4 - Biology SL

Assessment

Standard level external assessment Paper 1: 1.5 hours – 36% A. Multiple-choice questions B. Synoptic data-based questions Paper 2: 1.5 hours – 44% A. Data-based questions from unfamiliar contexts B. Short-answer questions C. Extended response questions Internal Assessment – 20% The scientific investigation is an open-ended task in which the student gathers and analyses data in order to answer their own formulated research question. There is opportunity for students to collaborate and support each other within small groups. Where appropriate, students will be able to share similar methodologies, provided that the independent or dependent variable differ, and the data collected is unique to each student. The outcome of the scientific investigation will be assessed through the form of a written report, with emphasis on higher-order thinking skills of conclusion and evaluation. The maximum overall word count for the report is 3,000 words.