IB past paper analysis

Biology HL
May 2026 · Paper 2 · TZ1

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  • 10questions
  • 93marks
  • 35question parts
  • 29micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Form and function32%
  • Continuity and change29%
  • Interaction and interdependence16%
  • Unity and diversity15%
  • Experimental and data skills8%

Hardest areas (by marks)

  1. 1.Bohr shift8 marks
  2. 2.Adaptations to life in hot deserts and tropical rainforest7 marks
  3. 3.Generation of a proton gradient by flow of electrons along the electron transport chain7 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 32% (typical 23%), Continuity and change 29% (typical 28%), Interaction and interdependence 16% (typical 26%).

How do I practise this paper without the paper?

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