photosynthesis as an endothermic process and enclose another
b)describe practical investigations into the requirements leaf in a conical flask
Photosynthesis involves many chemical reactions, but can be
and products of photosynthesis with a small amount
summarised in two main stages. The first stage requires light
PAG5 of KOH (to remove
and chlorophyll (located in chloroplasts in plant cells) to split
CO2); after 24h, test
water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is 2. explain how chloroplasts in plant cells are related to
leaves for starch
transferred to the second stage, but the oxygen is released photosynthesis
into the atmosphere as a waste product. The second stage
combines carbon dioxide with hydrogen to make glucose.
The reactions in photosynthesis and many other biological 3.
a)explain the mechanism of enzyme action including the Practical work:
processes are catalysed by enzymes. active site, enzyme specificity and factors affecting the investigate effects
rate of enzyme-catalysed reactions, including substrate of substrate
The lock and key model can be used to explain enzyme action.
concentration, temperature and pH concentration,
It can also be used to make predictions about the effect on the
b)describe practical investigations into the effect of temperature and pH
rate of enzyme-catalysed reactions when the substrate
substrate concentration, temperature and pH on the on enzyme activity
concentration, temperature and pH are changed (IaS3).
rate of enzyme controlled reactions
M2b, M2f, M4a, M4b, M4c
lock and key model to
PAG4
explain and make
predictions about
enzyme activity (IaS3)
23
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24
B3.1 What happens during photosynthesis?

Understanding of how factors affect enzyme activity helps to 4.
a)explain the effect of temperature, light intensity and Practical work:
explain the effects of temperature and carbon dioxide carbon dioxide concentration on the rate of investigate rate of
concentration on the rate of photosynthesis. The effect of photosynthesis photosynthesis by
light intensity is explained by the need for light to bring about b)describe practical investigations into the effect of collecting gas or
reactions in photosynthesis. Light intensity is inversely environmental factors on the rate of photosynthesis counting bubbles
proportional to the square of the distance from the light PAG5 from pondweed
source (the inverse square law); this helps us explain why the use a datalogger to
5. use the inverse square law to explain changes in the rate of
rate of photosynthesis changes in the way that it does with measure oxygen
photosynthesis with distance from a light source
distance from a point light source. concentration, pH,
6. explain the interaction of temperature, light intensity and temperature and light
carbon dioxide concentration in limiting the rate of intensity over 24h for
photosynthesis, and use graphs depicting the effects pondweed
7.
in the context of the rate of photosynthesis:
a)understand and use simple compound measures such as
the rate of a reaction
M1a, M1c
b)translate information between graphical and numerical
form
M4a
c)plot and draw appropriate graphs selecting appropriate
scales for axes
M4a, M4c
d)extract and interpret information from graphs, charts
and tables
M2c
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B3.2 How do producers get the substances they need?
The ways in which photosynthetic organisms 1. describe some of the substances transported into and out of Practical work:
take in carbon dioxide and water for photosynthetic organisms in terms of the requirements of those organisms, investigate diffusion
photosynthesis, and release the waste product including oxygen, carbon dioxide, water and mineral ions using drops of ink in
oxygen, illustrate the principles of diffusion 2.
a)explain how substances are transported into and out of cells through water and in agar in
and osmosis. Generally, molecules move from diffusion, osmosis and active transport Petri dishes on graph
a region of their higher concentration to a b)describe practical investigations into the processes of diffusion and paper
region of their lower concentration; the osmosis investigate diffusion
difference in concentration drives a change PAG8 across a partially
towards equal concentration. Carbon dioxide i Learners are not expected to explain osmosis in terms of water permeable membrane
and oxygen molecules move by diffusion, potential using starch
through cell membranes in single-cellular suspension in dialysis
(prokaryotic) producers, and through stomata 3. explain how the partially-permeable cell membranes of plant cells and tubing in a beaker of
and cell membranes in plants. Water prokaryotic cells are related to diffusion, osmosis and active transport water; compare adding
molecules move by osmosis through cell 4. explain how water and mineral ions are taken up by plants, relating the idione solution inside
membranes; projections from root cells (root structure of the root hair cells to their function versus outside the
hairs) of plants increase the surface area for tubing
osmosis. investigate the effect
of solute concentration
The way in which photosynthetic organisms
on osmosis using
take in nitrogen (to make proteins) illustrates
potato cylinders in
the process of active transport. Producers get
sugar solution
nitrogen from nitrate ions (NO3). Molecules of
water and gases can diffuse through partially-
permeable cell membranes but nitrate ions
cannot; producers use energy from molecules
of ATP to transport nitrate ions through the
cell membrane by active transport.
25
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26
B3.2 How do producers get the substances they need?

Plants do not have blood to transport 5.
a)explain how the structure of the xylem and phloem are adapted to Practical work:
substances around the organism; they have their functions in the plant use eosin stain to
transport vessels formed from xylem and b)describe how to use a light microscope to observe the structure of the observe xylem in
phloem. xylem and phloem broad bean plant stem
PAG1 under hand lens and
Water and ions (e.g. nitrate) in aqueous
6.
a)describe the processes of transpiration and translocation, including the microscope
solution are moved through xylem from the
structure and function of the stomata observe stomata (paint
roots and up the stem/trunk by transpiration,
b)describe how to use a light microscope to observe the structure of two thin layers of nail
to replace water that evaporates from the
stomata varnish onto a leaf, put
plant surface and diffuses out of open
PAG1 clear tape over then
stomata.
c)describe how to use a simple potometer peel off, stick to
Sugars are moved through phloem from microscope slide)
PAG6
photosynthetic to non-photosynthetic tissues
by translocation. Sugars are loaded into i Learners are not expected to describe transpiration in terms of tension or
phloem by active transport, then water moves pressure, and are not expected to describe translocation in terms of water
into the concentrated solution by osmosis and potential or hydrostatic pressure
pushes the substances along the tube. 7.
a)explain the effect of a variety of environmental factors on the rate of
The rate of water uptake by a plant can be water uptake by a plant, to include light intensity, air movement, and
affected by environmental factors. Light temperature
intensity and temperature affect the rate of b)describe practical investigations into the effect of environmental
photosynthesis (and therefore the demand for factors on the rate of water uptake by a plant
water), while air movement and temperature PAG6
affect the rate of water loss from aerial parts 8. in the context of water uptake by plants:
of the plant. a)use simple compound measures such as rate
M1a, M1c
b)carry out rate calculations
M1a, M1c
c)plot, draw and interpret appropriate graphs
M4a, M4b, M4c, M4d
OCR 2016
d)calculate percentage gain and loss of mass

M1c
OCR 2016
B3.3 How are organisms in an ecosystem interdependent?
Producers take in carbon and nitrogen compounds from 1.
a)explain the importance of sugars, fatty acids and glycerol, Practical work:
their environment and use them (along with oxygen, and amino acids in the synthesis and breakdown of investigate the
hydrogen and other elements) to make small organic carbohydrates, lipids and proteins breakdown of
molecules including sugars, fatty acids, glycerol and amino b)describe the use of qualitative tests for biological molecules starch into sugars
acids. These small molecules are used to make larger PAG2 using amylase and
organic molecules, such as long-chain carbohydrates, lipids test strips
2. describe photosynthetic organisms as the main producers of food
and proteins. The larger molecules are used to build new
and therefore biomass for life on Earth Ideas about Science:
structures (e.g. membranes, organelles).
use a food web as a
3. describe some of the substances transported into organisms in
Consumers can only get their supply of carbon and model to explain
terms of the requirements of those organisms, including
nitrogen compounds by eating producers (or other interdependence in a
dissolved food molecules
consumers that ate producers) and digesting the biomass. community, identify
This releases the small molecules so they can be absorbed 4. describe different levels of organisation in an ecosystem from limitations of the
and then used to build biomass in the consumer. individual organisms to the whole ecosystem model, and use it to
5. explain the importance of interdependence and competition in a make predictions
The transfer of biomass between organisms is one way in
community about the effects
which the populations in a community are interdependent,
that a change in the
and can be modelled using a food web (IaS3). The amount 6. describe the differences between the trophic levels of organisms ecosystem could
of biomass present at each trophic level is not shown by a within an ecosystem have on the
food web, but can be modelled using a pyramid of biomass (separate science only) interacting
(IaS3).
7. describe pyramids of biomass and explain, with examples, how populations (IaS3)
The size of each population in a community is limited by pyramids of biomass
biomass is lost between the different trophic levels
predation and competition for food and other resources as models of biomass
including space, water, light, shelter, mates, pollinators and transfer in a food
seed dispersers. 8. calculate the efficiency of biomass transfers between trophic chain (IaS3)
levels and explain how this affects the number of organisms at
each trophic level
M1c
27
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B3.3 How are organisms in an ecosystem interdependent?

Substances essential to life, including water and carbon, 9. recall that many different substances cycle through the abiotic Practical work:
cycle through the biotic and abiotic components of and biotic components of an ecosystem, including carbon and culture
ecosystems so that they can be used and reused by water microorganisms on
organisms. Water cycles through precipitation, food chains, starch agar, stain
10. explain the importance of the carbon cycle and the water cycle to
transpiration, excretion, runoff, flow through streams/ with iodine solution;
living organisms
rivers/oceans, and evaporation. Carbon cycles through clear areas beyond
photosynthesis, food chains, cellular respiration, 11. explain the role of microorganisms in the cycling of substances cultures show
decomposition and combustion. Decomposition is through an ecosystem digestion by
catalysed by enzymes released by microorganisms. 12. calculate the percentage of mass, in the context of the use and extracellular amylase
Rate of decomposition is affected by environmental cycling of substances in ecosystems
factors: temperature affects enzymes and the rate of M1c
reactions; microorganisms need water to survive and many 13. explain the effect of factors such as temperature and water
need oxygen for aerobic respiration. Landfill sites are often content on rate of decomposition in aerobic and anaerobic
oxygen deficient, leading to an increase in anaerobic environments
decomposition which produces methane a gas with a (separate science only)
much greater greenhouse effect than the carbon dioxide
produced by aerobic decomposition. 14. calculate rate changes in the decay of biological material
M1c
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B3.4 How are populations affected by conditions in an ecosystem?

The distribution and abundance of organisms in an 1. explain how some abiotic and biotic factors affect communities, Practical work:
ecosystem depends on abiotic and biotic factors. The size including environmental conditions, toxic chemicals, availability investigate the
of one or more populations in a community may be of food and other resources, and the presence of predators and distribution and
affected if the environmental conditions change, or if a pathogens abundance of
new substance, competitor, predator or pathogen is organisms in an
2. describe how to carry out a field investigation into the
introduced. A substance can bioaccumulate in a food chain ecosystem
distribution and abundance of organisms in an ecosystem and
to toxic concentration, and some can cause eutrophication
explain how to determine their numbers in a given area Ideas about Science:
(IaS4). A change in the size of a population will affect other
M2d bioaccumulation and
populations in the same community.
PAG3 eutrophication as
The distribution and abundance of organisms, and unintended impacts
3. in the context of data related to organisms within a population:
changing conditions, within an ecosystem can be of human activity on
a)calculate arithmetic means
investigated using techniques including: identification keys; the environment
M2b, M2f
transects and quadrats; capture, mark, release and (IaS4)
b)use fractions and percentages
recapture; sampling indicator species; and using
M1c
instruments to measure abiotic factors such as
c)plot and draw appropriate graphs selecting appropriate
temperature, light intensity, soil moisture and pH.
scales for the axes
M4a, M4c
d)extract and interpret information from charts, graphs and
tables
M2c
29
2
Chapter B4: Using food and controlling growth
Overview explanations were only developed once a

technological development made certain
All living organisms depend on molecules of glucose observations possible. Topic B4.3 links growth in
obtained from photosynthesis (or from biomass multicellular organisms to the division of cells
obtained through food chains that start with during the cell cycle, and explores the nature of
photosynthetic organisms). The glucose is used for stem cells and the role of cell differentiation. As a
2 cellular respiration and in the synthesis of larger development of ideas, learners consider how cancer
organic molecules used for growth. results from changes in DNA that cause a loss of
control of cell division.
From study at earlier Key Stages, learners will be
familiar with the reactants and products of cellular The role of plant hormones in controlling plant
respiration. In Topic B4.1 they explore how growth and environmental responses is explored in
cellular respiration increases the amount of energy Topic B4.4, and these ideas applied to use of these
associated with cellular energy stores, in particular hormones by humans to control plant growth to our
molecules of ATP that are essential for many life advantage.
processes. In Topic B4.2 they consider briefly how
we came to know what we do about organelles such Finally, Topics B4.4 and B4.5 explore the question
as mitochondria, using the context of electron of whether stem cells should be used to regenerate
microscopy to illustrate the idea that some scientific tissue and treat disease.
Learning about cellular respiration and growth before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: be familiar with the tissues and organs of the
human digestive system, including adaptations
be familiar with the processes of aerobic and to function
anaerobic respiration in living organisms, and understand in simple terms that the human
fermentation in microorganisms, including digestive system uses chemicals (including
word summaries of the reactions enzymes) to digest food
be able to recall the differences between appreciate the importance of bacteria in the
aerobic and anaerobic respiration in terms of human digestive system
the reactants, products and implications for the know how nutrients and water are transported
organism within animals, including humans.
Tiering
OCR 2016
Learning about cellular respiration and growth at GCSE (91)
OCR 2016
B4.1 What happens during cellular respiration?

Consumers gain biomass from other organisms when they eat 1. compare the processes of aerobic and anaerobic Practical work:
them. Some of this biomass is converted into molecules of glucose, respiration, including conditions under which they investigate the
the fuel for cellular respiration. occur, the inputs and outputs, and comparative yields amount of energy
of ATP released from
Cellular respiration involves many chemical reactions and makes
different foods, by
molecules of ATP. It occurs in the cytoplasm and mitochondria of 2. explain why cellular respiration occurs continuously in
burning them under a
animal and plant cells, and in the cytoplasm of microorganisms. all living cells
boiling tube of water
ATP is required for processes that are essential for life, including
3. explain how mitochondria in eukaryotic cells (plants where:
breakdown and synthesis of molecules, active transport and muscle
and animals) are related to cellular respiration energy (kJ) = mass of
contraction.
4. describe cellular respiration as an exothermic process water (kg) x change in
Aerobic respiration breaks down glucose and combines the temperature (deg C) x
breakdown products with oxygen, making water and carbon dioxide 5.
a)describe practical investigations into the effect of 4.2 kJ/kg/deg C)
(a waste product). different substrates on the rate of respiration in investigate respiration
yeast in microorganisms by
In conditions of low or no oxygen (such as in human cells during
PAG5 collecting CO2 given
vigorous exercise, plant root cells in waterlogged soil and bacteria in
b)carry out rate calculations for chemical reactions off; which substrate
puncture wounds) anaerobic respiration occurs. There is a partial
in the context of cellular respiration works best?
breakdown of glucose, producing fewer molecules of ATP. In animal
M1a, M1c
cells and some bacteria, this produces lactic acid (a waste product).
In plants and some microorganisms, including yeast, it produces
ethanol and carbon dioxide.
31
2
2
32
B4.2 How do we know about mitochondria and other cell structures?

Scientific progress often relies on technological developments 1. explain how electron microscopy has increased our Ideas about Science:
which enable new observations to be made. The invention of understanding of sub-cellular structures explanations about the
the electron microscope enabled us to observe cell organelles roles of cell organelles
2.
in the context of cells and sub-cellular structures:
such as mitochondria and chloroplasts at much higher were developed from
a)demonstrate an understanding of number, size and
magnification than had previously been possible with light observations that could
scale and the quantitative relationship between units
microscopes, and thus to develop explanations about how only be made using
M2a, M2h
their structures relate to their roles in cellular processes electron microscopy
b)use estimations and explain when they should be used
(IaS3). (IaS3)
M1d
c)calculate with numbers written in standard form
M1b
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B4.3 How do organisms grow and develop?

Growth of multicellular organisms involves an increase in the 1.
a)describe the role of the cell cycle in growth, including Practical work:
number of body cells. All new cells are created from existing interphase and mitosis investigate mitosis using
cells when they divide. New body cells are created as part of b)describe how to use a light microscope to observe a microscope to look at
the cell cycle. During interphase the cell grows larger, the stages of mitosis stained cells from onion
numbers of organelles increase, and each chromosome is PAG1 root tip
copied; then during mitosis the chromosome copies separate,
i Learners are not expected to recall intermediate phases
the nucleus divides, and the cell divides to produce two new
cells that are genetically identical to one another. 2. describe cancer as the result of changes in cells that lead to
uncontrolled growth and division
Cancer is a non-communicable disease in humans caused by
changes in a persons DNA. The changes cause a cell to divide
many times by mitosis, which can create a tumour.
Gametes are produced by meiosis, a different type of cell 3. explain the role of meiotic cell division in halving the Specification links:
division. After interphase (during which the chromosome chromosome number to form gametes, including the stages factors that increase
number has doubled), two meiotic divisions occur. Gametes of interphase and two meiotic divisions the risk of developing
contain half the number of chromosomes found in body cells cancer (B2.5)
i Learners are not expected to recall intermediate phases
(one chromosome from each pair). At fertilisation, maternal
and paternal chromosomes pair up, so the zygote has the
normal chromosome number.
A zygote divides by mitosis to form an embryo. All of the cells 4. describe the function of stem cells in embryonic and adult
in an embryo are initially identical and unspecialised; these animals and meristems in plants
are embryonic stem cells, and can become specialised to
5. explain the importance of cell differentiation, in which cells
form any type of cell (differentiation) by switching genes off
become specialised by switching genes off and on to form
and on. Most cells in a human embryo become specialised
tissues with particular functions
after the eight cell stage. However, some (adult stem cells)
remain unspecialised and can become specialised later to
become many, but not all, types of cells.
In plants, only cells in meristems undergo mitosis, producing
unspecialised cells that can develop into any kind of plant cell.
33
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34
B4.4 How is plant growth controlled? (separate science only)

Plants are able to respond to their environment in different ways, 1.
a)explain how plant hormones are important in the Practical work:
e.g. phototropism in shoots and gravitropism in roots. These control and coordination of plant growth and investigate
responses are controlled and coordinated by a group of plant development, with reference to the role of auxins phototropism and
hormones called auxins, and increase a plants chances of in phototropisms and gravitropisms the role of auxins in
survival. b)describe practical investigations into the role of seedlings, using
auxin in phototropism directional light sources
Plants can also respond to environmental factors using other
PAG6 and foil caps and rings
hormones. Gibberellins are involved in breaking seed dormancy
(germination) in response to water, and bolting (production of 2. describe some of the variety of effects of plant
flowers in an attempt to reproduce before death) in response to hormones, relating to gibberellins and ethene
cold or lack of water. Ethene is involved in the ripening of fruit
3. describe some of the different ways in which people
and dropping of leaves. Humans can exploit these responses and
use plant hormones to control plant growth
others such as triggering rooting in cuttings, by using plant
hormones to trigger responses that are advantageous to us.
OCR 2016
OCR 2016
B4.5 Should we use stem cells to treat damage and disease?

Stem cells offer the potential to treat patients by replacing 1. discuss potential benefits, risks and ethical issues Specification links:
damaged tissues or cells. But the benefits must be weighed associated with the use of stem cells in medicine stem cell therapy for
against risks and ethical concerns about the use and destruction neuron damage (B5.6)
of human embryos to collect embryonic stem cells. For these
reasons, use of stem cells in research and medicine is subject to
stem cell therapy as an
government regulation in many countries (IaS4).
application of science
that could change lives
(IaS4)
risks, benefits and
ethical issues associated
with use of stem cells in
medicine (IaS4)
35
2
Overview exchange surfaces are necessary. In Topics B5.2 and

B5.3 they explore how the nervous and endocrine
From previous study, learners should appreciate that systems help the body to detect and respond to
cells work together in multi-cellular organisms in external and internal changes. Topic B5.4 illustrates
a hierarchy of cells, tissues, organs and systems to the importance of maintaining a constant internal
support the functioning of each cell and of the environment.
2 organism as a whole. This chapter develops
understanding of how cells and systems work The essential role of hormones in human
together to support life in the human body. reproduction is explored in Topic B5.5, followed
in Topic B5.6 by consideration of what can happen
In Topic B5.1, learners consider how the substances when certain structures and systems including the
essential for chemical reactions are transported regulation of blood sugar, structures in the eye and
into, out of and around the human body, and why neurons in the nervous system go wrong.
Learning about the human body before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: understand the mechanism of breathing to
move air in and out of the lungs, and be able to
appreciate the hierarchical organisation of use a pressure model to explain the movement
multicellular organisms: from cells to tissues to of gases
organs to systems to organisms understand, in outline, how nutrients and
be able to identify, name, draw and label the water are transported within animals, including
basic parts of the human body humans
have a basic understanding of the function of be able to identify and name the main parts of
muscles the human circulatory system
be familiar with the tissues and organs of the be familiar with the functions of the heart,
human digestive system, including adaptations blood vessels and blood
to function know which part of the body is associated with
understand the basic structures and functions each sense.
of the gas exchange system in humans,
including adaptations to function
Tiering
OCR 2016
Learning about the human body at GCSE (91)
OCR 2016
B5.1 How do substances get into, out of and around our bodies?

Oxygen, water and molecules from food are essential for 1. describe some of the substances transported into and out Practical work:
chemical reactions in cells in the human body, including of the human body in terms of the requirements of cells, dissect lambs heart to
cellular respiration and synthesis of biomass. Carbon dioxide including oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, dissolved food observe atria, ventricles
and urea are waste products that need to be removed from molecules and urea and valves
cells before they reach toxic levels. Moving these substances investigate valves in an
2. explain how the partially-permeable cell membranes of
into, around and out of the body depends upon interactions arm vein (tourniquet
animal cells are related to diffusion, osmosis and active
between the circulatory, gaseous exchange, digestive and around bicep; when
transport
excretory systems. veins become
3. describe the human circulatory system, including its prominent, gently try to
Oxygen and carbon dioxide diffuse between blood in
relationships with the gaseous exchange system, the push blood in each
capillaries and air in alveoli. Water and dissolved food
digestive system and the excretory system direction)
molecules are absorbed from the digestive system into blood
in capillaries. Waste products including carbon dioxide and 4. explain how the structure of the heart is adapted to its
urea diffuse out of cells into the blood. Urea is filtered out of function, including cardiac muscle, chambers and valves
the blood by the kidneys into urine. Partially-permeable cell 5. explain how the structures of arteries, veins and capillaries
membranes regulate the movement of these substances; are adapted to their functions, including differences in the
gases move across the membranes by diffusion, water by vessel walls and the presence of valves
osmosis and other substances by active transport.
6. explain how red blood cells and plasma are adapted to their
The heart, blood vessels, red blood cells and plasma are functions in the blood
adapted to transport substances around the body.
To sustain all the living cells inside humans and other multi- 7. explain the need for exchange surfaces and a transport Practical work:
cellular organisms, exchange surfaces increase the surface system in multicellular organisms in terms of surface investigate the effect of
area:volume ratio, and the circulatory system moves area:volume ratio surface area:volume
substances around the body to decrease the distance they ratio on diffusion of dye
8. calculate surface area:volume ratios
have to diffuse to and from cells. into agar cubes
M1c, M5c
37
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38
B5.2 How does the nervous system help us respond to changes?

In order to survive, organisms need to detect and respond to 1. explain how the components of the nervous system
changes in their external and internal environments. The highly work together to enable it to function, including
adapted structures of the nervous system facilitate fast, short-lasting sensory receptors, sensory neurons, the CNS, motor
responses to stimuli. neurons and effectors
In a stimulated neuron, an electrical impulse passes along the axon. 2. explain how the structures of nerve cells and
Most axons have a fatty sheath to increase impulse transmission synapses relate to their functions
speed. An impulse is transmitted from one neuron to another
i Learners are not expected to explain nerve
across a synapse by the release of transmitter substances, which
impulse transmission in terms of membrane
diffuse across the gap and bind to receptors on the next neuron,
potentials
stimulating it.
Reflexes provide rapid, involuntary responses without involving a 3.
a)explain how the structure of a reflex arc,
processing centre, and are essential to the survival of many including the relay neuron, is related to its
organisms. In some circumstances the brain can modify a reflex function
response via a neuron to the motor neuron of the reflex arc (e.g. to b)describe practical investigations into reflex
stop us dropping a hot object). actions
PAG6
Research into the structure and function of the brain has huge 4. describe the structure and function of the brain and Ideas about Science:
potential impact for the ageing population. roles of the cerebral cortex (intelligence, memory, fMRI as a technological
language and consciousness), cerebellum (conscious development that
We know the brain is made of billions of neurons. We also know that
movement) and brain stem (regulation of heart and enabled observations
different areas of the brain are important in different functions.
breathing rate) that led to new
However, our ability to investigate and develop explanations (separate science only) scientific explanations
about brain function remains limited. Most areas of the brain are (IaS3)
5. explain some of the difficulties of investigating
concerned with many functions, but some functions can be ethical issues around
brain function
mapped to particular areas using functional magnetic resonance studying brain
imaging (fMRI), studies of patients with brain damage, and damaged patients
electrical stimulation (IaS3). There are ethical issues associated (IaS4)
OCR 2016
with studying brain damaged patients, including informed consent

(IaS4).
OCR 2016
B5.3 How do hormones control responses in the human body?

The endocrine system of humans and other animals uses hormones, 1. describe the principles of hormonal coordination
secreted by glands and transported by the blood, to enable the body and control by the human endocrine system
to respond to external and internal stimuli. Hormones bind to
2. explain the roles of thyroxine and adrenaline in
receptors on effectors, stimulating a response. The endocrine system
the body, including thyroxine as an example of a
provides slower, longer-lasting responses than the nervous system.
negative feedback system
The production of hormones is regulated by negative feedback.
39
2
2
40
B5.4 Why do we need to maintain a constant internal environment?

Cells, enzymes and life processes function 1. explain the importance of maintaining a constant internal environment Specification links:
only in certain conditions, and optimally when in response to internal and external change the effects of
conditions are within a narrow range. The temperature on
2.
a)describe the function of the skin in the control of body temperature,
maintenance of a constant internal environment enzyme activity (B3.1)
including changes to sweating, hair erection and blood flow
is homeostasis, and depends on receptors,
b)describe practical investigations into temperature control of the body Practical work:
nerves, hormones and (often antagonistic)
PAG6 compare skin
effectors to counteract changes.
(separate science only) temperature and core
The skin and muscles (including muscles in body temperature
3. explain the response of the body to different temperature challenges,
artery walls and hair follicles) work to control under different
including receptors, processing, responses and negative feedback
internal body temperature. Maintenance conditions
of an ideal internal temperature depends on model the control of
temperature receptors in the skin and 4. explain the effect on cells of osmotic changes in body fluids temperature by trying
hypothalamus, processing in the hypothalamus, i Learners are not expected to discuss water potential to keep a beaker of
responses such as sweating, hair erection, (separate science only) water at 40C using just
shivering, vasoconstriction and vasodilation, a Bunsen burner (single
and negative feedback. 5. describe the function of the kidneys in maintaining the water balance of effector) compared to a
the body, including filtering water and urea from the blood into kidney Bunsen burner and ice
The kidneys filter water and urea from the blood tubules then reabsorbing as much water as required (antagonistic effectors)
into kidney tubules then reabsorb as much water

as required, to maintain the water balance of the
body. This helps to ensure the blood plasma is at 6. describe the effect of ADH on the permeability of the kidney tubules
the correct concentration to prevent the (separate science only)
shrinking or bursting of cells due to osmosis. 7. explain the response of the body to different osmotic challenges,
Maintenance of an ideal water balance including receptors, processing, response, and negative feedback
depends on receptors and processing in the (separate science only)
hypothalamus, response by the pituitary gland
(increased/decreased ADH production), and 8. in the context of maintaining a constant internal environment:
negative feedback. a)extract and interpret data from graphs, charts and tables
M2c
OCR 2016
b)translate information between numerical and graphical forms

M4a
OCR 2016
B5.5 What role do hormones play in human reproduction?

Hormones play a vital role in enabling sexual reproduction in humans: 1. describe the role of hormones in human
they regulate the menstrual cycle, including ovulation, in adult females. reproduction, including the control of the
Without this process, sexual reproduction would not be possible. menstrual cycle
A number of hormones interact to control the menstrual cycle: 2. explain the interactions of FSH, LH, oestrogen
FSH causes the ovaries to develop a follicle containing an egg, and progesterone in the control of the
and produce oestrogen menstrual cycle
oestrogen causes the uterus wall to thicken
LH causes the follicle to release the egg (ovulation)
the remains of the follicle secretes progesterone
progesterone prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation
of a fertilised egg
oestrogen and progesterone stop the production of LH and FSH
as progesterone levels fall, the thickened uterus wall breaks
down and is discharged (menstruation).
The menstrual cycle can be controlled artificially by the administration of 3. explain the use of hormones in contraception Specification links:
hormones, often as an oral pill. The hormones prevent ovulation, so can and evaluate hormonal and non-hormonal sexually transmitted
be used as a contraceptive, but they do not decrease the risk of sexual methods of contraception disease (B2.1)
transmission of communicable diseases (IaS4).
risk in the context of sex
and contraception (IaS4)
Hormones can also be used to artificially manipulate the menstrual 4. explain the use of hormones in modern Ideas about Science:
cycle as a treatment in certain cases of female infertility in which reproductive technologies to treat infertility infertility treatment as
follicle development and ovulation do not occur successfully. The use of an application of
hormones to treat infertility is an example of an application of science science that makes a
that has made a significant positive difference to peoples lives (IaS4). positive difference to
lives (IaS4)
41
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42
B5.6 What can happen when organs and control systems stop working?

Blood sugar level is controlled by insulin and glucagon acting 1. explain how insulin controls the blood sugar level in the
antagonistically. Type 1 diabetes arises when the pancreas body
stops making insulin; blood sugar can be regulated using
2. explain how glucagon and insulin work together to control
insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body
the blood sugar level in the body
no longer responds to its own insulin or does not make
enough insulin; blood sugar can be regulated using diet (high 3. compare type 1 and type 2 diabetes and explain how they
in complex carbohydrates), exercise and insulin injections. can be treated
The human eye is an important sense organ. Tissues in the 4.
a)explain how the main structures of the eye are related Specification links:
eye are adapted to enable it to function. Damage or to their functions, including the cornea, iris, lens, ciliary lenses and ray diagrams
degradation of tissues and cells in the eye can impair sight. muscle and retina and to include the use of ray (P1.4)
diagrams
Ray diagrams can be used to model some of these problems Practical work:
b)describe practical investigations into the response of
and how they can be overcome (IaS3). investigate the diameter
the pupil in different light conditions
of the pupil in different
PAG6
light conditions
investigate the focusing
5. describe common defects of the eye, including short- of light using lenses
sightedness, long-sightedness and cataracts, and explain
how these problems may be overcome, including using ray

diagrams to illustrate the effect of lenses
Damage to neurons can lead to debilitating illness. Neurons, 6. explain some of the limitations in treating damage and Specification links:
once differentiated, do not undergo mitosis, so cannot disease in the brain and other parts of the nervous system Is it right to use stem
divide to replace lost neurons; this means damage to the (separate science only) cells in medicine? (B4.5)
nervous system can be difficult or impossible to treat.
Research into the use of stem cells to replace damaged cells stem cell therapy as an
of the nervous system offers the potential to improve the application of science
OCR 2016
lives of people with nervous system injury and disease, but that could change lives
the ethics of stem cells use must also be considered (IaS4). (IaS4)
Chapter B6: Life on Earth past, present and future
Overview evidence as the basis for widespread scientific

acceptance of the theory, and probes reasons why
The modern explanation of evolution by natural some people may still not accept it.
selection is one of the central ideas in biology. The
historical development of the explanation and its The effects that sexual and asexual reproduction have
journey to widespread acceptance in the science on evolution are considered in Topic B6.2, followed
community illustrate key Ideas about Science. by a brief examination in Topic B6.3 of the impact 2
that developments in scientific understanding have
Learners explore ideas about evolution in Key Stages had on the way we classify the diversity of life on
2 and 3, so by GCSE (91) they should be familiar Earth today.
with the concepts of variation (at phenotype level),
adaptation, advantage, competition and natural Finally, in Topic B6.4 learners examine the impacts
selection. In Topic B6.1, learners begin to expand of human activities on the Earths biodiversity, the
their understanding by linking variation to genetics, tremendous importance of protecting it, issues
and the concept of evolution by natural selection is that affect decision making, and ways in which our
explored within the story of how the theory was understanding of science can help us to interact
developed, evaluated and modified by the scientific positively with ecosystems so that biodiversity and
community. The topic considers the importance of ecosystem resources are conserved for the future.
Learning about evolution and biodiversity before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: know that there is variation between
individuals within a species, and that
know that there are many different types of variation can be described as continuous or
organisms living in many different discontinuous
environments, and that there are similarities understand that the variation means some
and differences between all organisms organisms compete more successfully,
recognise that living organisms can be grouped resulting in natural selection
and classified in a variety of ways based on appreciate that variation, adaptation,
commonalities and differences competition and natural selection result
be able to use classification keys in the evolution of species
recognise that living organisms have changed understand that changes in the environment
over time and that fossils provide information may leave organisms less well adapted to
about organisms that lived millions of years ago compete successfully and reproduce, which
appreciate that organisms live in habitats to can lead to extinction
which they are adapted be familiar with some of the reasons why its
recognise that organisms produce offspring of important to protect and conserve biodiversity,
the same kind, but normally offspring vary and and some ways of doing so.
are not identical to their parents
Tiering
OCR 2016
2
Learning about evolution and biodiversity at GCSE (91)
44
B6.1 How was the theory of evolution developed?

The modern theory of evolution by natural selection combines ideas about 1. state that there is usually extensive genetic
genes, variation, advantage and competition to explain how the inherited variation within a population of a species
characteristics of a population can change over a number of generations.
2. recall that genetic variants arise from
It includes the ideas that:
mutations, and that most have no effect on
Mutations in DNA create genetic variants, which may be inherited. Most the phenotype, some influence phenotype
genetic variants do not affect phenotype, but those that do may increase and a very few determine phenotype
an organisms ability to survive in its environments and compete for
3. explain how evolution occurs through natural
resources (i.e. confer an advantage). Individuals with an advantage are
selection of variants that give rise to
more likely to reproduce; thus, by natural selection, the proportion of
phenotypes better suited to their
individuals possessing beneficial genetic variants increases in subsequent
environment
generations.
4. explain the importance of competition in a
A new species can arise if the organisms in a population evolve to be so
community, with regard to natural selection
different from their ancestors that they could no longer mate with them to
produce fertile offspring. Speciation is more likely to occur when two 5. describe evolution as a change in the
populations of an organism are isolated. inherited characteristics of a population over
a number of generations through a process of
natural selection which may result in the

formation of new species
Charles Darwin noticed that the selective breeding of plants and animals 6. explain the impact of the selective breeding of
had produced new varieties with many beneficial characteristics, quite food plants and domesticated animals
different to their wild ancestors. Most of what we eat, and our ability to
feed the growing human population depends on selectively bred plants
and animals. Darwin wondered whether a similar process of selection in
nature could have created new species.
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OCR 2016
B6.1 How was the theory of evolution developed?

The theory of evolution by natural selection was developed to explain 7. describe how fossils provide evidence for Ideas about Science:
observations made by Darwin, Wallace and other scientists, including: evolution the theory of evolution
by natural selection as
the production of new varieties of plants and animals by selective 8. describe the work of Darwin and Wallace in
an example of how
breeding the development of the theory of evolution by
scientific explanations
fossils with similarities and differences to living species natural selection
are developed (IaS3)
the different characteristics shown by isolated populations of the (separate science only)
same species living in different ecosystems.
The development of the theory is an example of how scientists develop
explanations. Darwin: made observations of the natural world; suggested
natural selection to explain differences between fossils and living
organisms, and between isolated populations; used ideas from Wallace and
other scientists to improve his explanation; and shared his explanation
with the scientific community (IaS3).
The theory of evolution by natural selection illustrates how scientists 9. describe modern examples of evidence for Ideas about Science:
continue to test a proposed explanation by making new observations and evolution including antibiotic resistance in the theory of evolution
collecting new evidence, and how if the explanation is able to explain these bacteria by natural selection as a
it can become widely accepted by the scientific community (IaS3). For scientific explanation
example, the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria can be explained by modified in light of new
mutation, advantage and natural selection. observations and ideas
(IaS3)
Most scientists accept the modern theory of evolution because it is the 10. explain the impact of these ideas on modern Ideas about Science:
best explanation for many of our observations of the natural world. biology and society reasons why different
However, some people do not accept it either because they are unaware of (separate science only) people do or do not
(or do not understand) the evidence, or because it does not fit with their accept an explanation
beliefs (IaS4). (IaS4)
45
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46
B6.2 How do sexual and asexual reproduction affect evolution? (separate science only)

The evolution of a population or species is affected by whether the 1. explain some of the advantages and
individual organisms reproduce sexually or asexually. Sexual reproduction disadvantages of asexual and sexual
occurs at a slower rate than asexual reproduction, but provides genetic reproduction in a range of organisms
variation in the offspring.
B6.3 How does our understanding of biology help us classify the diversity of organisms on Earth?

The enormous diversity of organisms on Earth can be classified 1. describe the impact of developments in biology on
into groups on the basis of observed similarities and differences in classification systems, including the use of DNA
their physical characteristics and, more recently, their DNA. We analysis to classify organisms
are more likely to classify species into the same group if there are
lots of similarities in their genomes (i.e. if they have many genes,
and genetic variants, in common). Genome analysis can also
suggest whether different groups have a common ancestor, and
how recently speciation occurred.
OCR 2016
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B6.4 How is biodiversity threatened and how can we protect it?

The biodiversity of the Earth, or of a particular area, is the 1. describe both positive and negative human interactions Specification links:
combination of the diversity of living organisms, the diversity within ecosystems and explain their impact on biodiversity greenhouse gases and
of genes these organisms have, and the diversity of global warming (P1.3,
2. evaluate evidence for the impact of environmental
ecosystems. C1.1)
changes on the distribution of organisms, with reference
The biodiversity of many areas is being reduced by activities to water and atmospheric gases Ideas about Science:
related to increasing human population size, industrialisation (separate science only) the impacts of science
and globalisation. Such interactions can result in ecosystems on biodiversity,
3. describe some of the biological factors affecting levels of
being damaged or destroyed, populations dying out, and including negative
food security including increasing human population,
species becoming extinct when conditions change more impacts and potential
changing diets in wealthier populations, new pests and
quickly than they can adapt. Humans can interact with solutions (IaS4)
pathogens, environmental change, sustainability and cost of
ecosystems positively by using ecosystem resources in a decision making in the
agricultural inputs
sustainable way (at the same rate as they can be replaced), context of the
and by protecting and conserving biodiversity. protection and
4. explain some of the benefits and challenges of maintaining conservation of
All organisms, including humans, depend on other organisms
local and global biodiversity biodiversity (IaS4)
and the environment for their survival. Protecting and
conserving biodiversity will help ensure we can continue to 5. extract and interpret information related to biodiversity Practical work:
provide the human population with food, materials and from charts, graphs and tables measure living and
medicines. M2c, M4a non-living indicators to
assess the effect of
Biodiversity can be protected at different levels, including 6. describe and explain some possible biotechnological and
pollution on organisms
protection of individual species, protection of ecosystems, agricultural solutions, including genetic modification, to the
and control of activities that contribute to global climate demands of the growing human population
change. Decisions about protecting and conserving (separate science only)
biodiversity are affected by ecological, economic, moral and
political issues (IaS4).
47
2
Overview Note that:
In order to make sense of the scientific ideas that although particular Ideas about Science have
learners encounter in lessons and in everyday life been linked to particular contexts throughout
outside of school, they need an understanding of the specification as examples, the assessable
how science explanations are developed, the kinds of learning outcomes in this chapter should be
2 evidence and reasoning behind them, their strengths developed, and will be assessed, in any context
and limitations, and how far we can rely on them. from chapters 16
Learners also need opportunities to consider the the assessable learning outcomes in this
impacts of science and technology on society, and chapter will be assessed in all of the written
how we respond individually and collectively to new examination papers
ideas, artefacts and processes that science makes
possible. terms associated with measurement and
data analysis are used in accordance with
It is intended that the Ideas about Science will help their definitions in the Association of Science
learners understand how scientific knowledge is Education publication The Language of
5 obtained, how to respond to science stories and Measurement (2010).
issues in the world outside the classroom, and the
impacts of scientific knowledge on society.
Learning about How Science Works before GCSE (91)
From study at Key Stages 1 to 3 learners should: have devised and carried out scientific
enquiries, in which they have selected the
understand that science explanations are most appropriate techniques and equipment,
based on evidence and that as new evidence collected and analysed data and drawn
is gathered, explanations may change conclusions.
Tiering
OCR 2016
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IaS1 What needs to be considered when investigating a phenomenon scientifically?

The aim of science is to develop good explanations for 1. in given contexts use scientific theories and tentative
natural phenomena. There is no single scientific method explanations to develop and justify hypotheses and
that leads to good explanations, but scientists do have predictions
characteristic ways of working. In particular, scientific
2. suggest appropriate apparatus, materials and techniques,
explanations are based on a cycle of collecting and analysing
justifying the choice with reference to the precision,
data.
accuracy and validity of the data that will be collected
Usually, developing an explanation begins with proposing a
3. recognise the importance of scientific quantities and
hypothesis. A hypothesis is a tentative explanation for an
understand how they are determined
observed phenomenon (this happens because).
4. identify factors that need to be controlled, and the ways in
The hypothesis is used to make a prediction about how, in a
which they could be controlled
particular experimental context, a change in a factor will
affect the outcome. A prediction can be presented in a 5. suggest an appropriate sample size and/or range of values
variety of ways, for example in words or as a sketch graph. to be measured and justify the suggestion
M2d
In order to test a prediction, and the hypothesis upon which
it is based, it is necessary to plan an experimental strategy 6. plan experiments or devise procedures by constructing
that enables data to be collected in a safe, accurate and clear and logically sequenced strategies to:
repeatable way. make observations
produce or characterise a substance
test hypotheses
collect and check data
explore phenomena
7. identify hazards associated with the data collection and
suggest ways of minimising the risk
8. use appropriate scientific vocabulary, terminology and

definitions to communicate the rationale for an
investigation and the methods used using diagrammatic,
graphical, numerical and symbolic forms
49
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The cycle of collecting, presenting and analysing data 1. present observations and other data using appropriate
usually involves translating data from one form to another, formats
mathematical processing, graphical display and analysis; only
2. when processing data use SI units where appropriate (e.g.
then can we begin to draw conclusions.
kg, g, mg; km, m, mm; kJ, J) and IUPAC chemical nomenclature
A set of repeat measurements can be processed to calculate a unless inappropriate
range within which the true value probably lies and to give a
3. when processing data use prefixes (e.g. tera, giga, mega, kilo,
best estimate of the value (mean).
centi, milli, micro and nano) and powers of ten for orders of
Displaying data graphically can help to show trends or patterns, magnitude
and to assess the spread of repeated measurements.
4. be able to translate data from one form to another
Mathematical comparisons between results and statistical M2c, M4a
methods can help with further analysis.
5. when processing data interconvert units
6. when processing data use an appropriate number of
significant figures
M2a
7. when displaying data graphically select an appropriate
graphical form, use appropriate axes and scales, plot data
points correctly, draw an appropriate line of best fit, and

indicate uncertainty (e.g. range bars)
M2c, M4a, M4c
8. when analysing data identify patterns/trends, use statistics
(range and mean) and obtain values from a line on a graph
(including gradient, interpolation and extrapolation)
M2b, M2f, M2g, M4b, M4d
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Data obtained must be evaluated critically before we can make 9. in a given context evaluate data in terms of accuracy,
conclusions based on the results. There could be many reasons precision, repeatability and reproducibility, identify potential
why the quality (accuracy, precision, repeatability and sources of random and systematic error, and discuss the
reproducibility) of the data could be questioned, and a number decision to discard or retain an outlier
of ways in which they could be improved.
10. evaluate an experimental strategy, suggest improvements
Data can never be relied on completely because observations and explain why they would increase the quality (accuracy,
may be incorrect and all measurements are subject to precision, repeatability and reproducibility) of the data
uncertainty (arising from the limitations of the measuring collected, and suggest further investigations
equipment and the person using it).
A result that appears to be an outlier should be treated as
data, unless there is a reason to reject it (e.g. measurement or
recording error).
Agreement between the collected data and the original 11. in a given context interpret observations and other data
prediction increases confidence in the tentative explanation (presented in diagrammatic, graphical, symbolic or numerical
(hypothesis) upon which the prediction is based, but does not form) to make inferences and to draw reasoned conclusions,
prove that the explanation is correct. Disagreement between using appropriate scientific vocabulary and terminology to
the data and the prediction indicates that one or other is communicate the scientific rationale for findings and
wrong, and decreases our confidence in the explanation. conclusions
12. explain the extent to which data increase or decrease
confidence in a prediction or hypothesis
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Scientists often look for patterns in data as a means of identifying 1.
use ideas about correlation and cause to: Considering
correlations that can suggest cause-effect links for which an a)identify a correlation in data presented as text, in a correlation and cause:
explanation might then be sought. table, or as a graph risk factors for non-
M2g communicable
The first step is to identify a correlation between a factor and an
b)distinguish between a correlation and a diseases (B2.5)
outcome. The factor may then be the cause, or one of the causes, of
cause-effect link
the outcome. In many situations, a factor may not always lead to the
c)suggest factors that might increase the chance of a
outcome, but increases the chance (or the risk) of it happening. In
particular outcome in a given situation, but do not
order to claim that the factor causes the outcome we need to identify
invariably lead to it
a process or mechanism that might account for the observed
d)explain why individual cases do not provide
correlation.
convincing evidence for or against a correlation
e)identify the presence (or absence) of a plausible
mechanism as reasonable grounds for accepting
(or rejecting) a claim that a factor is a cause of an
outcome
Scientific explanations and theories do not emerge automatically 2. describe and explain examples of scientific methods and Developing scientific
from data, and are separate from the data. Proposing an explanation theories that have developed over time and how explanations:
involves creative thinking. Collecting sufficient data from which to theories have been modified when new evidence Mendels work on
develop an explanation often relies on technological developments became available inheritance (B1.2); the
that enable new observations to be made. theory of evolution by
natural selection (B6.1)
As more evidence becomes available, a hypothesis may be modified
and may eventually become an accepted explanation or theory. Explanations that
relied on technological
A scientific theory is a general explanation that applies to a large
development: roles of
number of situations or examples (perhaps to all possible ones),
cell organelles (B4.2);
which has been tested and used successfully, and is widely accepted
brain function (B5.3);
by scientists. A scientific explanation of a specific event or
three domain model of
phenomenon is often based on applying a scientific theory to the
classification (B6.3)
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situation in question.
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Findings reported by an individual scientist or group are carefully 3. describe in broad outline the peer review process, in
checked by the scientific community before being accepted as which new scientific claims are evaluated by other
scientific knowledge. Scientists are usually sceptical about claims scientists
based on results that cannot be reproduced by anyone else, and
about unexpected findings until they have been repeated (by
themselves) or reproduced (by someone else).
Two (or more) scientists may legitimately draw different conclusions
about the same data. A scientists personal background, experience or
interests may influence his/her judgements.
An accepted scientific explanation is rarely abandoned just because
new data disagree with it. It usually survives until a better explanation
is available.
Models are used in science to help explain ideas and to test 4. use a variety of models (including representational, Examples of models:
explanations. A model identifies features of a system and rules by spatial, descriptive, computational and mathematical letters (ATCG) for the
which the features interact. It can be used to predict possible models) to: genetic code (B1.1);
outcomes. Representational models use physical analogies or spatial solve problems Punnett squares for
representations to help visualise scientific explanations and make predictions single-gene inheritance
mechanisms. Descriptive models are used to explain phenomena. develop scientific explanations and understanding (B1.2); lock and key for
Mathematical models use patterns in data of past events, along with identify limitations of models enzyme action (B3.1);
known scientific relationships, to predict behaviour; often the food webs and
calculations are complex and can be done more quickly by computer. pyramids of biomass
(B3.3); ray diagrams
Models can be used to investigate phenomena quickly and without
for focussing of light in
ethical and practical limitations, but their usefulness is limited by how
the eye (B5.6);
accurately the model represents the real world.
classification (B6.3)
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Science and technology provide people with many things that they 1. describe and explain examples of applications of science Positive applications of
value, and which enhance their quality of life. However some that have made significant positive differences to science: genetic
applications of science can have unintended and undesirable impacts peoples lives engineering (B1.3);
on the quality of life or the environment. Scientists can devise ways monoclonal antibodies
2. identify examples of risks that have arisen from a new
of reducing these impacts and of using natural resources in a (B2.3, B2.6); infertility
scientific or technological advance
sustainable way (at the same rate as they can be replaced). treatment (B5.5); stem
3. for a given situation: cell therapy (B4.7,
Everything we do carries a certain risk of accident or harm. New
a)identify risks and benefits to the different individuals B5.6); environmental
technologies and processes can introduce new risks.
and groups involved conservation and
The size of a risk can be assessed by estimating its chance of b)discuss a course of action, taking account of who sustainability (B6.4)
occurring in a large sample, over a given period of time. benefits and who takes the risks
Unintended impacts:
To make a decision about a course of action, we need to take account c)suggest reasons for peoples willingness to accept
biodiversity loss (B6.4)
of both the risks and benefits to the different individuals or groups the risk
d)distinguish between perceived and calculated risk Considering risks,
involved. People are generally more willing to accept the risk
benefits and ethical
associated with something they choose to do than something that is
issues: gene technology
imposed, and to accept risks that have short-lived effects rather than
(B1.3); disease
long-lasting ones. Peoples perception of the size of a particular risk
prevention (B2.4); risk
may be different from the statistically estimated risk. People tend to
factors for non-
over-estimate the risk of unfamiliar things (like flying as compared

communicable diseases
with cycling), and of things whose effect is invisible or long-term (like
(B2.5); treatment
ionising radiation).
options for disease
Some forms of scientific research, and some applications of scientific (B2.6); placebos in
knowledge, have ethical implications. In discussions of ethical issues, clinical trials (B2.6); use
a common argument is that the right decision is one which leads to of stem cells (B4.5,
the best outcome for the greatest number of people. B5.6); studying brain
damaged patients
(B5.6); sex and
contraception (B5.5);
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conservation of
biodiversity (B6.4)
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Scientists must communicate their work to a range of audiences, 4. suggest reasons why different decisions on the same
including the public, other scientists, and politicians, in ways that can issue might be appropriate in view of differences in
be understood. This enables decision-making based on information personal, social, or economic or environmental context,
about risks, benefits, costs and ethical issues. and be able to make decisions based on the evaluation of
evidence and arguments
5. distinguish questions that could in principle be answered
using a scientific approach, from those that could not;
where an ethical issue is involved clearly state what the
issue is and summarise the different views that may
be held
6. explain why scientists should communicate their work to
a range of audiences
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2
Chapter B8: Practical skills
Compliance with the requirements for practical work
It is compulsory that learners complete at least eight described in the Assessable learning outcomes
practical activities. column. These can count towards each PAG. We are
expecting that centres will provide learners with
OCR has split the requirements from the Department opportunities to carry out a wide range of practical
2 for Education GCSE subject content and assessment activities during the course. These can be the ones
objectives Appendix 4 into eight Practical Activity described in the specification or can be practicals that
Groups or PAGs. are devised by the centre. Activities can range from
whole investigations to simple starters and plenaries.
The Practical Activity Groups allow centres flexibility
in their choice of activity. Whether centres use OCR It should be noted that the practicals described in the
suggested practicals or centre-substituted practicals, specification need to be covered in preparation for
they must ensure completion of at least eight the questions in the written examinations that will
practical activities and each learner must have had the assess practical skills. No less than 15% of the
opportunity to use all of the apparatus and techniques questions will assess practical skills. Learners also
described in the following table of this chapter. need to be prepared to answer questions using their
knowledge and understanding of practical techniques
The table illustrates the apparatus and techniques and procedures in written papers.
required for each PAG and an example practical that
may be used to contribute to the PAG. It should be Safety is an overriding requirement for all practical
noted that some apparatus and techniques can be work. Centres are responsible for ensuring
used in more than one PAG. It is therefore important appropriate safety procedures are followed
that teachers take care to ensure that learners do whenever their learners complete practical work.
have the opportunity to use all of the required
apparatus and techniques during the course with Use and production of appropriate scientific diagrams
the activities chosen by the centre. to set up and record apparatus and procedures used
in practical work is common to all science subjects
Within the specification there are a number of and should be included wherever appropriate.
practicals, indicated as, for example, PAG1, that are
Revision of the requirements for practical work
OCR will review the practical activities detailed in If any revision to the practical activities is made, OCR
Chapter B8 of this specification following any revision will produce an amended specification which will be
by the Secretary of State of the apparatus or published on the OCR website. OCR will then use the
techniques published specified in respect of the GCSE following methods to communicate the amendment
Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) qualification. to Centres: Notice to Centres sent to all Examinations
Officers, e-alerts to Centres that have registered to
OCR will revise the practical activities if appropriate. teach the qualification and social media.
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The following list includes opportunities for choice variety of experimental problem-solving and/or
and use of appropriate laboratory apparatus for a enquiry based activities.
Example of a
practical activity (a
Practical
range of practicals
Activity Apparatus and techniques that
are included in the
Group
(PAG)
the practical must use or cover
specification and
Centres can devise
2
their own activity)*
1 Use of appropriate apparatus, techniques and magnification, Investigate different

Microscopy including microscopes, to make observations of biological magnification
specimens and produce labelled scientific drawings7 techniques to draw
scientific diagrams
Use of appropriate apparatus to make and record a range of
from a number of
measurements accurately, including length, area, mass, time,
biological specimens
temperature, volume of liquids and gases, and pH1
2 Safe use of appropriate heating devices and techniques including Testing foods for the
Testing for use of a Bunsen burner and a water bath or electric heater2 presence of biological
biological molecules in a range
Use of appropriate techniques and qualitative reagents to identify
molecules of foods
biological molecules and processes in more complex and problem-
solving contexts including continuous sampling in an investigation
3 Application of appropriate sampling techniques to investigate the Investigation the
Sampling distribution and abundance of organisms in an ecosystem via differences in
techniques direct use in the field (to include: biotic and abiotic factors) habitats using
ecological sampling
techniques
4 Safe use of appropriate heating devices and techniques including Investigate the
Rates of use of a Bunsen burner and a water bath or electric heater2 factors that can affect
enzyme- the rate of enzyme
Use of appropriate apparatus and techniques for the observation
controlled activity
and measurement of biological changes and/or processes3
reactions
Measurement of rates of reaction by a variety of methods
including production of gas, uptake of water and colour change of
indicator5
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Example of a
practical activity (a
Practical
range of practicals
Activity Apparatus and techniques that
are included in the
Group the practical must use or cover
specification and
(PAG)
Centres can devise
their own activity)*
2 5 Use of appropriate apparatus and techniques for the observation Investigate the
Photosynthesis and measurement of biological changes and/or processes3 factors that can
affect the rate of
Safe and ethical use of living organisms (plants or animals) to
photosynthesis on
measure physiological functions and responses to the environment4
Cabomba
Measurement of rates of reaction by a variety of methods
including production of gas, uptake of water and colour change of
indicator5
Safe use of appropriate heating devices and techniques including
use of a Bunsen burner and a water bath or electric heater2
6 Safe and ethical use of living organisms (plants or animals) to Investigate the effect
Physiology, measure physiological functions and responses to the environment4 of exercise on pulse
responses rate/ventilation rate
respiration and recovery
7 Use of appropriate apparatus and techniques for the observation Investigate the
Microbiological and measurement of biological changes and/or processes3 effectiveness of
techniques antimicrobial agents
Use of appropriate apparatus, techniques and magnification,
on the growth of a
including microscopes, to make observations of biological
bacterial lawn
specimens and produce labelled scientific drawings7
8 Use of appropriate apparatus and techniques for the observation Investigate the effect
Transport in and measurement of biological changes and/or processes3 of different water
and out of cells potentials on the
length and mass of
potato chips
* Centres are free to substitute alternative practical activities that also cover the skills detailed above.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7
These apparatus and techniques may be covered in any of the groups indicated. Numbers correspond
to those used in Appendix 4.
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Choice of activity
Centres can include additional apparatus and free coursework consultancy service.
techniques within an activity beyond those listed as E-mail: ScienceGCSE@ocr.org.uk
the minimum in the above tables. Learners must
complete a minimum of eight practicals covering all Where Centres devise their own practical activities
the apparatus and techniques listed. to cover the apparatus and techniques listed above,
the practical must cover all the requirements and be
The apparatus and techniques can be covered: of a level of demand appropriate for GCSE. Each set 2
of apparatus and techniques described in the middle
(i) by using OCR suggested activities (provided as column can be covered by more than one Centre
resources) devised practical activity e.g. measurement of
(ii) through activities devised by the Centre. rates of reaction by a variety of methods including
production of gas, uptake of water and colour change
Centres can receive guidance on the suitability of indicator could be split into two or more activities
of their own practical activities through our (rather than one).
Practical science statement
Centres must provide a written practical science arranged practical science work, for example
statement to OCR confirming that they have taken because of illness. It could be costly for the centre
reasonable steps to secure that each learner: to run additional practical science opportunities for
the learner.
a) has completed the practical activities set by
OCR as detailed in Chapter B8 However, the opportunities to take part in the
b) has made a contemporaneous record of specified range of practical work must be given to all
(i)the work which the learner has learners. Learners who do not take up the full range
undertaken during those practical of opportunities may be disadvantaged as there will
activities, and be questions on practical science in the GCSE Biology
(ii)the knowledge, skills and understanding B (Twenty First Century Science) assessment.
which that learner has derived from those
practical activities. Centres must provide the practical science
statement by 15 May in the year the learner
Centres must provide practical science opportunities certificates. Any failure by a centre to provide
for their learners. This does not go so far as to oblige a practical science statement to OCR in a timely
centres to ensure that all of their learners take part in manner will be treated as malpractice and/or
all of the practical science opportunities. There is maladministration [under General Condition A8
always a risk that an individual learner may miss the (Malpractice and maladministration)].
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Private candidates
Private candidates can be entered for examinations at as imparting important knowledge that is part of the
an OCR-approved centre even if they are not enrolled specification.
as a learner there.
Private candidates need to make contact with a
centre where they will be allowed to carry out the
Private candidates may be home-schooled, receiving
required practical activities. The centre may charge
2 private tuition or self-taught. They must be based in
the UK.
for this facility and OCR recommends that the
arrangement is made early in the course.
The GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) There is no direct assessment of the practical skills
qualification requires learners to complete eight part of the course. However, learners will need to
practical activities. These practical activities are an have completed the activities to prepare fully for the
essential part of the course and will allow learners to written examinations as there will be questions that
develop skills for further study or employment as well assess practical skills.
2d. Prior knowledge, learning and progression

Learners in England who are beginning a GCSE GCSEs (91) are qualifications that enable
(91) course are likely to have followed a Key learners to progress to further qualifications,
Stage 3 programme of study. either Vocational or General.
There are no prior qualifications required in There are a number of Science specifications at OCR.
order for learners to enter for a GCSE (91) Find out more at www.ocr.org.uk
in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science).
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3 Assessment of GCSE (91) in Biology B
(Twenty First Century Science)
3a. Forms of assessment

The GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century are externally assessed. Two are at Foundation Tier
Science) is a linear qualification with 100% external and two are at Higher Tier. Each component carries
assessment. an equal weighting of 50% for that tier of the GCSE
(91) qualification. Each component has a duration
OCRs GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Science) consists of four examined components that
Assessment approach 3
The assessment of the content of Biology B (Twenty Depth paper: this paper can assess content from
First Century Science) is achieved using two across the whole specification. The focus of the
components at each tier. Depth paper is to allow learners to demonstrate
their depth of understanding of specific aspects of
Breadth paper: this paper can assess content from the content. This will be achieved by the inclusion
across the whole specification. The paper will include of some short answer response questions. These
short answer response questions. These will include will include structured questions, calculations and
structured questions, calculations and questions questions based on practical skills. The paper will
based on practical skills. Extended response questions have at least two extended response questions,
are not found on the Breadth paper. marked using Level of Response mark schemes,
each with a total of 6 marks.
Breadth in biology (Components 01 and 03)
These components, one at Foundation Tier and one content from across all teaching chapters 1 to 8.
at Higher Tier, are each worth 90 marks and assess Learners answer all the questions.
Depth in Biology (Components 02 and 04)
These components, one at Foundation Tier and one content from across all teaching chapters 1 to 8.
at Higher Tier, are each worth 90 marks and assess Learners answer all the questions.
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3b. Assessment objectives (AO)
There are three Assessment Objectives in OCR GCSE These are detailed in the table below:
(91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science).
Weighting (%)
Assessment Objectives
Higher Foundation
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
3 AO1

scientific ideas
scientific techniques and procedures
40% 40%
Apply knowledge and understanding of:

AO2 scientific ideas 40% 40%
scientific enquiry, techniques and procedures
Analyse information and ideas to:
AO3 interpret and evaluate 20% 20%

make judgements and draw conclusions
develop and improve experimental procedures
AO weightings in OCR GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
The relationship between the Assessment Objectives and the components are shown in the following table:
% of overall GCSE (91) in Biology B

(Twenty First Century Science) (J257)
Component (Foundation Tier) AO1 AO2 AO3 Total
Breadth in biology (Foundation Tier) J257/01 24 18 8 50

Depth in biology (Foundation Tier) J257/02 16 22 12 50
Total 40 40 20 100
Component (Higher Tier) AO1 AO2 AO3 Total
Breadth in biology (Higher Tier) J257/03 24 18 8 50

Depth in biology (Higher Tier) J257/04 16 22 12 50
Total 40 40 20 100
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3c. Tiers
This scheme of assessment consists of two tiers: on the Higher Tier option for learners who are a
Foundation Tier and Higher Tier. Foundation Tier small number of marks below the grade 3/4
assesses grades 5 to 1 and Higher Tier assesses boundary. Learners must be entered for either
grades 9 to 4. An allowed grade 3 may be awarded the Foundation Tier or the Higher Tier.
3d. Assessment availability

There will be one examination series available each This specification will be certificated from the
year in May/June to all learners. June 2018 examination series onwards.
3
All examined components must be taken in the same
examination series at the end of the course.
3e. Retaking the qualification

Learners can retake the qualification as many times as They retake all components in the tier of entry of the
they wish. qualification.
3f. Assessment of extended response

Extended response questions which are marked using with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to
a level of response mark scheme are included in the construct and develop a sustained and coherent line
Depth in biology components (02 and 04). These are of reasoning and marks for extended responses are
indicated in papers and mark schemes by an asterisk integrated into the marking criteria.
(*). Extended response questions provide learners
3g. Synoptic assessment

Synoptic assessment tests the learners understanding Synoptic assessment requires learners to make and
of the connections between different elements of the use connections within and between different areas
subject. of biology, for example by:
Synoptic assessment has been defined, for the applying knowledge and understanding of more
purposes of this qualification, as allowing learners than one area to a particular situation or context
the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to using knowledge and understanding or
draw together different areas of knowledge, skills principles and concepts in planning
and/or understanding from across the full course experimental and investigative work and
of study. The emphasis of synoptic assessment is to in the analysis and evaluation of data
encourage the development of the understanding
of Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) as a bringing together scientific knowledge and
discipline. All papers contain an element of synoptic understanding from different areas of the
assessment. subject and applying them.
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3h. Calculating qualification results
A learners overall qualification grade for OCR GCSE to the qualification level grade boundaries for
(91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) the entry option taken by the learner and for the
will be calculated by adding together their marks relevant exam series to determine the learners
from the two components taken to give their total overall qualification grade.
weighted mark. This mark will then be compared
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4 Admin: what you need to know
The information in this section is designed to give an More information about these processes, together
overview of the processes involved in administering with the deadlines, can be found in the OCR
this qualification so that you can speak to your exams Admin Guide and Entry Codes: 1419 Qualifications,
officer. All of the following processes require you to which can be downloaded from the OCR website:
submit something to OCR by a specific deadline. www.ocr.org.uk
4a. Pre-assessment
Estimated entries
Estimated entries are your best projection of the should be submitted to OCR by the specified
number of learners who will be entered for a deadline. They are free and do not commit your
qualification in a particular series. Estimated entries centre in any way.
Final entries
4
Final entries provide OCR with detailed data for All learners taking a GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty
each learner, showing each assessment to be taken. First Century Science) must be entered for one of the
It is essential that you use the correct entry code, following entry options:
considering the relevant entry rules.
Final entries must be submitted to OCR by the

published deadlines or late entry fees will apply.
Entry option Components
Entry code Title Code Title Assessment type
J257 F Biology B (Twenty First 01 Breadth in biology External assessment

Century Science) Foundation Tier
(Foundation Tier)
02 Depth in biology External assessment
Foundation Tier
J257 H Biology B (Twenty First 03 Breadth in biology External assessment
Century Science) Higher Tier
(Higher Tier)
04 Depth in biology External assessment
Higher Tier
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4b. Special consideration
Special consideration is a post-assessment Detailed information about eligibility for special
adjustment to marks or grades to reflect temporary consideration can be found in the JCQ publication
injury, illness or other indisposition at the time the A guide to the special consideration process.
assessment was taken.
4c. External assessment arrangements

Regulations governing examination arrangements Learners are permitted to use a scientific or graphical
are contained in the JCQ Instructions for conducting calculator for components 01, 02, 03 and 04.
examinations. Calculators are subject to the rules in the document
Instructions for Conducting Examinations published
annually by JCQ (www.jcq.org.uk).
4 Head of centre annual declaration
The Head of Centre is required to provide a Any failure by a centre to provide the Head of Centre
declaration to the JCQ as part of the annual NCN Annual Declaration will result in your centre status
update, conducted in the autumn term, to confirm being suspended and could lead to the withdrawal of
that the centre is meeting all of the requirements our approval for you to operate as a centre.
detailed in the specification.
4d. Results and certificates

Grade Scale
GCSE (91) qualifications are graded on the scale: Only subjects in which grades 9 to 1 are attained will
91, where 9 is the highest. Learners who fail to reach be recorded on certificates.
the minimum standard of 1 will be Unclassified (U).
Results
Results are released to centres and learners for The following supporting information will be available:
information and to allow any queries to be resolved
before certificates are issued. raw mark grade boundaries for each component
Centres will have access to the following results weighted mark grade boundaries for each entry
information for each learner: option.
the grade for the qualification Until certificates are issued, results are deemed to be
provisional and may be subject to amendment.
the raw mark for each component
A learners final results will be recorded on an OCR
the total weighted mark for the qualification. certificate. The qualification title will be shown on the
certificate as OCR Level 1/2 GCSE (91) in Biology B
(Twenty First Century Science).
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4e. Post-results services
A number of post-results services are available: Missing and incomplete results This service
should be used if an individual subject result
Enquiries about results If you are not happy for a learner is missing, or the learner has been
with the outcome of a learners results, centres omitted entirely from the results supplied.
may submit an enquiry about results.
Access to scripts Centres can request access
to marked scripts.
4f. Malpractice
Any breach of the regulations for the conduct OCR as soon as it is detected. Detailed information
of examinations and non-exam assessment on malpractice can be found in the JCQ publication
may constitute malpractice (which includes
maladministration) and must be reported to
Suspected Malpractice in Examinations
and Assessments: Policies and Procedures.
4
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5 Appendices
5a. Overlap with other qualifications

There is a small degree of overlap between the Science) and GCSE (91) in Physics B (Twenty First
content of this specification and those for GCSE (91) Century Science) courses. The links between the
in Combined Science B (Twenty First Century Science), specifications may allow for some co-teaching,
GCSE (91) in Chemistry B (Twenty First Century particularly in the area of working scientifically.
5b. Accessibility
Reasonable adjustments and access arrangements The GCSE (91) qualification and subject criteria have
allow learners with special educational needs, been reviewed in order to identify any feature which
disabilities or temporary injuries to access the could disadvantage learners who share a protected
assessment and show what they know and can do, Characteristic as defined by the Equality Act 2010.
without changing the demands of the assessment. All reasonable steps have been taken to minimise any
4 Applications for these should be made before the
examination series. Detailed information about
such disadvantage.
eligibility for access arrangements can be found

in the JCQ Access Arrangements and Reasonable
5 Adjustments.
OCR 2016
5c. Units in science
It is expected that learners will show understanding They will be able to use them in qualitative work
of the biological quantities and corresponding units, and calculations. These units and their associated
SI base units and derived units listed below. quantities are dimensionally independent.
SI base units
Physical quantity Unit Unit
Length Metre m
Mass kilogram kg
Time second s
Temperature kelvin K
Current Ampere A
Amount of a substance mole mol
SI derived units 5
Physical quantity Unit(s) Unit(s)
Area squared metre m2
Volume cubic metre; litre; cubic decimetre m3; l; dm3
Density kilogram per cubic metre kg/m3
Temperature degree Celsius o
C
Pressure Pascal Pa
Specific heat capacity joule per kilogram per degree Celsius J/kgoC
Specific latent heat joule per kilogram J/kg
Speed metre per second m/s
Force Newton N
Gravitational field strength newton per kilogram N/kg
Acceleration metre per squared second m/s2
Frequency hertz Hz
Energy joule J
Power watt W
Electric charge coulomb C
Electric potential difference volt V
Electric resistance ohm
Magnetic flux density tesla T
OCR 2016
5d. Mathematical skills
The mathematical skills required for the GCSE (91) in biology (B), chemistry (C), physics (P) and combined
science (CS) are shown in the table below.
Mathematical skills Subject

M1 Arithmetic and numerical computation
a Recognise and use expressions in decimal form B C P CS
b Recognise expressions in standard form B C P CS
c Use ratios, fractions and percentages B C P CS
d Make estimates of the results of simple calculations, without using a calculator B C P CS
M2 Handling data
a Use an appropriate number of significant figures B C P CS
b Find arithmetic means B C P CS
c Construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams, bar charts and histograms B C P CS
d Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data B CS
5 e Understand simple probability B CS
f Understand the terms mean, mode and median B P CS
g Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables B P CS
h Make order of magnitude calculations B C P CS
M3 Algebra
a Understand and use the symbols: =, <, <<, >>, >, , ~ B C P CS
b Change the subject of an equation C P CS
c Substitute numerical values into algebraic equations using appropriate units for C P CS
physical quantities
d Solve simple algebraic equations B P CS
M4 Graphs
a Translate information between graphical and numeric form B C P CS
b Understand that y=mx+c represents a linear relationship B C P CS
c Plot two variables from experimental or other data B C P CS
d Determine the slope and intercept of a linear graph B C P CS
e Draw and use the slope of a tangent to a curve as a measure of rate of change C CS
f Understand the physical significance of area between a curve and the x-axis and P CS
measure it by counting squares as appropriate
M5 Geometry and trigonometry
a Use angular measures in degrees P CS
b Visualise and represent 2D and 3D forms including two dimensional C P CS
representations of 3D objects
c Calculate areas of triangles and rectangles, surface areas and volumes of cubes. B C P CS
OCR 2016
5e. Mathematical skills requirement
In order to be able to develop their skills, knowledge In the Higher Tier question papers, the questions that
and understanding in GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty assess mathematical skills will not be lower demand
First Century Science), learners need to have been than that of questions and tasks in the assessment for
taught, and to have acquired competence in, the the Foundation Tier in a GCSE qualification in
appropriate areas of mathematics relevant to the Mathematics.
subject as indicated in the table of coverage below.
The assessment of quantitative skills would include at
The questions and tasks used to target mathematical least 10% GCSE (or above) mathematical skills at the
skills will be at a level of demand that is appropriate appropriate tier for biology.
to GCSE (91) Biology.
These skills will be applied in the context of the
In the Foundation Tier question papers, the questions relevant biology.
that assess mathematical skills will not be of a lower
demand than that which is expected of learners at This list of examples is not exhaustive and is not
Key Stage 3, as outlined in the Department for limited to GCSE examples. These skills could be
Educations document Mathematics programme of developed in other areas of specification content
study: key stage 3. from those indicated.
5
Mathematical skills Specification reference
M1 Arithmetic and numerical computation

a Recognise and use expressions in decimal form 3.1.7a, 3.2.8a, 3.2.8b, 4.1.5b
b Recognise and use expressions in standard form 4.2.2c
c Use ratios, fractions and percentages 1.2.4, 3.1.7a, 3.2.8a, 3.2.8b,
3.2.8d, 3.3.8, 3.3.12, 3.3.14,
3.4.3b, 4.1.5b, 5.1.8
d Make estimates of the results of simple calculations, without using a 4.2.2b
calculator
M2 Handling data
a Use an appropriate number of significant figures 4.2.2a, IaS2.6
b Find arithmetic means 3.1.3b, 3.4.3a, IaS2.1b,
IaS2.8
c Construct and interpret frequency tables and diagrams, bar charts and 3.1.7d, 3.4.3d, 5.4.8a, 6.4.5,
histograms IaS2.4, IaS2.7
d Understand the principles of sampling as applied to scientific data 2.5.3c, 3.4.2, IaS1.5
e Understand simple probability 1.2.5
OCR 2016
Mathematical skills Specification reference
f Understand the terms mean, mode and median 3.1.3b, 3.4.3a, IaS2.8
g Use a scatter diagram to identify a correlation between two variables 2.5.3d, IaS2.8, IaS3.1a
h Make order of magnitude calculations 4.2.2a
M3 Algebra
a Understand and use the symbols: =, <, <<, >>, >, , ~ No direct specification
references but
d Solve simple algebraic equations
statements will be assessed
M4 Graphs
a Translate information between graphical and numeric form 2.5.3a, 2.5.3b, 3.1.3b, 3.1.7b,
3.1.7c, 3.2.8c, 3.4.3c, 5.4.8b,
6.4.5, IaS2.4, IaS2.7
b Understand that y=mx+c represents a linear relationship 3.1.3b, 3.2.8c, IaS2.8
c Plot two variables from experimental or other data 2.5.3b, 3.1.3b, 3.1.7c, 3.2.8c,
5 3.4.3c, IaS2.7
d Determine the slope and intercept of a linear graph 3.2.8c, IaS2.8
M5 Geometry and trigonometry
c Calculate areas of triangles and rectangles, surface areas and volumes 2.4.3, 2.6.2, 5.1.8
of cubes.
OCR 2016
5f. Health and Safety
In UK law, health and safety is primarily the Where an employer has adopted model risk
responsibility of the employer. In a school or college assessments an individual school or college then
the employer could be a local education authority, has to review them, to see if there is a need to
the governing body or board of trustees. Employees modify or adapt them in some way to suit the
(teachers/lecturers, technicians etc.) have a legal particular conditions of the establishment.
duty to cooperate with their employer on health
and safety matters. Various regulations, but especially Such adaptations might include a reduced scale of
the COSHH Regulations 2002 (as amended) and working, deciding that the fume cupboard provision
the Management of Health and Safety at Work was inadequate or the skills of the learners were
Regulations 1999, require that before any activity insufficient to attempt particular activities safely.
involving a hazardous procedure or harmful The significant findings of such risk assessment
microorganisms is carried out, or hazardous should then be recorded in a point of use text ,
chemicals are used or made, the employer must for example on schemes of work, published teachers
carry out a risk assessment. A useful summary of the guides, work sheets, etc. There is no specific legal
requirements for risk assessment in school or college requirement that detailed risk assessment forms
science can be found at: https://www.ase.org.uk should be completed for each practical activity,
although a minority of employers may require this.

For members, the CLEAPSS guide, PS90, Making 5
and recording risk assessments in school science1 Where project work or investigations, sometimes
offers appropriate advice. linked to work-related activities, are included in
specifications this may well lead to the use of
Most education employers have adopted nationally novel procedures, chemicals or microorganisms,
available publications as the basis for their Model which are not covered by the employers model
Risk Assessments. risk assessments. The employer should have given
guidance on how to proceed in such cases. Often,
for members, it will involve contacting CLEAPSS .

1
These, and other CLEAPSS publications, are on the CLEAPSS Science Publications website www.cleapss.org.uk. Note that CLEAPSS
publications are only available to members. For more information about CLEAPSS go to www.cleapss.org.uk.
OCR 2016
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Support and Guidance ii

2 The specification overview  5

3 Assessment of GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) 61

4 Admin: what you need to know 65

1a. Why choose an OCR qualification?

Aims and learning outcomes

1d. How do I find out more information?

Content Overview Assessment Overview

Higher Tier, grades 4 to 9

Content is split into eight teaching chapters:

3 Scientifically. The final chapter describes the

Teaching and learning Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Biology key ideas

Chapter B3: Living together

Chapter B4: Using food and Chapter B6: Life on Earth

(separate science only) environment? on Earth?

Chapter B7: Ideas about Science

Chapter B8: Practical Skills

Overview looks, develops and functions. Topic B1.2 explores

Learning about genes and inheritance before GCSE (91)

B1.1 What is the genome and what does it do?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

and can be the same or different. A different version of a gene

B1.1 What is the genome and what does it do?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B1.2 How is genetic information inherited?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B1.3 How can and should gene technology be used?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Overview issues of risk and decision making, for example with

Learning about health and disease before GCSE (91)

B2.1 What are the causes of disease?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B2.2 How do organisms protect themselves against pathogens?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

antigen. Once the body has made antibodies against a pathogen,

B2.3 How can we prevent the spread of infections?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

science that could

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B2.6 How can we treat disease?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

available. Preclinical testing, for safety and effectiveness, uses

B2.6 How can we treat disease?

Overview fundamental concepts in biology, including enzyme

Learning about food and ecosystems before GCSE (91)

B3.1 What happens during photosynthesis?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B3.1 What happens during photosynthesis?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

B3.2 How do producers get the substances they need?

d)calculate percentage gain and loss of mass

B3.3 How are organisms in an ecosystem interdependent?

B3.4 How are populations affected by conditions in an ecosystem?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Overview explanations were only developed once a

Learning about cellular respiration and growth before GCSE (91)

B4.1 What happens during cellular respiration?

Teaching and learning narrative Assessable learning outcomes Linked learning

Support and Guidance ii

2 The specification overview 5

3 Assessment of GCSE (91) in Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) 61

4 Admin: what you need to know 65

d)calculate percentage gain and loss of mass

b)translate information between numerical and graphical forms