IB past paper analysis

Biology HL
May 2026 · Paper 2 · TZ1

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  • 10questions
  • 93marks
  • 35question parts
  • 27micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Form and function31%
  • Continuity and change29%
  • Interaction and interdependence22%
  • Unity and diversity11%
  • Experimental and data skills8%

Hardest areas (by marks)

  1. 1.Protein functions8 marks
  2. 2.Animal adaptations to the environment7 marks
  3. 3.Why cells respire and how ATP is generated7 marks

Question types

explain / justify: 31%write down / state: 23%outline: 14%identify: 9%0%
  • explain / justify31%
  • write down / state23%
  • outline14%
  • identify9%

0% of parts are show / prove.

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Questions in this paper

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Where to go next

Good to know

Can I download Biology HL May 2026 TZ1 Paper 2 here?

No. The paper and its mark scheme belong to the IB and are not reproduced. This page gives the structure of every question (marks, command term, micro-topic, the skill tested), the exam analysis, and practice questions we wrote to test the same skills. Subscribers can also open our summary of how each part's marks are awarded.

Which topics dominate May 2026 TZ1 Paper 2?

Form and function 31% (typical 23%), Continuity and change 29% (typical 28%), Interaction and interdependence 22% (typical 26%).

How do I practise this paper without the paper?

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