An Updated Overview of Cambridge iGCSE Biology for Teachers
A Must-Read for International British School Teachers, including syllabus overview, assessment, teaching focus & top iGCSE resources.
Cambridge iGCSE Biology (0610) is one of the most widely taught science qualifications worldwide. It is a rigorous, internationally recognised curriculum designed to build strong scientific understanding and practical skills in learners aged 14–16 and beyond.
Whether you’re planning your next scheme of work, seeking iGCSE resources for classroom delivery, or prepping students for examination success, this guide breaks down everything you need to know from the official Cambridge specification (2026–2028).
Why teach Cambridge iGCSE Biology?
Cambridge iGCSE Biology isn’t just content-heavy. It develops scientific literacy, inquiry skills, and real-world applications of biology. Learners gain a foundation for:
- Further science study (e.g., AS & A Levels)
- University-level biology and health-related paths
- Careers in science, healthcare, and research
Cambridge emphasises understanding, not memorisation. Your students learn how biology works in the world around them.
What’s in the 0610 Specification?
The full syllabus PDF from Cambridge International outlines the content, objectives, assessment structure and practical assessment requirements for exams starting in 2026.
Key Topics Covered
- 1 Characteristics and classification of living organisms
- 2 Organisation of the organism
- 3 Movement into and out of cells
- 4 Biological molecules
- 5 Enzymes
- 6 Plant nutrition
- 7 Human nutrition
- 8 Transport in plants
- 9 Transport in animals
- 10 Diseases and immunity
- 11 Gas exchange in humans
- 12 Respiration
- 13 Excretion in humans
- 14 Coordination and response
- 15 Drugs
- 16 Reproduction
- 17 Inheritance
- 18 Variation and selection
- 19 Organisms and their environment
- 20 Human influences on ecosystems
- 21 Biotechnology and genetic modification
Assessment Structure Explained
Cambridge iGCSE Biology is assessed through:
- Papers 1/2 consist of 40 multiple-choice questions
- Papers 3/4 consist of short answers and structured questions
- Papers 5/6 consist of questions based on experimental skills
Your students can study the Core subject content or the Supplement subject content.
The exam series is offered in June and November (and March in some regions such as India).
Cambridge and Seneca Learning provide schemes of work, specimen papers, and examiner reports to guide classroom assessment and lesson planning.
Essential iGCSE Teaching Resources
To support your delivery of the Cambridge Biology specification, here are key resource types you should integrate:
- Syllabus & official documents
- Free digital platforms
- Past papers & mark schemes
- AI-generated quizzes based on your own resources
- Descriptions of practical activities
Access high-quality Cambridge iGCSE Biology resources
Tips for International British School Educators
- Plan with the syllabus in mind. Every lesson should link back to a learning objective from the official document.
- Use data-handling tasks. Scientific literacy is more than facts; it’s the ability to interpret and communicate.
- Emphasise practical skills early. Students who engage with experiments throughout the course perform better on assessments.
- Share iGCSE resources. Collaborate with colleagues and leverage international teacher networks for fresh ideas.
Final Thoughts
Cambridge iGCSE Biology provides an enriching, flexible teaching framework that cultivates confident, curious and capable young scientists. Its blend of theory and practical application prepares learners for future study and life beyond the classroom.
By aligning your teaching to the latest syllabus, using high-quality iGCSE resources, and centring your instruction on skills and understanding, you’ll support your students to excel in both internal assessments and final examinations.
