Cambridge Pre-U Syllabus - Cambridge International Examinations

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Curriculum Content
The syllabus is divided into five sections, as follows:
Section 1 The Cell
1.1 Eukaryotic cell structure
1.2 Prokaryotic cells
1.3 Cell replication
1.4 Enzymes
1.5 Respiration
1.6 Genes and protein synthesis
1.7 Applications of cell biology
Section 2 The Origin and Evolution of Life
2.1 The origins of life
2.2 The chemicals of life
2.3 The evolution of life
2.4 Classification
Section 3 Animal Physiology
3.1 Transport systems
3.2 Nutrition
3.3 Nerves, muscles and behaviour
3.4 Homeostasis and cell signalling
3.5 The immune system
3.6 Reproduction
Section 4 The Life of Plants
4.1 Transport in plants
4.2 Photosynthesis
4.3 Reproduction
4.4 Control of plant processes
Section 5 Environmental Studies
5.1 Adaptation
5.2 Measuring and conserving biodiversity
Cambridge Pre-U Draft
Cambridge Pre-U Biology places considerable emphasis on the understanding and use of scientific ideas
and principles in a variety of situations, including those which are new to candidates. As described in the
Aims, it is expected that programmes of study based on this syllabus will feature a variety of teacher-centred
and student-centred learning experiences designed to enhance the development of skills and
comprehension. It will also prepare candidates for an assessment that will, within less familiar contexts, test
expertise, understanding and insight. A scheme of work should be produced by teachers to reflect the
sequence and repertoire of learning opportunities that they feel are most appropriate for their candidates.