WJEC GCSE Biology specification (3400)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your WJEC GCSE Biology 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 WJEC GCSE Biology 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 WJEC GCSE Biology (3400) 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 WJEC specification PDF.
Specification overview
This WJEC GCSE Biology course offers learners a broad and coherent study of the living world. It encourages a positive attitude towards science and highlights its significance in personal, societal, and global contexts. The qualification builds a foundation in biological concepts, scientific methods, and practical skills. It fosters critical thinking and the ability to analyse and evaluate scientific evidence. Practical work is embedded to enhance conceptual understanding and enjoyment of the subject. Learners will explore key scientific ideas such as cause and effect, energy transfers, and the role of models and theories in explaining natural phenomena.Subject content breakdown
2.1 Unit 1: Cells, Organ Systems and Ecosystems
- Structure and function of animal and plant cells, specialised cells and levels of organisation
- Diffusion, osmosis and active transport
- Enzyme structure and activity
- Aerobic and anaerobic respiration; respiratory system structure and function
- Human digestive system and enzyme roles; tests for nutrients
- Circulatory system structure, blood vessels, and cardiovascular disease
- Photosynthesis, limiting factors and transport in plants
- Ecosystem structures, nutrient cycles, human impact, food chains/webs, and sustainability
2.2 Unit 2: Variation, Homeostasis and Micro-organisms
- Classification systems, biodiversity and sampling methods
- Mitosis and meiosis; stem cells and cancer
- DNA structure, genetic inheritance and profiling; gene transfer
- Variation types, mutations, and natural selection
- Nervous system, reflexes, eye structure and regulation of internal conditions
- Kidney function, nephron structure, water regulation and treatments for failure
- Culturing microorganisms; industrial penicillin production
- Pathogens and disease transmission, immunity, vaccines, antibiotics and monoclonal antibodies
2.3 Unit 3: Practical Assessment
- Tasks testing experimental, analysis and evaluation skills
- Completion of one externally marked task in spring term
- Task divided into Section A (obtaining results) and Section B (analysis and evaluation)
Assessment structure
Unit 1: Cells, Organ Systems and Ecosystems
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 45% of qualification (80 marks)
- Tiered paper (Foundation and Higher)
- Includes short and extended responses, structured and data response questions, some in practical contexts
Unit 2: Variation, Homeostasis and Micro-organisms
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 45% of qualification (80 marks)
- Tiered paper (Foundation and Higher)
- Includes short and extended responses, structured and data response questions, some in practical contexts
Unit 3: Practical Assessment
- 10% of qualification (30 marks)
- Untiered assessment
- Completed in final year of study, in January–February
- Section A (6 marks): group-based data collection (60 minutes)
- Section B (24 marks): individual analysis and evaluation under formal supervision (60 minutes)
Key tips for success
Doing well in your WJEC GCSE Biology 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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