Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Biology

Course Content

Areas of Study in iGCSE Biology From 2019

Structure and Functions in Living Organisms 88 lessons

Biological Molecules 12 lessons

1 Elements in Biological Molecules

2 Carbohydrate Structure and Function

3 Protein Structure from Amino Acids

4 Lipid Structure and Composition

5 Food Tests - Glucose and Starch

6 Food Tests - Protein and Fats

7 Enzymes as Biological Catalysts

8 Enzyme Structure and Active Sites

9 Temperature Effects on Enzymes

10 Temperature Practical Investigation

11 pH Effects on Enzyme Function

12 pH Practical Investigation

Cell Structure 10 lessons

1 Cell Theory and Basic Structure

2 Nucleus and Genetic Material

3 Cytoplasm and Cell Membrane

4 Mitochondria and Energy Production

5 Chloroplasts and Photosynthesis

6 Ribosomes and Protein Synthesis

7 Vacuoles and Cell Walls

8 Plant vs Animal Cell Differences

9 Cell Differentiation and Specialisation

10 Stem Cells in Medicine

Gas Exchange - Humans 6 lessons

1 Thorax Structure and Components

2 Ventilation Mechanism

3 Alveoli Adaptations for Gas Exchange

4 Smoking Effects on Health

5 Practical Investigation - Breathing

6 Exercise Effects on Breathing

Gas Exchange - Plants 6 lessons

1 Diffusion in Gas Exchange

2 Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen Exchange

3 Leaf Structure for Gas Exchange

4 Stomata Function and Control

5 Day and Night Gas Exchange

6 Practical Investigation - Gas Exchange

Movement of Substances 8 lessons

1 Diffusion Principles and Examples

2 Osmosis in Living Systems

3 Active Transport Mechanisms

4 Factors Affecting Movement Rates

5 Surface Area to Volume Ratios

6 Practical Investigation - Diffusion

7 Practical Investigation - Osmosis

8 Transport Summary and Applications

Nutrition - Humans 12 lessons

1 Balanced Diet Components

2 Carbohydrates, Proteins and Lipids

3 Vitamins A, C and D Functions

4 Mineral Ions - Calcium and Iron

5 Water and Dietary Fibre Importance

6 Energy Requirements and Activity

7 Alimentary Canal Structure

8 Digestive System Organs

9 Peristalsis and Food Movement

10 Digestive Enzymes and Functions

11 Bile Production and Function

12 Small Intestine Absorption Adaptations

Nutrition - Plants 10 lessons

1 Photosynthesis Process Overview

2 Photosynthesis Word and Symbol Equations

3 Factors Limiting Photosynthesis Rate

4 Leaf Structure Adaptations

5 Mineral Requirements for Growth

6 Magnesium and Chlorophyll Formation

7 Nitrates and Amino Acid Production

8 Photosynthesis Practical - Oxygen Evolution

9 Photosynthesis Practical - Starch Production

10 Light and Carbon Dioxide Requirements

Respiration 8 lessons

1 ATP Production in Living Organisms

2 ATP as Energy Currency

3 Aerobic vs Anaerobic Respiration

4 Aerobic Respiration Equations

5 Anaerobic Respiration in Plants and Animals

6 Practical Investigation - Respiration

7 Carbon Dioxide and Heat Production

8 Respiration in Different Organisms

Transport Systems 16 lessons

1 Need for Transport Systems

2 Plant Transport - Phloem Function

3 Plant Transport - Xylem Function

4 Water Absorption by Root Hairs

5 Transpiration Process

6 Factors Affecting Transpiration Rate

7 Practical Investigation - Transpiration

8 Blood Composition and Components

9 Plasma Transport Functions

10 Red Blood Cell Adaptations

11 White Blood Cells and Immunity

12 Vaccination and Memory Cells

13 Blood Clotting and Platelets

14 Heart Structure and Function

15 Heart Rate and Exercise

16 Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors

The Nature and Variety of Living Organisms 20 lessons

Characteristics of Living Organisms 4 lessons

1 The Seven Life Processes

2 Nutrition and Respiration Requirements

3 Growth, Movement and Reproduction

4 Response to Environment and Excretion

Levels of Organisation 4 lessons

1 From Cells to Systems

2 Organelles and Cell Structure

3 Tissues and Organs

4 Organ Systems Integration

Variety of Living Organisms 12 lessons

1 Introduction to Classification Systems

2 Eukaryotic Organisms Overview

3 Plant Characteristics and Examples

4 Animal Characteristics and Examples

5 Fungi Characteristics and Nutrition

6 Protoctist Diversity

7 Prokaryotic Organisms - Bacteria

8 Bacterial Structure and Function

9 Pathogens and Disease

10 Viruses - Structure and Reproduction

11 Viral Diseases and Examples

12 Classification Review and Assessment

Ecology and the Environment 44 lessons

Ecosystems and Populations 16 lessons

1 Ecological Terminology

2 Population Size Investigations

3 Quadrat Sampling Techniques

4 Biodiversity Concepts

5 Distribution Investigation Methods

6 Biodiversity Measurement

7 Abiotic Factor Effects

8 Biotic Factor Influences

9 Environmental Monitoring

10 Population Distribution Patterns

11 Sampling Methodology

12 Statistical Analysis of Data

13 Habitat Assessment

14 Species Interaction Studies

15 Community Structure

16 Ecosystem Stability

Food Chains and Energy Flow 12 lessons

1 Trophic Levels and Terminology

2 Producer and Consumer Roles

3 Decomposer Functions

4 Food Chain Construction

5 Food Web Interactions

6 Pyramid of Numbers

7 Pyramid of Biomass

8 Pyramid of Energy Transfer

9 Energy Transfer Efficiency

10 10% Energy Transfer Rule

11 Energy Loss Between Levels

12 Food Chain Length Limitations

Human Impact on Environment 8 lessons

1 Air Pollution Effects

2 Sulfur Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide

3 Greenhouse Gases

4 Human Activities and Emissions

5 Enhanced Greenhouse Effect

6 Global Warming Consequences

7 Water Pollution by Sewage

8 Eutrophication Process and Effects

Nutrient Cycles 8 lessons

1 Carbon Cycle Overview

2 Respiration in Carbon Cycle

3 Photosynthesis Role

4 Decomposition and Combustion

5 Nitrogen Cycle Stages

6 Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria

7 Decomposer Bacteria Function

8 Nitrifying and Denitrifying Bacteria

Reproduction and Inheritance 72 lessons

Evolution and Selection 12 lessons

1 DNA Changes and Phenotype

2 Mutation Effects on Organisms

3 Ionising Radiation Effects

4 Chemical Mutagens

5 Darwins Theory of Evolution

6 Natural Selection Process

7 Antibiotic Resistance Development

8 Bacterial Population Changes

9 Selection Pressures

10 Adaptive Advantages

11 Evolution Evidence

12 Modern Applications

Genetic Technology 16 lessons

1 Restriction Enzymes Function

2 Ligase Enzymes and DNA Joining

3 Plasmids and Vectors

4 Recombinant DNA Technology

5 Insulin Production from Bacteria

6 Genetically Modified Plants

7 Transgenic Organisms

8 Micropropagation Process

9 Tissue Culture Applications

10 Commercial Plant Production

11 Cloning Mammals

12 Nuclear Transfer Technique

13 Dolly the Sheep Case Study

14 Transgenic Animal Applications

15 Human Protein Production

16 Ethical Considerations

Inheritance 24 lessons

1 Genome and Gene Structure

2 Chromosomes and Gene Location

3 DNA Double Helix Structure

4 Base Pairing Rules

5 RNA Structure and Function

6 Protein Synthesis - Transcription

7 Protein Synthesis - Translation

8 mRNA, tRNA and Codons

9 Genes and Alleles

10 Genetic Terminology

11 Codominance in Inheritance

12 Polygenic Inheritance

13 Monohybrid Cross Diagrams

14 Family Pedigree Analysis

15 Probability in Genetics

16 Sex Determination

17 Sex-Linked Inheritance

18 Mitosis and Identical Chromosomes

19 Mitosis Applications

20 Meiosis and Gamete Formation

21 Genetic Variation from Fertilisation

22 Chromosome Numbers in Humans

23 Sources of Variation

24 Mutations and Inheritance

Reproduction 20 lessons

1 Sexual vs Asexual Reproduction

2 Fertilisation and Gamete Fusion

3 Insect-Pollinated Flower Structure

4 Wind-Pollinated Flower Structure

5 Pollination Adaptations

6 Seed and Fruit Formation

7 Seed Germination Conditions

8 Germination Practical Investigation

9 Food Reserves in Seeds

10 Asexual Reproduction in Plants

11 Natural Methods - Runners

12 Artificial Methods - Cuttings

13 Human Reproductive Systems

14 Reproductive System Adaptations

15 Menstrual Cycle - Oestrogen and Progesterone

16 FSH and LH in Menstrual Cycle

17 Placenta Function and Development

18 Amniotic Fluid Protection

19 Secondary Sexual Characteristics

20 Hormones in Development

Use of Biological Resources 36 lessons

Food Production 16 lessons

1 Crop Yield Enhancement

2 Glasshouse and Polytunnel Use

3 Carbon Dioxide Effects on Crops

4 Temperature Control in Growing

5 Fertiliser Use and Benefits

6 Pest Control Methods

7 Pesticide Advantages and Disadvantages

8 Biological Control Methods

9 Yeast in Food Production

10 Bread Making Process

11 Yeast Respiration Investigation

12 Anaerobic Conditions and Yeast

13 Bacterial Food Production

14 Yoghurt Production Process

15 Industrial Fermenter Use

16 Fish Farming Methods

Selective Breeding and Biotechnology 20 lessons

1 Plant Selective Breeding

2 Desired Plant Characteristics

3 Animal Selective Breeding

4 Desired Animal Traits

5 Breeding Programme Design

6 Genetic Improvement Techniques

7 Modern Breeding Methods

8 Biotechnology Applications

9 Industrial Enzyme Use

10 Fermentation Technology

11 Biotechnology in Medicine

12 Environmental Biotechnology

13 Agricultural Biotechnology

14 Future of Food Production

15 Sustainable Agriculture

16 Resource Conservation

17 Economic Considerations

18 Environmental Impact Assessment

19 Ethical Issues in Biotechnology

20 Course Review and Integration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BrainyLemons?

BrainyLemons is an online learning platform that provides comprehensive GCSE and iGCSE courses designed for home study. We offer expert-created content, virtual tutoring support, and flexible learning schedules to help students achieve their academic goals from anywhere in the world.

How do I know if home learning is right for me?

Home learning with BrainyLemons is perfect if you're:

Self-motivated and disciplined
Prefer flexible scheduling
Need to work around other commitments
Want personalised pacing

Our 30-minute lesson format makes it easy to fit studying into your daily routine, whether you're homeschooled, supplementing traditional education, or retaking subjects.

What age groups do you cater to?

Our courses are designed for students typically aged 14-18 taking GCSEs and iGCSEs. However, we welcome adult learners and mature students who want to gain qualifications or improve their knowledge in specific subjects.

Which exam boards do you cover?

We offer courses aligned with major exam boards including:

AQA
Cambridge
Pearson Edexcel

Each course clearly states which exam board it follows, so you can choose the right one for your needs.

How many subjects can I study at once?

You can enroll in as many subjects as you feel comfortable managing. Most students take 5-9 subjects, but this depends on your goals, available study time, and other commitments. We recommend starting with 3-4 subjects if you're new to home learning.

How long does each course take to complete?

Course duration varies by subject, typically ranging from 100-200 hours of study time. With our flexible approach, you can:

Intensive study: Complete in 6 months (4-5 hours per week)
Standard pace: Complete in 12 months (2-3 hours per week)
Extended study: Spread over 18-24 months for lighter commitment

Are your courses up to date with the latest syllabus?

Yes! All our courses are regularly updated to reflect the most current exam board specifications. We clearly indicate which exam year each course is designed for (e.g., 2026 specifications).

What does a typical lesson look like?

Each lesson is designed to take approximately 30 minutes and includes:

Clear learning objectives
Engaging video content or interactive materials
Written explanations and examples
Practice questions
Knowledge check quizzes
Progress tracking

Can I learn at my own pace?

Absolutely! One of our key advantages is flexible, self-paced learning. You can study when it suits you, repeat lessons as needed, and accelerate through topics you find easier. Our bespoke study timetable feature helps you plan your learning journey.

What if I get stuck on a topic?

We provide multiple support options:

24/7 AI advisors for instant help
Virtual tutors specializing in each subject
Detailed explanations and worked examples
Interactive quizzes to test understanding
Progress reports highlighting areas needing attention

Do you provide practice papers and exam preparation?

Yes! Each course includes extensive revision materials, practice questions, and exam-style assessments. Our progress tracking system identifies your strengths and areas for improvement, helping you focus your revision effectively.

What equipment do I need?

You only need:

A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access
A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
Basic writing materials for note-taking
Optional: Printer for worksheets and practice papers

Can I access courses offline?

While our platform is primarily online to ensure you have the latest content and features, you can download certain materials like worksheets and revision guides for offline study.

Do you arrange exams for students?

No, you are responsible for booking and paying for your own exams. Exam fees are not included in course subscriptions. However, we provide guidance on finding local exam centres and understanding the booking process.

How do I find an exam centre?

We recommend:

Contacting local schools, colleges, or sixth forms
Searching online exam centre directories
Contacting the exam board directly
Considering private exam centres

We provide a helpful guide on our website with step-by-step instructions for finding and booking exam centres.

When should I book my exams?

Most exam boards require registration 4-6 months before the exam date. We recommend researching exam centres and booking as early as possible, especially for less common subjects or if you live in a remote area.

What grades do students typically achieve?

Our students have a 97% success rate, with many achieving grades 7-9 (A*-A equivalent). Success depends on consistent study, engagement with materials, and effective exam preparation.

How much do courses cost?

Individual courses start from £49.99-£50 per subject. We also offer bundle discounts for multiple subjects and payment plan options to make learning more affordable.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! We provide:

Multi-subject bundle discounts
Early bird pricing for advance bookings
Price match promise against competitors
Special offers for newsletter subscribers
Family discounts for siblings

What's included in the course fee?

Your course fee includes:

24 months access to all course materials
260+ lessons per subject (varies by course)
Virtual tutor support
AI advisor access (24/7)
Progress tracking and reporting
Interactive quizzes and assessments
Revision materials and practice papers

What's NOT included?

Course fees do not include:

Exam registration fees
Exam centre costs
Physical textbooks (though digital resources are provided)
Individual face-to-face tutoring

What support do parents receive?

Parents get:

Detailed progress reports showing strengths and areas needing support
Study guide resources to monitor upcoming lessons
Complete visibility of their child's learning journey
Safety assurance with our fully moderated, child-friendly platform
Flexible scheduling options to fit family routines

How do you ensure student safety online?

We maintain a fully moderated, child-friendly platform with:

Secure login systems
Monitored virtual tutor interactions
Age-appropriate content
Privacy protection measures
Clear reporting mechanisms for any concerns

What if I'm not satisfied with my course?

We're confident in our course quality, but if you're not satisfied within the first 14 days, we offer a full refund. After this period, we'll work with you to address any specific concerns and ensure you get the most from your learning experience.

How does online learning compare to classroom teaching?

Online learning with BrainyLemons offers:

Flexibility: Study when and where it suits you
Personalisation: Learn at your own pace
Accessibility: 24/7 access to materials and support
Focused attention: No classroom distractions
Comprehensive resources: Everything you need in one place

However, it requires more self-discipline and motivation than traditional classroom learning.

Will universities and employers accept my qualifications?

Yes! GCSEs and iGCSEs obtained through independent study are identical to those achieved in traditional schools. What matters is your exam results, not how you prepared for them. Our courses prepare you for the same official exams as school students.

How do I stay motivated when studying alone?

We help maintain motivation through:

Clear progress tracking and celebration of achievements
Interactive quizzes and games that make learning fun
Regular check-ins with virtual tutors
Flexible scheduling that prevents burnout
Community features to connect with other learners

How can I contact support?

Email: support@brainylemons.com
Live Chat: Available on our website during business hours
Help Centre: Comprehensive guides and tutorials
Community Forum: Connect with other students and get peer support

What makes BrainyLemons different from other online learning platforms?

Expert-created content aligned with official exam specifications
30-minute lesson format perfect for busy schedules
24/7 AI support plus specialised virtual tutors
97% success rate with proven results
Comprehensive progress tracking for students and parents
Affordable pricing with flexible payment options
12 months access giving you plenty of time to complete courses

Got questions? Contact us!

Course fee: £49

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Course Content

Areas of Study in iGCSE Biology From 2019

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