SQA National 5 Biology specification (X807 75)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA National 5 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 SQA National 5 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 SQA National 5 Biology (X807 75) 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 SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The National 5 Biology course develops learners’ understanding of biological principles and their application to the environment, industry and everyday life. It encourages the development of scientific inquiry and investigative skills, alongside the ability to evaluate scientific issues using analytical thinking. The course supports learners in exploring how biology affects their lives and the environment, promoting awareness of biodiversity, sustainability and technological advances. It provides a foundation for further study and enhances skills relevant to the sciences and wider society.
Subject content breakdown
1. Cell Biology
- Cell structure and function
- Transport across cell membranes (diffusion, osmosis, active transport)
- DNA, production of proteins and genetic engineering
- Respiration and energy release
- Enzymes and factors affecting enzyme activity
2. Multicellular Organisms
- Cells, tissues and organs
- Stem cells and differentiation
- Control and communication (nervous system, hormones)
- Reproduction and inheritance
- Growth and development in animals and plants
- Transport systems in plants and animals
3. Life on Earth
- Biodiversity and the distribution of organisms
- Energy in ecosystems and food production
- Impact of population growth and pollution
- Natural selection and evolution
- Behaviour of organisms and fieldwork techniques
Assessment structure
Question Paper
- Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
- 100 marks
- Section 1: Multiple-choice (25 marks)
- Section 2: Structured and extended-response questions (75 marks)
- Assesses knowledge and understanding across all three units
Assignment
- Carried out under supervision
- Includes a research stage and a report stage
Report marked externally; worth 20 marks (20% of total grade)
- Grade awarded: A–D or 'No Award'
- Designed for SQA certification
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA National 5 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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