Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Marine Science specification (0697)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Marine 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.
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 Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Marine 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 Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Marine Science (0697) 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 Cambridge (CIE) specification PDF.
Specification overview
Cambridge IGCSE Marine Science encourages learners to develop a broad understanding of the marine environment, integrating knowledge from biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science. The course builds scientific enquiry skills, helping students investigate marine systems and understand human interactions with oceans. It promotes critical awareness of oceanic issues and sustainable practices. Learners explore biodiversity, ecosystems, resource management, and the physical and chemical properties of seawater, preparing them for further studies and fostering a responsible attitude toward marine conservation.
Subject content breakdown
1. Planet Earth
- Structure and composition of Earth and ocean basins
- Plate tectonics, mid-ocean ridges, trenches, earthquakes, volcanoes
- Formation and features of coastlines
2. Earth processes
- Weathering, erosion, and sediment transport
- Wind, wave, and tidal action on coasts
- Impact of atmospheric and oceanic circulation
3. Interactions of organisms in the marine environment
- Food chains and webs, predator–prey relationships
- Competition, symbiosis, parasitism
- Energy transfer, ecological pyramids
4. Classification of organisms
- Major taxonomic groups of marine organisms
- Features and examples of each group
- Importance of classification for biodiversity
5. Adaptations of organisms
- Physiological and behavioural adaptations to different marine habitats
- Adaptations for feeding, movement, and defence
- Deep sea, polar, and intertidal zone adaptations
6. Biodiversity of marine ecosystems
- Coral reefs, mangroves, estuaries, hydrothermal vents
- Community structure and abiotic factors
- Ecosystem services and threats to biodiversity
7. Human influences on the marine environment
- Pollution, overfishing, climate change
- Coral bleaching, habitat destruction, eutrophication
- Sustainable practices and conservation efforts
8. The ocean as a resource
- Fisheries, aquaculture, mineral extraction, desalination
- Renewable energy from tides, waves, and currents
- Resource management and environmental impacts
9. Shipping and the ocean
- History and development of marine transport
- Navigation, communication, and safety
- Pollution and regulation
10. Marine science and society
- Importance of marine science for policy and management
- Role in sustainable development
- Careers and contributions of marine scientists
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Theory
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 80 marks
- Structured and short-answer questions covering the full syllabus
- All questions compulsory
Paper 2 – Paper 2
- 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
- Questions test practical skills, data handling, and enquiry-based approaches
- Includes planning, analysis, interpretation, and evaluation
All questions compulsory
- Both papers externally assessed
- Grades awarded: A* to G
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Marine 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.
Share this article