IB past paper analysis

Biology SL
May 2026 · Paper 2 · TZ1

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  • 7questions
  • 64marks
  • 24question parts
  • 17micro-topics

What this paper tests

Mark distribution

  • Form and function33%
  • Continuity and change30%
  • Experimental and data skills19%
  • Interaction and interdependence13%
  • Unity and diversity6%

Hardest areas (by marks)

  1. 1.The mechanism of natural selection7 marks
  2. 2.Alveoli and the mammalian lung7 marks

Question types

explain / justify: 29%outline: 17%find / solve: 8%identify: 8%4%
  • explain / justify29%
  • outline17%
  • find / solve8%
  • identify8%

4% 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 SL 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 33% (typical 24%), Continuity and change 30% (typical 25%), Experimental and data skills 19% (typical 13%).

How do I practise this paper without the paper?

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