SACE Biology past exams 2020–2025, by year and topic

The rest of the syllabus

Question-level mapping for these areas is still being verified. Every official paper covering them is in the year table above.

• Topic 1: DNA and proteins — DNA structure, base pairing and semi-conservative replication · From gene to polypeptide: transcription, translation and the genetic code · Protein structure levels, enzyme specificity and factors affecting enzyme activity · Gene expression, epigenetics and the effects of mutations · PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA profiling and gene technologies (CRISPR, transgenic organisms)
• Topic 2: Cells as the basis of life — Fluid mosaic membrane, prokaryotes vs eukaryotes and organelle structure and function · Photosynthesis, aerobic respiration, fermentation and ATP · Diffusion, osmosis, active transport, SA:V ratio and transport proteins · Metabolic pathways, internal membranes and chemicals that interfere with metabolism · Binary fission, mitosis, meiosis, the cell cycle and its regulation, and cell culture
• Topic 3: Homeostasis — Tolerance limits, homeostasis and the stimulus-response negative feedback model · Neurons, nerve pathways, synapses, neurotransmitters and reflex arcs · Hormones: insulin and glucagon, thyroxine and TSH, ADH and adrenaline · Thermoregulation, osmoregulation, blood glucose and blood CO2 control by nervous and endocrine systems
• Topic 4: Evolution — Origin of cells, endosymbiosis and comparative genomics as evidence for evolution · Defining species and pre-zygotic and post-zygotic isolating mechanisms · Mutation, gene pools, natural selection, gene flow and genetic drift · Allopatric speciation, adaptive radiation, convergent evolution, succession and extinction risk
• Science Inquiry Skills — Deconstructing problems: hypotheses, variables, controls and ethical considerations · Analysing data, errors, reliability, accuracy, validity and justified conclusions