Edexcel IGCSE Human Biology specification (4HB1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Human 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.
Examiner-written revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel IGCSE Human 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 Edexcel IGCSE Human Biology (4HB1) 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 Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Edexcel International GCSE in Human Biology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the human body, its structure, function and interactions. It focuses on key systems and processes, encouraging learners to apply scientific principles to health-related issues. The course fosters scientific enquiry, experimental technique, critical analysis and evaluation skills. It is especially suited to those progressing into fields such as medicine, healthcare, genetics or physiology. Learners develop logical problem-solving approaches and the ability to interpret data and biological evidence, enhancing readiness for further scientific study or science-based careers.
Subject content breakdown
1 Cells and tissues
- Identify and describe cell structures; DNA and RNA roles in protein synthesis.
- Understand mitosis, stem cells, and organisation of cells into tissues and organs.
- Study specialised cells including sperm, ovum, and various tissue types.
2 Biological molecules
- Structure and tests for carbohydrates, proteins, lipids.
- Enzyme action and factors affecting activity; immobilised enzyme uses.
3 Movement of substances
- Understand diffusion, osmosis, active transport and influencing factors.
4 Bones, muscles and joints
- Structure/function of skeleton and joints; muscle action and dietary factors.
5 Coordination
- Structure of the CNS and brain; reflexes, receptors, hormone action.
- Eye and ear function; mental health, drugs and nervous system.
6 Nutrition and energy
- Balanced diet, digestion, absorption, enzymes, and food safety.
- Links to deficiency diseases, obesity, cholesterol, BMI.
7 Respiration
- Aerobic and anaerobic respiration; ATP, energy release, gas composition.
8 Gas exchange
- Thorax structure, lung ventilation, adaptations, breathing rate, fitness effects.
9 Internal transport
- Blood composition and function; heart structure, blood vessels, diseases.
- Use of statins, ACE inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies.
10 Homeostatic mechanisms
- Temperature regulation, osmoregulation, liver and kidney function.
- ADH, insulin, glucagon, dialysis, excretion.
11 Reproduction and heredity
- Fertilisation, reproduction, IVF, contraception, genetic inheritance.
- Meiosis, genetic diagrams, inherited conditions, gene therapy.
12 Disease
- Pathogens, disease transmission/prevention (Ebola, HIV, cholera, malaria).
- Antibiotics, immunity, vaccines, sewage treatment, decomposers.
Assessment structure
Human Biology Paper 1 (4HB1/01)
- 1 hour 45 minutes; 90 marks; 50% of qualification.
- Covers all 12 topics.
- Mixture of question styles: multiple-choice, short-answer, calculations, extended response.
Human Biology Paper 2 (4HB1/02)
- 1 hour 45 minutes; 90 marks; 50% of qualification.
- Same topic coverage; includes comprehension questions.
- Similar mix of question types.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1 (Knowledge): 38–42%
- AO2 (Application & Evaluation): 38–42%
- AO3 (Experimental skills): 19–21%
Experimental Skills
- Assessed through written exams, not separate practicals.
- Skills include planning, analysing, evaluating, and interpreting data from investigations.
Grading
- Based on total raw marks from both papers (180 total).
- Awarded on a 9–1 scale; no internal assessment component.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Human 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.
Share this article