Pearson Edexcel International GCSE - Biology (Modular) Specification - Issue 2

Sep 5, 2026

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (Modular) specification (4XBI1) defines the modular course structure, content coverage, and assessment approach for first teaching in September 2024, with first examinations in June 2025 and first certification in August 2025. Issue 2 documents specific amendments, including updates to appendix 4 command word taxonomy. The specification outlines six biology topics, key sub-topics, required teaching points, practical investigation expectations, and administrative guidance covering entries, forbidden combinations, access arrangements, reasonable adjustments, special consideration, and malpractice.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages56

Reading Time2 h 21 min

AccessFree to download

About this specification

Course introduction

Why choose Pearson Edexcel qualifications?

Why choose Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular)?

Supporting you in planning and implementing this qualification

Qualification at a glance

Biology content

The nature and variety of living organisms

Structure and functions in living organisms: Part 1

Structure and functions in living organisms: Part 2

Reproduction and inheritance

Ecology and the environment

Use of biological resources

Assessment information

Administration and general information

Appendices

Codes

Transferable skills

Mathematical skills

Command word taxonomy

Suggested practical investigations

Glossary

International GCSE Biology (9–1)(Modular) Specification Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular) (4XBI1) First teaching September 2024 First examination June 2025 First certification August 2025 Issue 2 About Pearson We are the world’s leading learning company operating in countries all around the world. We provide content, assessment and digital services to learners, educational institutions, employers, governments and other partners globally. We are committed to helping equip learners with the skills they need to enhance their employability prospects and to succeed in the changing world of work. We believe that wherever learning flourishes so do people. References to third party materials made in this specification are made in good faith. Pearson does not endorse, approve or accept responsibility for the content of materials, which may be subject to change, or any opinions expressed therein. (Materials may include textbooks, journals, magazines and other publications and websites.) All information in this specification is correct at time of publication. Publication code: GQ000037 All the material in this publication is copyright © Pearson Education Limited 2024 Summary of Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular) (4XBI1) specification Issue 2 changes | Summary of changes made between previous issue and this current issue | Page number | | --- | --- | | Appendix 4: Command word taxonomy
Command words amended | 45, 46 | 1 About this specification 1 Course introduction 3 Why choose Pearson Edexcel qualifications? 5 Why choose Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular)? 6 Supporting you in planning and implementing this qualification 8 2 Qualification at a glance 9 3 Biology content 11 1 The nature and variety of living organisms 13 2 Structure and functions in living organisms: Part 1 15 3 Structure and functions in living organisms: Part 2 19 4 Reproduction and inheritance 22 5 Ecology and the environment 25 6 Use of biological resources 27 4 Assessment information 29 5 Administration and general information 32 Entries and forbidden combinations 32 Access arrangements, reasonable adjustments, special consideration and malpractice 32 Awarding and reporting 35 Learner recruitment and progression 36 Appendices 37 Appendix 1: Codes 39 Appendix 2: Transferable skills 41 Appendix 3: Mathematical skills 43 Appendix 4: Command word taxonomy 45 Appendix 5: Suggested practical investigations 47 Appendix 6: Glossary 48 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular) is part of a suite of International GCSE (Modular) qualifications offered by Pearson. This qualification is not accredited or regulated by any UK regulatory body. This specification includes the following key features. Structure: Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Biology (Modular) is a modular qualification. All units are available in the June and November exam series and can be sat in any order or re-sat. A cash-in code must be used to obtain an overall grade for the qualification. Content: The content is relevant, up-to-date, engaging and appropriate for an international audience. Assessment: Untiered, written examinations with questions designed to be accessible to learners of all abilities. Approach: It builds a foundation for learners wishing to progress to the Pearson Edexcel Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced GCE, International AS and A Level qualifications or equivalent qualifications, focusing on key biology theory. Specification updates This specification is Issue 1 and is valid for first teaching from September 2024, with first assessment from June 2025 and first certification from August 2025. If there are any significant changes to the specification, Pearson will inform centres in writing. Changes will also be posted on our website. For more information, [please visit](please visit qualifications.pear

FAQs

What are the key dates for this modular Biology specification?

First teaching starts September 2024, first assessment takes place in June 2025, and first certification is in August 2025.

How is the modular qualification structured and how can units be taken?

All units are available in the June and November exam series, can be taken in any order, and may be re-sat. A cash-in code is required to obtain an overall grade.

What major change is listed in Issue 2?

Issue 2 includes amendments to appendix 4, specifically changes to the command word taxonomy.

Sep 5, 2026

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