The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) Form 1 Biology syllabus follows the Competency-Based

Curriculum (CBC) under the Kenya Secondary School Curriculum (KICD) guidelines. The topics covered
include:

FORM 1 BIOLOGY TOPICS (KNEC/KICD)

1. Introduction to Biology

Meaning and importance of Biology

Form 1 Biology: Meaning and Importance of Biology (Summary)

Meaning of Biology

Biology is the scientific study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their
environment. The word "Biology" comes from two Greek words:

"Bios" – meaning life

"Logos" – meaning study

Branches of Biology

1. Botany – Study of plants

2. Zoology – Study of animals

3. Microbiology – Study of microorganisms

Importance of Biology

Biology is essential in many aspects of life, including:

1. Health and Medicine

Helps in understanding diseases and developing treatments (e.g., vaccines, antibiotics).

Provides knowledge on nutrition and healthy living.

Helps in improving crop production and animal breeding.

Aids in pest control and disease prevention in plants and animals.

3. Environment and Conservation

Helps in protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.

Aids in understanding climate change and its effects.

4. Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Used in developing improved crop varieties (e.g., GMO crops).

Helps in medical advancements such as gene therapy.

5. Industry

Used in food production (e.g., fermentation in bread and yogurt making).

Helps in the production of medicines and biofuels.

6. Career Opportunities

Leads to careers such as doctors, nurses, biologists, environmentalists, and agriculturalists.

Biology is essential for understanding life processes and solving real-world problems in health,
environment, and industry.

Branches of Biology: (Summary)

Biology is divided into different branches to help scientists study specific aspects of living organisms. The
main branches include:
1. Botany

The study of plants, including their structure, growth, reproduction, and classification.

Importance: Helps in agriculture, forestry, and medicine.

2. Zoology

The study of animals, including their anatomy, behavior, and classification.

Importance: Helps in wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, and understanding animal behavior.

3. Microbiology

The study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

Importance: Helps in disease control, food production (e.g., yogurt, cheese), and biotechnology.

4. Genetics

The study of heredity and variation in living organisms.

Importance: Helps in breeding better crops, treating genetic disorders, and DNA research.

5. Ecology

The study of relationships between living organisms and their environment.

Importance: Helps in environmental conservation and management of natural resources.

6. Physiology

The study of how the body functions in plants and animals.

Importance: Helps in medicine, nutrition, and understanding how the body reacts to different
conditions.

7. Anatomy
The study of the structure and internal organs of living things.

Importance: Essential in medicine, surgery, and understanding body systems.

8. Biochemistry

The study of chemical processes within living organisms.

Importance: Helps in drug development, nutrition, and metabolism studies.

9. Biotechnology

The use of living organisms in technology to develop useful products.

Importance: Used in genetic engineering, food production, and medicine.

These branches help scientists specialize in different areas of Biology, making it easier to study and apply
biological knowledge in real-life situations.

Characteristics of living organisms: (Summary)

All living organisms share certain characteristics that distinguish them from non-living things. These
characteristics include:

1. Nutrition

The process of obtaining and using food for energy and growth.

Plants make their own food (photosynthesis), while animals consume other organisms.

2. Respiration

The process of breaking down food to release energy.

Can be aerobic (with oxygen) or anaerobic (without oxygen).

3. Excretion
The removal of waste products produced by body processes.

Examples: Carbon dioxide (breathing), sweat, and urine.

4. Growth and Development

Increase in size and complexity over time.

Growth occurs through cell division and enlargement.

5. Movement

The ability to change position or location.

Animals move using muscles, while plants show movement by growing towards light or water.

6. Reproduction

The process of producing new individuals of the same species.

Can be sexual (involving two parents) or asexual (one parent).

7. Irritability (Response to Stimuli)

The ability to detect and respond to changes in the environment.

Examples: Plants bending toward light, animals reacting to danger.

8. Adaptation

Special features that help organisms survive in their environment.

Examples: Camouflage in animals, thick leaves in desert plants.

9. Homeostasis

The ability to maintain a stable internal environment.

These characteristics help organisms survive, grow, and reproduce, making life possible.

The scientific method: (Summary)

The scientific method is a systematic way of solving problems and gaining knowledge through
observation and experimentation. It involves the following steps:

1. Identification of a Problem

A scientist notices something unusual and asks a question.

Example: "Why do some plants grow faster than others?"

2. Making Observations

Gathering information using the senses or scientific instruments.

Example: Observing plant growth in different conditions.

3. Formulating a Hypothesis

A hypothesis is an educated guess or possible explanation based on observations.

Example: "Plants grow faster with more sunlight."

4. Experimentation

A controlled experiment is set up to test the hypothesis.

It includes:

Independent variable: The factor changed (e.g., amount of sunlight).

Dependent variable: The factor measured (e.g., plant height).

Control variables: Factors kept constant (e.g., type of soil, amount of water).
5. Collecting and Analyzing Data

Recording results in tables, graphs, or charts for better interpretation.

Example: Measuring plant growth every day.

6. Drawing Conclusions

Based on the results, the scientist determines whether the hypothesis was correct or incorrect.

Example: "Plants with more sunlight grew taller than those with less sunlight."

7. Reporting and Publishing Results

Scientists share findings through reports, journals, or presentations to help others learn and verify
results.

The scientific method ensures that biological studies are based on evidence, making discoveries more
reliable and useful.

Sample KCSE Questions

Here are 10 sampled KCSE KNEC Biology questions and answers based on the subtopics you’ve
mentioned:

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1. Meaning and Importance of Biology

Question 1:

Define Biology.

Answer:

Biology is the scientific study of living organisms and their interactions with each other and their
environment.
Question 2:

State two importance of studying Biology.

Answer:

Helps in understanding health and diseases, leading to better treatment options.

Helps in agricultural improvement, leading to better crop yields and food security.

Question 3:

List any three branches of Biology.

Answer:

Botany

Zoology

Microbiology

Question 4:

Explain one way in which the study of Biology is important in medicine.

Answer:

Biology helps in understanding diseases and developing treatments such as vaccines and antibiotics,
improving healthcare.
Question 5:

How does the study of Biology contribute to environmental conservation?

Answer:

Biology helps in understanding ecosystems and biodiversity, leading to better conservation practices.

Question 6:

Give an example of how Biotechnology, a branch of Biology, is applied in agriculture.

Answer:

Biotechnology is used to develop genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests and diseases,
improving food production.

Question 7:

State the role of Botany in human life.

Answer:

Botany helps in understanding plant life, which is crucial for agriculture, medicine, and environmental
conservation.

Question 8:

Why is Zoology important in wildlife conservation?

Answer:

Zoology helps in understanding animal behavior, habitats, and needs, which are important in developing
conservation strategies for endangered species.

Question 9:

Describe one way in which knowledge of Biology is applied in food production.

Answer:
Biology helps in understanding fermentation processes used in the production of food products like
bread, yogurt, and cheese.

Question 10:

What is the significance of the study of Microbiology in healthcare?

Answer:

Microbiology helps in identifying pathogens and understanding diseases caused by microorganisms,

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2. Branches of Biology

Question 1:

Explain the main focus of Genetics.

Answer:

Genetics is the study of heredity and how traits are passed from one generation to the next.

Question 2:

Which branch of Biology studies animal behavior?

Answer:

Zoology.

Question 3:

Name the branch of Biology that deals with microorganisms.

Microbiology.

Question 4:

What is the study of plants called?

Answer:

Botany.

Question 5:

What does Ecology study?

Answer:

Ecology studies the relationships between living organisms and their environment.

Question 6:

Identify the branch of Biology that focuses on body functions in living organisms.

Answer:

Physiology.

Question 7:

Which branch of Biology is concerned with the chemical processes in living organisms?

Answer:

Biochemistry.

Question 8:

How does Biotechnology differ from other branches of Biology?

Biotechnology uses biological systems and organisms to develop or make products, often in industries
such as agriculture and medicine.

Question 9:

In which branch of Biology would you study plant diseases?

Answer:

Botany, specifically plant pathology.

Question 10:

What is the role of Anatomy in medicine?

Answer:

Anatomy studies the structure of living organisms, which is essential for understanding disease
diagnosis, surgery, and medical treatment.

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3. Characteristics of Living Organisms

Question 1:

State two characteristics of living organisms.

Answer:

Nutrition
Growth and Development

Question 2:

What is meant by excretion in living organisms?

Answer:

Excretion is the process of removing waste products produced by metabolism in the body.

Question 3:

Give one example of how living organisms respond to stimuli.

Answer:

Plants bend toward light (phototropism), responding to light as a stimulus.

Question 4:

Why is growth an important characteristic of living organisms?

Answer:

Growth allows organisms to develop and mature, ensuring their survival and ability to reproduce.

Question 5:

Define respiration in living organisms.

Answer:

Respiration is the process by which living organisms break down food to release energy for growth,
movement, and other activities.

Question 6:

Explain reproduction and its importance in living organisms.

Reproduction is the process of producing offspring, ensuring the continuation of a species.

Question 7:

What does homeostasis refer to in living organisms?

Answer:

Homeostasis refers to the ability of living organisms to maintain a stable internal environment despite
external changes.

Question 8:

Give an example of movement in plants.

Answer:

Plants move towards light, a process known as phototropism.

Question 9:

What is meant by adaptation in living organisms?

Answer:

Adaptation refers to the special features that allow organisms to survive and thrive in their
environment.

Question 10:

How do living organisms maintain nutrition?

Answer:

Living organisms obtain nutrients through processes like photosynthesis (plants) or consumption
(animals), which they use for energy, growth, and repair.
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4. The Scientific Method

Question 1:

What is the first step in the scientific method?

Answer:

The first step is identifying a problem or question.

Question 2:

What is a hypothesis?

Answer:

A hypothesis is an educated guess or a proposed explanation based on observations.

Question 3:

Name one tool used in data collection during an experiment.

Answer:

A thermometer can be used to collect temperature data.

Question 4:

Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?

Answer:

Controlling variables ensures that the results are due to the factor being tested and not other factors.

Question 5:
What is the role of experimentation in the scientific method?

Answer:

Experimentation tests the hypothesis by observing the effect of variables under controlled conditions.

Question 6:

Explain the difference between independent and dependent variables.

Answer:

The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated in an experiment, while the dependent
variable is the factor that is measured.

Question 7:

What is the purpose of drawing conclusions after an experiment?

Answer:

Drawing conclusions helps determine whether the hypothesis is supported or refuted by the
experimental data.

Question 8:

Why is data analysis crucial in the scientific method?

Answer:

Data analysis helps in interpreting the results accurately and making informed conclusions based on
evidence.

Question 9:

What is the last step in the scientific method?

Answer:

The last step is reporting and publishing the results for others to verify and use.
Question 10:

Why is it important to repeat experiments?

Answer:

Repeating experiments ensures reliability and accuracy of the results and helps eliminate errors.

These questions cover the core concepts of each subtopic and will help students prepare effectively for
the KCSE exams.

2. Classification I

Meaning and importance of classification

Major units of classification

General classification of living organisms

3. The Cell

Structure and functions of cell organelles

Differences between plant and animal cells

Cell specialization, tissues, and organs

4. Cell Physiology

Diffusion, osmosis, and active transport

Importance of diffusion and osmosis in living organisms

Plasmolysis and turgor pressure

Modes of nutrition

Photosynthesis (conditions, process, and importance)

Mineral nutrition in plants

Heterotrophic nutrition (holozoic, saprophytic, parasitic)

6. Classification II (Kingdoms and Phyla)

Kingdoms: Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia

Major phyla of plants and animals

7. Nutrition in Animals

Feeding mechanisms in animals

Dentition in herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores

8. Transport in Plants and Animals

Importance of transport in living organisms

Structure and function of xylem and phloem

Transpiration and factors affecting it

These topics form the foundation for Form 2–4 Biology.

FORM 2 BIOLOGY TOPICS (KNEC/KICD)

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) Form 2 Biology syllabus builds on Form 1 concepts,
focusing on body systems, reproduction, and ecology. Below are the main topics and subtopics covered:
1. Transport in Plants and Animals

Structure and functions of the transport system in plants

Xylem and phloem

Transpiration and factors affecting it

Translocation

Transport in animals

Blood composition and functions

The heart and circulation (open vs. closed circulation)

The lymphatic system

2. Gaseous Exchange

Gaseous exchange in plants

Gaseous exchange in animals

Structure and functions of respiratory organs

Adaptations of respiratory surfaces

Mechanisms of breathing in humans

Comparison of gaseous exchange in fish, amphibians, and humans.

3. Respiration

Aerobic and anaerobic respiration

Energy production and ATP

Factors affecting respiration

Experiments on respiration
4. Excretion and Homeostasis

Excretion in plants (gaseous and nitrogenous waste removal)

Excretion in animals

Structure and function of the kidney, skin, and liver

Formation of urine

Osmoregulation and thermoregulation

Homeostasis and negative feedback mechanism

5. Coordination in Plants and Animals

Tropisms and nastic movements in plants

The human nervous system

Central and peripheral nervous systems

Reflex action and voluntary action

The endocrine system

Endocrine glands and hormones

Effects of hormone imbalance

6. Support and Movement in Plants and Animals

Types of skeletal systems (hydrostatic, exoskeleton, and endoskeleton)

Functions of the skeleton

Types of joints and movement

Adaptations of bones and muscles for movement

7. Reproduction in Plants and Animals

Types of reproduction (asexual and sexual)

Pollination and fertilization

Seed formation, dispersal, and germination

The menstrual cycle and pregnancy

These topics provide the foundation for more complex biological concepts in Forms 3 and 4.

FORM 3 BIOLOGY TOPICS (KNEC/KICD)

The Form 3 Biology syllabus builds on the knowledge gained in Forms 1 and 2, focusing on advanced
human systems, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Below are the main topics and subtopics covered:

1. Classification II (Further Classification of Organisms)

Kingdoms and their characteristics

Phylum Chordata (focus on classes of vertebrates)

Characteristics and adaptations of vertebrates

2. Ecology

Components of an ecosystem

Energy flow in an ecosystem (food chains, food webs, and pyramids)

Population estimation methods (quadrats, mark-release-recapture)

Ecological succession

Adaptations of organisms to different environments

Human impact on the environment

3. Growth and Development

Phases of growth in plants and animals

Primary and secondary growth in plants

Growth curves

Factors affecting growth

4. Reproduction in Animals

Gametogenesis (spermatogenesis and oogenesis)

Fertilization and development of the embryo

The menstrual cycle

Placenta structure and function

Birth process and care of the young

5. Genetics

Structure of chromosomes and genes

DNA and RNA structure and function

Types of variation (continuous and discontinuous)

Inheritance of traits (Mendelian genetics)

Monohybrid and dihybrid crosses

Sex determination

Genetic disorders (sickle cell anemia, hemophilia)

6. Evolution

Theories of evolution (Darwinism, Lamarckism)

Evidence for evolution (fossils, homologous structures)

7. The Cell and Cell Physiology (Revision & Advanced Concepts)

Ultrastructure of the cell (electron microscopy)

Enzymes and enzyme activity

Factors affecting enzyme activity

DNA replication and protein synthesis

These topics provide a strong foundation for Form 4, where students study advanced genetics,
biotechnology, and human health.

FORM 4 BIOLOGY TOPICS (KNEC/KICD)

The Form 4 Biology syllabus focuses on advanced topics in genetics, evolution, biotechnology, and human
health. Below are the main topics and subtopics covered:

1. Respiration (Advanced Concepts)

Aerobic and anaerobic respiration (detailed processes)

Role of mitochondria in respiration

Respiratory Quotient (RQ)

Factors affecting respiration

2. Excretion and Homeostasis (Advanced Concepts)

Detailed functions of the kidney, liver, and skin

Disorders of the excretory system (kidney failure, diabetes)

Role of the hypothalamus in temperature regulation

3. Nervous Coordination and Hormonal Control

The structure and function of the human brain

Reflex action and conditioned reflexes

Neurones and synapses

Endocrine system disorders (diabetes, goitre)

Role of plant hormones in growth and development

4. Support and Movement (Advanced Concepts)

Types of muscle tissues

Bone disorders and their effects (rickets, arthritis)

Joint types and movements

5. Reproduction and Growth in Plants and Animals (Advanced Concepts)

Metamorphosis in insects and amphibians

Parthenogenesis and asexual reproduction in animals

Factors affecting seed germination and dormancy

6. Genetics and Evolution (Advanced Concepts)

Mutations and chromosomal abnormalities

Genetic engineering and biotechnology

Practical applications of genetics (GMOs, cloning, DNA fingerprinting)

Evolutionary relationships among organisms

7. Biotechnology

Tissue culture and cloning

Recombinant DNA technology

Applications of biotechnology in medicine and agriculture

8. Ecology (Advanced Concepts)

Conservation and management of the environment

Pollution and its effects

Sustainable use of natural resources

Effects of human activities on ecosystems

9. Human Health and Disease

Causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of common diseases:

Bacterial infections (tuberculosis, cholera)

Viral infections (HIV/AIDS, influenza)

Parasitic diseases (malaria, schistosomiasis)

Immunity and vaccines

Drug abuse and its effects on health

These Form 4 topics prepare students for their KCSE Biology exams and real-life applications in health,
agriculture, and conservation.