OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) specification (J257)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) (J257) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
OCR GCSE (9–1) Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) enables students to explore biological concepts through engaging contexts and narrative-based learning. The course develops scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding while fostering inquiry, analysis, and critical evaluation skills. Students learn about the applications of science and its impact on society, with a focus on the interdependence of organisms, human health, genetics, biodiversity, and evolution. The curriculum also promotes practical competence and understanding of scientific methods, ensuring learners are well prepared for further scientific study or informed citizenship in a rapidly changing world:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
B1 You and your genes
- The genome, DNA, genes, alleles, and protein synthesis.
- Genetic inheritance, dominant/recessive alleles, and Mendel’s work.
- Genetic testing, engineering, ethics, and applications in medicine and agriculture.
B2 Keeping healthy
- Communicable and non-communicable diseases, causes and transmission.
- Human and plant defence mechanisms.
- Disease prevention, vaccination, and monoclonal antibodies.
- Identifying infections, aseptic techniques, and diagnostic methods.
- Impact of lifestyle, genes, and environment on health.
- Treatments for disease, antibiotic resistance, and medicine development.
B3 Living together – food and ecosystems
- Photosynthesis processes, enzymes, and environmental factors.
- Substance transport in producers (diffusion, osmosis, active transport).
- Ecosystem interdependence, food webs, competition, and biomass transfer.
- Biogeochemical cycles (carbon and water), decomposition, and environmental factors.
- Population changes, abiotic and biotic factors, bioaccumulation, eutrophication.
B4 Using food and controlling growth
- Aerobic and anaerobic respiration and ATP production.
- Cell structures, microscopy, and scientific advancements.
- Cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis, stem cells, and differentiation.
- Plant growth control, hormones, tropisms, and human uses.
- Stem cells in medicine, benefits, risks, and ethics.
B5 The human body – staying alive
- Exchange surfaces, circulation, and transport systems.
- Nervous system, synapses, reflexes, and brain function.
- Hormonal control, endocrine system, and feedback mechanisms.
- Homeostasis, temperature, water balance, and ADH.
- Hormonal control in reproduction, contraception, and fertility treatment.
- Organ failure, diabetes management, eye function, nervous system damage.
B6 Life on Earth – past, present and future
- Evolution, natural selection, competition, and genetic variation.
- Fossil evidence, Darwin and Wallace, antibiotic resistance.
- Sexual vs asexual reproduction and its effect on evolution.
- Biological classification, DNA analysis, and phylogenetics.
- Threats to biodiversity, conservation, food security, and biotechnology.
B7 Ideas about Science
- Scientific investigation, hypothesis testing, and data analysis.
- Evaluating data reliability, accuracy, and scientific explanations.
- Peer review, model use, and the development of scientific theories.
- Science’s impact on society, risk assessment, ethics, and communication.
B8 Practical Skills
- At least eight practical activities across different groups (e.g. microscopy, biological molecules, sampling, enzymes, photosynthesis, physiology, microbiology, and transport).
- Development of practical skills, accurate measurement, data recording, and risk assessment.
- Practical work supports theoretical understanding and exam readiness:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Foundation Tier (Grades 1–5)
- Breadth in biology (J257/01)
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks.
- Covers all chapters.
- 50% of total GCSE.
- Depth in biology (J257/02)
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks.
- Covers all chapters.
- 50% of total GCSE.
Higher Tier (Grades 4–9)
- Breadth in biology (J257/03)
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks.
- Covers all chapters.
- 50% of total GCSE.
Depth in biology (J257/04)
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks.
- Covers all chapters.
- 50% of total GCSE.
- Each paper assesses knowledge, practical skills, mathematical understanding, and Ideas about Science.
- No coursework; assessment is through external written examinations only.
- Practical skills assessed via exam questions.
- 15% of exam marks are dedicated to practical skills.
- Mathematical skills contribute at least 10% of the marks.
- Assessment objectives:
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding (40%)
- AO2: Application of knowledge (40%)
- AO3: Analysis, interpretation, and evaluation (20%):contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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