The SPM examination is an essential milestone for students in Malaysia as it marks the end of their secondary education. It certifies their academic achievements and can open doors to higher education and career opportunities. The examination measures their knowledge and skills in subjects based on the Standard Curriculum for Secondary Schools (KSSM) introduced in 2017.
Among the subjects tested is Biology, which is a fascinating field that explores the intricacies of life. SPM Biology delves into the functioning of cells and organisms and emphasises the interconnectedness of all living things. This field holds great promise for the future and can improve the quality of life for human beings in countless ways.
If you have chosen Biology as an elective in the science stream, keep in mind that SPM biology encompasses a vast range of topics, starting with overall principles and occasionally delving into chemistry and physics. Your preferences may fluctuate within this spectrum, suggesting that certain areas may be more straightforward to grasp than others.
In this article, we will focus on the KSSM biology syllabus for SPM and briefly go through the exam format, marking scheme, best resources and tips to master this subject. To further pique your interest, we've included career prospects for those interested in pursuing biology after SPM.
KSSM Biology Curriculum
The current SPM Biology curriculum is based on the Secondary School Standard Curriculum (Kurikulum Standard Sekolah Menengah - KSSM), which was gradually introduced in 2017. The first batch of students who took the SPM exam following this updated syllabus did so in 2021.
KSSM Biology aims to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience that involves understanding biological concepts, developing skills strategies, and applying biology with a scientific attitude and values. Additionally, it aims to help students understand the impact of scientific and technological advancements on society, enabling them to communicate and make decisions based on scientific evidence.
The curriculum has six pillars that support each other and encourage critical, creative, and innovative thinking. These pillars include Communication, Spirituality, Attitude and Values, Humanity, Self-Development Skills, Physical and Aesthetic Development, and Science and Technology. Moreover, the curriculum aims to cultivate students as lifelong learners, preparing them for further education and careers in the STEM field.
KSSM Biology Syllabus
KSSM Biology syllabus focuses on critical thinking learning involving knowledge, skills, and values. Through an inquiry-based approach, students acquire these domains and become scientifically thinking individuals. The inquiry approach encompasses student-centred learning, contextual learning, project-based learning, mastery learning, and related strategies and methods.
Furthermore, the syllabus aims to prepare students to face the challenges of the 21st century and the rapidly developing technological era. Students who go through this curriculum will become a source of human resources in science and technology, contributing to the country's development.
Here's a breakdown of the chapters in both Form 4 and Form 5 Biology:
Form 4
FUNDAMENTALS OF BIOLOGY
1. Introduction to Biology and Laboratory Rules
2. Cell Biology and Organisation
3. Movement of Substances across a Plasma Membrane
4. Chemical Compositions in a Cell
5. Metabolism and Enzymes
6. Cell Division
7. Cellular Respiration
PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMANS & ANIMALS
8. Respiratory Systems in Humans and Animals
9. Nutrition and the Human Digestive System
10. Transport in Humans and Animals
11. Immunity in Humans
12. Coordination and Response in Humans
13. Homeostasis and the Human Urinary System
14. Support and Movement in Humans and Animals
15. Sexual Reproduction, Development and Growth in Humans and Animals
Form 5
PHYSIOLOGY OF FLOWERING PLANTS
1. Organisation of Plant Tissues and Growth
2. Leaf Structure and Function
3. Nutrition in Plants
4. Transport in Plants
5. Response in Plants
6. Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants
7. Adaptations of Plants in Different Habitats
ECOSYSTEM AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
8. Biodiversity
9. Ecosystem
10. Environmental Sustainability
INHERITANCE AND GENETIC TECHNOLOGY
11. Inheritance
12. Variation
13. Genetic Technology
Getting to Know the Exam Format and Marking Scheme
For those planning to sit for the SPM Biology exam in 2023, it is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the exam format and marking scheme. This knowledge is vital in preparing and achieving excellent results in the exam. There are three papers in total for SPM Biology.
The first paper has 40 questions, all of which are multiple-choice. The second paper has three sections: A, B, and C. Section A has eight structured questions that require answers to all of them. Section B has two essay questions; you can choose to answer one. Section C has one essay question that you must answer. Paper 3 is a practical test. If you want to know more details, check out the Malaysian Examination Board website.
To gain a deeper understanding of the marking criteria for the biology paper, it is highly advisable to examine the grading system for all SPM subjects thoroughly:
Score / Grade / Level
90 – 100 : A + : Cemerlang Tertinggi
80 – 89 : A : Cemerlang Tinggi
70 – 79 : A – : Cemerlang
65 – 69 : B + : Kepujian Tertinggi
60 – 64 : B : Kepujian Tinggi
55 – 59 : C + : Kepujian Atas
50 – 54 : C : Kepujian
45 – 49 : D : Lulus Atas
>40 – 44: E: Lulus
0 – 39: G: Gagal
TH : TH : Tidak Hadir
This will provide a broader context and enable a more accurate assessment of the requirements for achieving a good score. All three papers' marks combined will give you a total score 155. To calculate your marks to determine what grade you will get, calculate your marks as shown below:
(Paper 1 + Paper 2 + Paper 3) / 150 X 100%
Resources to Master SPM Biology
Finding the top SPM biology resources can be overwhelming, given the abundance of books and websites on the subject. These resources must be both current and thorough, as well as captivating. Biology is a captivating subject, after all!
Keeping this in mind, we have carefully selected the finest biology resources to help you understand the subject and ace the exam. Our compilation encompasses a range of physical books, YouTube channels dedicated to educating you on the format and subject matter, and where to find trial and past year SPM biology papers. Check out Tools to Help You Study for SPM Biology to know more.
We believe these resources will both educate and captivate you. We assure you that you won't find outdated, jargon-filled textbooks on our list!
How to Score A+ in SPM Biology?
There are numerous tips available to assist you in achieving a high score in SPM biology. These strategies provide valuable guidance throughout your studies. Each student possesses a distinct approach to comprehending biology, meaning certain tips may be practical for one student but not for another.
There is no definitive method of studying any subject. Engage in whichever techniques feel most beneficial to you. The ultimate objective is to attain an A+ in SPM biology. To learn more, check out Tips to Score in SPM Biology 2023!
Prospective Careers in the Field of Biology
Do you have an interest in biology? Are you wondering about the career prospects in this field if you decide to pursue tertiary education? With the vast knowledge acquired in biology degrees, it is no surprise that the career opportunities available for biology graduates are diverse. The possibilities for careers with a biology degree encompass a broad spectrum, some of which include:
Marine Biologist
A marine biologist is responsible for examining and investigating the ecosystems, biology, and interdependencies between animals and plants in watery environments. Typically, marine biologists who possess undergraduate degrees engage in field research and laboratory work. Their tasks commonly include observing aquatic life, tagging and releasing marine creatures, gathering water or aquatic plant samples, scrutinising data, and contributing to lab reports.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic scientists have expertise in examining evidence to identify DNA, organic substances, and various biological indicators, making them crucial contributors to criminal inquiries. They can specialise in one of two main categories in this field: crime scene investigation or data analysis. Both branches necessitate proficiency in laboratory procedures and the ability to write comprehensive reports.
Botanist
Botanists serve as adventurers of the plant world, examining the effects of pollution, acid rain, and soil degradation on plants. Their findings contribute to developing measures to safeguard plant life and the environment. Additionally, botanists have the ability to unearth novel plant species, analyse their different components, and potentially uncover diverse health advantages associated with these plants.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists, often referred to as environmental engineers, apply the concepts of biology, chemistry, and engineering to identify and design remedies for prevalent environmental challenges. These include recycling, public health, air pollution regulation, waste management, and water treatment.
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