WAEC GCE Biology Syllabus 2025/2026
The 2025/2026 WAEC GCE Biology syllabus is designed to assess candidates’ understanding of biological concepts, processes, and applications. It covers topics in cell biology, genetics, ecology, physiology, and evolution, preparing students for further studies in life sciences, medicine, and agriculture.
This syllabus applies to candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates (GCE). It emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in biology.
Scheme of Examination
- Paper 1: Objectives
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 1 hour
- Marks: 50
- Paper 2: Theory
- Section A: Short-structured questions (answer all)
- Section B: Essay questions (answer four out of six)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 80
- Paper 3: Practical / Alternative to Practical
- Practical-based questions or theoretical alternatives
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 60
Core Syllabus Topics
1. Living Organisms
- Characteristics of living things
- Classification of organisms
- Cell structure and functions
- Levels of organization
2. The Cell and Its Environment
- Cell membrane and transport
- Diffusion, osmosis, active transport
- Cell division: mitosis and meiosis
3. Nutrition
- Autotrophic and heterotrophic nutrition
- Photosynthesis and chemosynthesis
- Human digestive system
- Nutritional disorders
4. Respiration
- Aerobic and anaerobic respiration
- Energy production and ATP
- Respiratory systems in animals and plants
5. Excretion
- Excretory organs in humans and other organisms
- Processes and waste products
- Homeostasis
6. Support and Movement
- Skeleton types and functions
- Muscles and joints
- Locomotion in animals
7. Transport
- Transport systems in plants and animals
- Blood and circulatory system
- Lymphatic system
8. Reproduction
- Asexual and sexual reproduction
- Reproductive systems in humans
- Fertilization, development, and birth
- Reproductive health
9. Growth
- Measurement and patterns of growth
- Factors affecting growth
- Differentiation and development
10. Coordination and Control
- Nervous system and endocrine system
- Sense organs and stimuli
- Hormones and feedback mechanisms
11. Ecology
- Ecosystems and biotic factors
- Food chains and webs
- Energy flow and nutrient cycles
- Population studies and conservation
12. Genetics
- Heredity and variation
- Mendelian genetics
- Chromosomes and DNA
- Genetic disorders and biotechnology
13. Evolution
- Theories of evolution
- Evidence and mechanisms
- Adaptation and natural selection
14. Microorganisms and Disease
- Types of microorganisms
- Pathogens and immunity
- Disease prevention and control
15. Practical Biology
- Laboratory techniques
- Microscopy and specimen handling
- Drawing and labeling biological diagrams
- Experimental design and data interpretation
Sample Questions
Objective Example:
Which of the following is a function of the mitochondrion?
- Protein synthesis
- Energy production
- Storage of starch
- Cell division
Answer: B. Energy production
Essay Example:
Describe the process of photosynthesis and explain the importance of chlorophyll.
Answer Tip: Include light and dark reactions, role of chlorophyll, and equation of photosynthesis.
Practical Example:
You are given a leaf and iodine solution. Describe how you would test for the presence of starch.