← Combined Science syllabus

SingaporeCombined Science

Biology: Cells and Human Physiology

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the parts of animal and plant cells, what do they do, and how are cells organised into organisms?

Identify the structures of animal and plant cells and their functions, compare the two cell types, and describe the organisation of cells into tissues, organs and systems
A focused answer to the O-Level Combined Science outcome on cells. The parts of animal and plant cells and their functions, the differences between them, and the levels of organisation from cell to organism.
9 min answer →

How do substances move into and out of cells by diffusion, osmosis and active transport?

Describe and compare diffusion, osmosis and active transport, and explain their importance in living organisms
A focused answer to the O-Level Combined Science outcome on movement of substances. Diffusion down a concentration gradient, osmosis of water across a partially permeable membrane, active transport against the gradient, and their importance.
9 min answer →

How do cells release energy from glucose, and how does breathing supply the oxygen they need?

Compare aerobic and anaerobic respiration, describe the role of breathing and gas exchange in the lungs, and relate respiration to energy release
A focused answer to the O-Level Combined Science outcome on respiration. Aerobic and anaerobic respiration and their equations, energy release, breathing and gas exchange in the lungs, and the adaptations of the alveoli.
9 min answer →

How does the digestive system break down food into small molecules the body can absorb and use?

Describe the human digestive system, the role of digestive enzymes in breaking down food, and the absorption of digested food in the small intestine
A focused answer to the O-Level Combined Science outcome on digestion. The parts of the alimentary canal, physical and chemical digestion, the action of carbohydrase, protease and lipase, and absorption in the small intestine.
9 min answer →

How does the heart and blood system carry oxygen, food and wastes around the body?

Describe the human circulatory system including the structure of the heart, the blood vessels and the components of blood and their functions
A focused answer to the O-Level Combined Science outcome on human transport. The double circulation and the heart, the structure and function of arteries, veins and capillaries, and the components of blood.
9 min answer →