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NotesESSTopic 3.1
Unit 3 · Biodiversity and Conservation · Topic 3.1

IB ESS — Biodiversity

Topic 3.1 defines biodiversity at the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels and explains why it matters for ecosystem stability and human well-being. Students learn about biodiversity hotspots, the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem services, and methods for measuring species diversity.

3.1 FlashcardsExam technique guidePractice questions

Key concepts in Biodiversity

📝 Exam Summary: Biodiversity & Conservation

Key Idea: Biodiversity keeps ecosystems healthy. Measuring it helps us make smart conservation choices.

🌍 Three levels of biodiversity


💪 Biodiversity = Resilience


📊 Measuring biodiversity

D = \frac{N(N-1)}{\sum n(n-1)}
Simpson's Reciprocal Index – Higher D = more diverse

✅ Exam Checklist

Link: **biodiversity → resilience → ecosystem services → conservation**. Use examples!

What you'll learn in Topic 3.1

  • 3.1.1 Biodiversity and resilience
  • 3.1.2 Protecting Biodiversity
  • 3.1.3 Measuring biodiversity

Exam relevance

ESS is assessed through Paper 1 (case study) and Paper 2 (short answer & structured questions). Concepts from this topic may appear in either paper, often combined with data analysis or real-world examples.

Suggested study order: Read the notes for each sub-topic below → test yourself with flashcards → attempt practice questions → review exam technique.

Study resources — 3.1 Biodiversity

3.1.1

Biodiversity and resilience

NotesFlashcards
3.1.2

Protecting Biodiversity

NotesFlashcards
3.1.3

Measuring biodiversity

NotesFlashcards

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Topic 3.1 Biodiversity forms a core part of Unit 3: Biodiversity and Conservation in IB ESS. Mastering these concepts will strengthen your understanding of connected topics across the syllabus and prepare you for exam questions that require analysis, evaluation, and real-world application.

Frequently asked questions

What does Topic 3.1 Biodiversity cover in IB ESS?
Topic 3.1 covers biodiversity as part of the IB ESS syllabus. Students learn key concepts, definitions, and real-world examples that are tested in Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams.
How should I revise Biodiversity for IB ESS exams?
Start by reading the micro-topic notes to understand each concept, then use flashcards to memorise key terms. Practise exam-style questions to apply your knowledge under timed conditions and review the marking criteria.
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