Biology Paper 2 Topics: Complete Guide to Syllabus, Revision & Past Papers

Biology Paper 2 is often considered one of the most challenging yet scoring papers in both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and AQA Biology syllabi. Unlike Paper 1, which focuses heavily on multiple-choice questions, Paper 2 tests depth of understanding, application, data analysis, and structured responses.

What Is Biology Paper 2?

Biology Paper 2 is a structured response paper designed to test:

Conceptual understanding
Application of biological knowledge
Experimental design and data analysis
Extended written answers

Key Features of Biology Paper 2:

Short-answer questions
Data-based questions
One or more extended response questions
Questions that link multiple topics together

This paper rewards students who understand concepts deeply, not those who rely on memorization alone.

International Baccalaureate Biology Syllabus (Paper 2)

For IB Biology, Paper 2 assesses both SL and HL content, with HL students answering additional questions.

IB Biology Paper 2 Structure

Section A: Data-based questions (all students)
Section B: Short-answer and extended response questions
HL only: Extra questions from HL topics

IB Biology Paper 2 Topics (Core)

These topics are taken directly from the IB Biology syllabus and frequently appear in Paper 2.

1. Cell Biology

Cell structure and function
Membrane transport
Cell division (mitosis & meiosis)
Stem cells

2. Molecular Biology

Water and biomolecules
Enzymes and metabolism
DNA structure and replication
Transcription and translation

3. Genetics

Mendelian inheritance
Genetic crosses
Mutations
Gene pools and inheritance patterns

4. Ecology

Species, communities, and ecosystems
Energy flow
Carbon cycle
Population dynamics

5. Evolution and Biodiversity

Natural selection
Evidence for evolution
Classification systems
Speciation

6. Human Physiology

Digestion
Circulation
Respiration
Hormones and homeostasis

IB Biology Paper 2 Topics (Higher Level Only)

HL students must prepare additional topics that frequently appear in extended response questions.

7. Nucleic Acids

DNA replication
Transcription & translation
Gene expression

8. Metabolism, Cell Respiration & Photosynthesis

Glycolysis
Krebs cycle
Light-dependent & independent reactions

9. Plant Biology

Transport in plants
Transpiration
Growth and development

10. Genetics and Evolution (HL)

Gene linkage
Chi-square tests
Polygenic inheritance

11. Animal Physiology

Immune system
Kidney function
Neurobiology

AQA Biology Paper 2 Topics

If you’re preparing for AQA Biology Paper 2, the content differs slightly depending on GCSE or A-Level, but the structure is similar.

AQA Biology Paper 2 Topics Include:

Homeostasis and response
Inheritance, variation, and evolution
Ecology
Photosynthesis
Respiration
Nervous and hormonal control
Ecosystems and biodiversity

AQA Biology Paper 2 Skills Tested:

Interpreting graphs and data
Required practical analysis
Application of biological principles
Extended response writing

What Topics Are in Biology Paper 2? (Quick Summary)

Here’s a simplified overview of paper 2 biology topics across exam boards:

Area	Covered in Paper 2
Cell & Molecular Biology	✅
Genetics & Inheritance	✅
Ecology & Environment	✅
Human Physiology	✅
Practical/Data Analysis	✅
Extended Response Questions	✅

Biology Paper 2 Past Papers: How to Use Them Effectively

Using Biology Paper 2 past papers correctly can increase your grade by 1–2 levels.

Step-by-Step Past Paper Strategy

Start topic-wise
- Practice questions from one topic at a time
Use mark schemes actively
- Highlight command terms
- Note key phrasing examiners want
Time yourself
- Practice under exam conditions
Track repeated questions
- IB and AQA often recycle question styles

Pro Tip:

Focus on extended response questions, as these carry high marks and differentiate top students.

Biology Paper 2 Revision: Smart Strategies That Work

1. Active Recall Over Reading

Flashcards
Blurting technique
Practice questions

2. Link Topics Together

Paper 2 questions often combine:

Genetics + evolution
Cell biology + metabolism
Ecology + human impact

3. Master Command Terms

Know how to respond to:

Explain
Compare
Evaluate
Outline

4. Use Diagrams in Answers

Clear, labeled diagrams can:

Save time
Earn method marks
Improve clarity

Common Mistakes in Biology Paper 2

Avoid these frequent errors:

Writing too much without answering the question
Ignoring data provided in graphs or tables
Not using correct biological terminology
Weak structure in extended responses

How Many Marks Is Biology Paper 2 Worth?

IB Biology Paper 2: ~40–50% of final grade
AQA Biology Paper 2: ~33–50% depending on level

This makes Paper 2 one of the most important papers for overall success.

Final Tips to Score High in Biology Paper 2

✔ Know your biology paper 2 topics thoroughly
✔ Practice biology paper 2 past papers regularly
✔ Focus on application, not memorization
✔ Get feedback from expert tutors
✔ Revise using examiner language

Need Help With Biology Paper 2?

If you’re struggling with:

IB Biology Paper 2
AQA Biology Paper 2
Extended response questions
Time management

One-to-one online biology tutoring can dramatically improve your performance with personalized revision plans and exam-focused strategies.