Things To Learn in 0654 Syllabus 2023 & 2024

Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award) 0654 syllabus for 2023 and 2024.
3 Subject content
The subject content that follows is divided into three sections: Biology (B1–B13), Chemistry (C1–C14) and Physics
(P1–P8). Candidates must study all three sections.
All candidates should be taught the Core subject content. Candidates who are only taught the Core subject content
can achieve a maximum of grade CC. Candidates aiming for grades A*A* to CC should be taught the Extended
subject content. The Extended subject content includes both the Core and the Supplement.
This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners.
Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting suitable subject contexts, resources and examples to support
your learners’ study. These should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning context as
well as complying with your school policies and local legal requirements.
Scientific subjects are, by their nature, experimental. Learners should pursue a fully integrated course which allows
them to develop their practical skills by carrying out practical work and investigations within all of the topics listed.
Biology
B1 Characteristics of living organisms
B1.1 Characteristics of living organisms
Core Supplement
1 Describe the characteristics of living organisms 2 Define the terms:
by defining the terms:
– movement as an action by an organism – movement as an action by an organism or
causing a change of position or place part of an organism causing a change of
position or place
– respiration as the chemical reactions in cells – respiration as the chemical reactions in cells
that break down nutrient molecules and that break down nutrient molecules and
release energy release energy for metabolism
– sensitivity as the ability to detect and respond – sensitivity as the ability to detect or
to changes in the environment sense stimuli in the internal or external
environment and to make appropriate
responses
– growth as a permanent increase in size – growth as a permanent increase in size and
dry mass by an increase in cell number or cell
size or both
– reproduction as the processes that make
more of the same kind of organism
– excretion as removal from organisms of – excretion as removal from organisms of the
toxic materials and substances in excess of waste products of metabolism (chemical
requirements reactions in cells including respiration),
toxic materials, and substances in excess of
requirements
– nutrition as taking in of materials for energy, – nutrition as taking in of materials for energy,
growth and development growth and development; plants require
light, carbon dioxide, water and ions; animals
need organic compounds and ions and
usually need water
12 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award) 0654 syllabus for 2023 and 2024. Subject content
0654 Biology
B2 Cells
B2.1 Cell structure
Core Supplement
1 State that living organisms are made of cells
2 Describe and compare the structure of a plant
cell with an animal cell, as seen under a light
microscope, limited to cell wall, nucleus,
cytoplasm, chloroplasts, vacuoles and location of
the cell membrane
3 State the functions of the structures seen under 4 Relate the structure of the following to their
the light microscope in the plant cell and in the functions:
animal cell – ciliated cells – movement of mucus in the
trachea and bronchi
– root hair cells – absorption
– palisade mesophyll cells – photosynthesis
– red blood cells – transport of oxygen
– sperm and egg cells – reproduction
5 Calculate magnification and size of biological
specimens using millimetres as units
B2.2 Movement in and out of cells

Core Supplement
1 Define diffusion as the net movement of particles 2 Investigate the factors that influence
from a region of their higher concentration to diffusion, limited to surface area, temperature,
a region of their lower concentration down concentration gradients and diffusion distance
a concentration gradient, as a result of their
random movement
3 State that substances move into and out of cells
by diffusion through the cell membrane
4 State that water diffuses through partially
permeable membranes by osmosis
5 State that water moves in and out of cells by 6 Define osmosis as the net movement of water
osmosis through the cell membrane molecules from a region of higher water
potential (dilute solution) to a region of lower
water potential (concentrated solution), through
a partially permeable membrane
7 Investigate and describe the effects on plant 8 Explain the effects on plant tissues of immersing
tissues of immersing them in solutions of them in solutions of different concentrations
different concentrations by using the terms turgid, turgor pressure,
plasmolysis and flaccid
9 Explain the importance of water potential and
osmosis in the uptake of water by plants
10 Explain the importance of water potential and
osmosis on animal cells and tissues
Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse 13

0654 Biology
B3 Biological molecules
B3.1 Biological molecules
Core
1 List the chemical elements that make up:
– carbohydrates
– fats
– proteins
2 State that large molecules are made from smaller
molecules, limited to:
– starch and glycogen from glucose
– proteins from amino acids
– fats and oils from fatty acids and glycerol
3 Describe the use of:
– iodine solution to test for starch
– Benedict’s solution to test for reducing
sugars
– biuret test for proteins
– ethanol emulsion test for fats and oils
4 State that water is important as a solvent
B4 Enzymes
B4.1 Enzymes
Core Supplement
1 Define enzymes as proteins that function as 2 Explain enzyme action with reference to the
biological catalysts complementary shape of the active site of an
enzyme and its substrate and the formation of a
product
3 Investigate and describe the effect of changes in 4 Explain the effect of changes in temperature on
temperature and pH on enzyme activity enzyme activity in terms of kinetic energy, shape
and fit, frequency of effective collisions and
denaturation
5 Explain the effect of changes in pH on
enzyme activity in terms of shape and fit and
denaturation

0654 Biology
B5 Plant nutrition
B5.1 Plant nutrition
Core Supplement
1 Define photosynthesis as the process by which
plants manufacture carbohydrates from raw
materials using energy from light
2 State the word equation for photosynthesis: 3 State the balanced equation for photosynthesis
carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen,
in the presence of light and chlorophyll 6CO 2 + 6H 2O
light
C 6 H 12 O 6 + 6O 2
chlorophyll
4 Explain that chlorophyll transfers light energy

into chemical energy in molecules, for the
synthesis of carbohydrates
5 Outline the subsequent use and storage of the
carbohydrates made in photosynthesis
6 Investigate the necessity for chlorophyll, light 7 Investigate and describe the effect of varying
and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, using light intensity and temperature on the rate of
appropriate controls photosynthesis (e.g. in submerged aquatic plants)
8 Identify chloroplasts, cuticle, guard cells and 9 Describe the significance of the features of a leaf
stomata, upper and lower epidermis, palisade in terms of functions, to include:
mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, vascular bundles, – palisade mesophyll and distribution of
xylem and phloem in leaves of a dicotyledonous chloroplasts – photosynthesis
plant
– stomata, spongy mesophyll cells and guard
cells – gas exchange
– xylem for transport and support
– phloem for transport
10 Describe the importance of: 11 Explain the effects of nitrate ion and magnesium
– nitrate ions for making amino acids ion deficiency on plant growth
– magnesium ions for making chlorophyll

0654 Biology
B6 Animal nutrition
B6.1 Diet
Core Supplement
1 State what is meant by the term balanced diet for
humans
2 List the principal sources of, and describe the 3 Explain how age, gender and activity affect
dietary importance of: the dietary needs of humans including during
– carbohydrates pregnancy and while breast-feeding
– fats
– proteins
– vitamins, limited to C and D
– mineral salts, limited to calcium and iron
– fibre (roughage)
– water
4 Describe the effects of malnutrition in relation to
starvation, constipation, coronary heart disease,
obesity and scurvy
5 Explain the causes and effects of vitamin D and
iron deficiencies
6 Explain the causes and effects of protein-energy
malnutrition, e.g. kwashiorkor and marasmus

0654 Biology
B6.2 Alimentary canal
Core Supplement
1 Define ingestion as the taking of substances, e.g.
food and drink, into the body through the mouth
2 Define digestion as the breakdown of large, 3 Define mechanical digestion as the breakdown of
insoluble food molecules into small, water- food into smaller pieces without chemical change
soluble molecules using mechanical and chemical to the food molecules
processes 4 Define chemical digestion as the breakdown of
large, insoluble molecules into small, soluble
molecules
5 Define absorption as movement of digested food
molecules through the wall of the intestine into
the blood
6 Define assimilation as the movement of digested
food molecules into the cells of the body where
they are used, becoming part of the cells
7 Define egestion as passing out of food that has
not been digested, as faeces, through the anus
8 Identify the main regions of the alimentary canal
and associated organs, including mouth, salivary
glands, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine,
pancreas, liver, gall bladder, large intestine and
anus
9 Describe the functions of the regions of the
alimentary canal listed above, in relation to
ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation and
egestion of food

0654 Biology
B6.3 Digestion
Core Supplement
1 Identify the types of human teeth (incisors,
canines, premolars and molars)
2 Describe the structure of human teeth, limited to
enamel, dentine, pulp, nerves and cement, as well
as the gums
3 Describe the functions of the types of human
teeth in mechanical digestion of food
4 Describe the proper care of teeth in terms of diet 5 State the causes of dental decay in terms of
and regular brushing a coating of bacteria and food on teeth, the
bacteria respiring sugars in the food, producing
acid which dissolves the enamel and dentine
6 State the significance of chemical digestion in 7 State the functions of enzymes as follows:
the alimentary canal in producing small, soluble – amylase breaks down starch to simpler
molecules that can be absorbed sugars
– protease breaks down protein to amino acids
– lipase breaks down fats to fatty acids and
glycerol
8 State where, in the alimentary canal, amylase,
protease and lipase are secreted
9 State the functions of the hydrochloric acid in
gastric juice, limited to killing bacteria in food
and giving an acid pH for enzymes
10 Explain the functions of the hydrochloric acid in
gastric juice, limited to the low pH:
– denaturing enzymes in harmful
microorganisms in food
– giving the optimum pH for protease activity
11 Outline the role of bile in neutralising the acidic
mixture of food and gastric juices entering the
duodenum from the stomach, to provide a
suitable pH for enzyme action
12 Outline the role of bile in emulsifying fats
to increase the surface area for the chemical
digestion of fat to fatty acids and glycerol by
lipase
13 Explain the significance of villi in increasing the
internal surface area of the small intestine
14 Describe the structure of a villus
15 Describe the roles of capillaries and lacteals in
villi

0654 Biology
B7 Transport
B7.1 Transport in plants
Core Supplement
1 State the functions of xylem and phloem
2 Identify the position of xylem as seen in sections
of roots, stems and leaves, limited to non-woody
dicotyledonous plants
3 Identify root hair cells, as seen under the light 4 Explain that the large surface area of root hairs
microscope, and state their functions increases the rate of absorption of water and ions
5 State the pathway taken by water through root,

stem and leaf as root hair cells, root cortex cells,
xylem and mesophyll cells
6 Investigate, using a suitable stain, the pathway of
water through the above-ground parts of a plant
7 State that water is transported from the roots to
leaves through the xylem vessels
8 Define transpiration as loss of water vapour 9 Explain the mechanism by which water moves
from plant leaves by evaporation of water at upwards in the xylem in terms of a transpiration
the surfaces of the mesophyll cells followed by pull, helping to create a water potential gradient
diffusion of water vapour through the stomata that draws up a column of water molecules, held
together by cohesion
10 Investigate and describe the effects of variation 11 Explain the effects of variation of temperature
of temperature and humidity on transpiration and humidity on transpiration rate
rate 12 Define translocation in terms of the movement of
sucrose and amino acids in phloem:
– from regions of production (source)
– to regions of storage OR to regions where
they are used in respiration or growth (sink)

0654 Biology
B7.2 Transport in mammals
Core Supplement
1 Describe the circulatory system as a system of 2 Describe double circulation in terms of
blood vessels with a pump and valves to ensure circulation to the lungs and circulation to the
one-way flow of blood body tissues in mammals
3 Explain the advantages of a double circulation
4 Name and identify the structures of the
mammalian heart, limited to the muscular wall,
the septum, the left and right ventricles and atria,
one-way valves and coronary arteries
5 State that blood is pumped away from the heart 6 Describe the functioning of the heart in terms
into arteries and returns to the heart in veins of the contraction of muscles of the atria and
ventricles and the action of the valves
7 Name the main blood vessels to and from the: 8 Describe coronary heart disease in terms of
– heart, limited to vena cava, aorta, pulmonary the blockage of coronary arteries and state the
artery and pulmonary vein possible risk factors as diet, stress, smoking,
genetic predisposition, age and gender
– lungs, limited to the pulmonary artery and
pulmonary vein
– kidney, limited to the renal artery and renal
vein
9 Investigate and state the effect of physical 10 Explain the effect of physical activity on the heart
activity on pulse rate rate
11 Describe the structure and functions of arteries, 12 Explain how the structures of arteries, veins and
veins and capillaries capillaries are adapted for their function
13 List the components of blood as red blood cells,
white blood cells, platelets and plasma
14 Identify red and white blood cells, as seen under
the light microscope, on prepared slides and in
diagrams and photomicrographs
15 State the functions of the following components
of blood:
– red blood cells in transporting oxygen,
including the role of haemoglobin
– white blood cells in phagocytosis and
antibody production
– platelets in clotting (details are not required)
– plasma in the transport of blood cells, ions,
soluble nutrients, hormones and carbon
dioxide

0654 Biology
B8 Gas exchange and respiration
B8.1 Gas exchange
Core Supplement
1 Name and identify the lungs, diaphragm, ribs, 2 List the features of gas exchange surfaces in
intercostal muscles, larynx, trachea, bronchi, humans, limited to large surface area, thin
bronchioles, alveoli and associated capillaries surface, good blood supply and good ventilation
with air
3 State the differences in composition between 4 Explain the differences in composition between
inspired and expired air limited to oxygen, carbon inspired and expired air
dioxide and water vapour
5 Use limewater as a test for carbon dioxide
to investigate the differences in composition
between inspired and expired air
6 Investigate and describe the effects of physical 7 Explain the effects of physical activity on rate
activity on rate and depth of breathing and depth of breathing in terms of the increased
carbon dioxide concentration in the blood,
causing an increased rate of breathing
8 Explain the role of goblet cells, mucus and
ciliated cells in protecting the gas exchange
system from pathogens and particles
9 State that tobacco smoking can cause chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung
cancer and coronary heart disease
10 Describe the effects on the gas exchange
system of tobacco smoke and its major toxic
components, limited to carbon monoxide,
nicotine and tar

0654 Biology
B8.2 Respiration
Core Supplement
1 State the uses of energy in the body of humans 2 Define aerobic respiration as the chemical
limited to: muscle contraction, protein synthesis, reactions in cells that use oxygen to break down
cell division, growth and the maintenance of a nutrient molecules to release energy
constant body temperature
3 State the word equation for aerobic respiration 4 State the balanced chemical equation for aerobic
as glucose + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water respiration as
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O
5 Define anaerobic respiration as the chemical
reactions in cells that break down nutrient
molecules to release energy without using
oxygen
6 State the word equation for anaerobic respiration
in muscles during vigorous exercise
(glucose → lactic acid)
7 State that lactic acid builds up in muscles and
blood during vigorous exercise causing an oxygen
debt
8 State the word equation for anaerobic respiration
in microorganism yeast
(glucose → alcohol + carbon dioxide)
9 Describe the role of anaerobic respiration in yeast
during bread-making
10 State that anaerobic respiration releases much
less energy per glucose molecule than aerobic
respiration

0654 Biology
B9 Coordination and response
B9.1 Nervous control in humans
Core Supplement
1 Describe a nerve impulse as an electrical signal
that passes along nerve cells called neurones
2 Describe the human nervous system in terms of: 3 Distinguish between voluntary and involuntary
– the central nervous system consisting of actions
brain and spinal cord
– the peripheral nervous system
– coordination and regulation of body
functions
4 Identify motor (effector), relay (connector) and
sensory neurones from diagrams
5 Describe a simple reflex arc in terms of receptor,
sensory neurone, relay neurone, motor neurones
and effector
6 Describe a reflex action as a means of
automatically and rapidly integrating and
coordinating stimuli with the responses of
effectors (muscles and glands)
B9.2 Sense organs

Supplement
1 Identify the structures of the eye, limited to
cornea, iris, pupil, lens, retina, optic nerve, ciliary
muscles, suspensory ligaments and blind spot
2 Describe the function of each part of the eye,
limited to:
– cornea – refracts light
– iris – controls how much light enters pupil
– lens – focuses light onto retina
– retina – contains light receptors, some
sensitive to light of different colours
– optic nerve – carries impulses to the brain
3 Explain the pupil reflex in terms of light intensity
and antagonistic action of circular and radial
muscles in the iris
4 Explain accommodation to view near and distant
objects in terms of the contraction and relaxation
of the ciliary muscles, tension in the suspensory
ligaments, shape of the lens and refraction of
light

0654 Biology
B9.3 Hormones
Core Supplement
1 Define a hormone as a chemical substance,
produced by a gland, carried by the blood, which
alters the activity of one or more specific target
organs
2 Describe adrenaline as the hormone secreted
in ‘fight or flight’ situations and its effects,
limited to increased breathing and pulse rate and
widened pupils
3 Give examples of situations in which adrenaline 4 Discuss the role of the hormone adrenaline in the
secretion increases chemical control of metabolic activity, including
increasing the blood glucose concentration and
pulse rate
5 Compare nervous and hormonal control systems
in terms of speed and longevity of action
B9.4 Homeostasis
Core Supplement
1 Define homeostasis as the maintenance of a 2 Explain that homeostasis is the control of
constant internal environment internal conditions within set limits
3 Explain the concept of control by negative
feedback
4 Describe the control of the glucose content of
the blood by the liver and the roles of insulin and
glucagon from the pancreas
5 Name and identify on a diagram of the skin:
hairs, hair erector muscles, sweat glands,
receptors, sensory neurones, blood vessels and
fatty tissue
6 Describe the maintenance of a constant internal 7 Describe the maintenance of a constant internal
body temperature in humans in terms of body temperature in humans in terms of
insulation, sweating, shivering and the role of the vasodilation and vasoconstriction of arterioles
brain (limited to blood temperature receptors supplying skin surface capillaries
and coordination)

0654 Biology
B9.5 Tropic responses
Core Supplement
1 Define gravitropism as a response in which parts of
a plant grow towards or away from gravity
2 Define phototropism as a response in which 3 Explain phototropism and gravitropism of a shoot
parts of a plant grow towards or away from the as examples of the chemical control of plant
direction from which light is coming growth
4 Investigate gravitropism and phototropism in 5 Explain the role of auxin in controlling shoot
shoots and roots growth, limited to:
– auxin made in shoot tip (only)
– auxin spreads through the plant from the
shoot tip
– auxin is unequally distributed in response to
light and gravity
– auxin stimulates cell elongation
B10 Reproduction
B10.1 Asexual and sexual reproduction
Core Supplement
1 Define asexual reproduction as a process resulting 2 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
in the production of genetically identical asexual reproduction to a population of a species
offspring from one parent in the wild
3 Identify examples of asexual reproduction from
information provided
4 Define sexual reproduction as a process involving 5 State that the nuclei of gametes are haploid and
the fusion of the nuclei of two gametes (sex cells) that the nucleus of a zygote is diploid
to form a zygote and the production of offspring 6 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
that are genetically different from each other sexual reproduction to a population of a species
in the wild

0654 Biology
B10.2 Sexual reproduction in plants
Core Supplement
1 Identify and draw, using a hand lens if necessary, 2 Use a hand lens to identify and describe the
the sepals, petals, stamens, filaments and anthers and stigmas of a wind-pollinated flower
anthers, carpels, style, stigma, ovary and ovules,
of an insect-pollinated flower
3 State the functions of the sepals, petals, anthers, 4 Distinguish between the pollen grains of insect-
stigmas and ovaries pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers
5 Define pollination as the transfer of pollen grains
from the anther to the stigma
6 Name the agents of pollination
7 State that fertilisation occurs when a pollen 8 Describe the structural adaptations of insect-
nucleus fuses with a nucleus in an ovule pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers
9 Investigate and state the environmental
conditions that affect germination of seeds,
limited to the requirement for water, oxygen and
a suitable temperature

0654 Biology
B10.3 Sexual reproduction in humans
Core Supplement
1 Identify and name on diagrams of the male
reproductive system: the testes, scrotum, sperm
ducts, prostate gland, urethra and penis
2 State the function of the parts of the male
reproductive system limited to:
– testes – production of male gametes (sperm)
– scrotum – sac that holds the testes outside
the body
– sperm ducts – transfer sperm to the urethra
– prostate gland – secrete fluids for sperm to
swim in forming semen
– urethra – carries urine and semen out of the
body
– penis – transfers semen to vagina during
sexual intercourse
3 Identify and name on diagrams of the female
reproductive system: the ovaries, oviducts,
uterus, cervix and vagina
4 State the function of the parts of the female
reproductive system limited to:
– ovaries – release of female gametes (eggs)
– oviducts – transfers egg to uterus and the site
of fertilisation
– uterus – where the fetus develops
– cervix – ring of muscle at the opening of the
uterus
– vagina – receives penis during sexual
intercourse
5 Describe fertilisation as the fusion of the nuclei 6 Compare male and female gametes in terms of
from a male gamete (sperm) and a female size, structure, motility and numbers
gamete (egg cell/ovum) 7 State the adaptive features of sperm, limited to
flagellum and the presence of enzymes
8 State the adaptive features of egg cells, limited
to energy stores and a jelly coating that changes
after fertilisation
9 Describe the menstrual cycle in terms of changes
in the uterus and ovaries (knowledge of sex
hormones is not required) continued

0654 Biology
B10.3 Sexual reproduction in humans continued
Core Supplement
10 State that in early development, the zygote 11 State the functions of the umbilical cord,
forms an embryo which is a ball of cells that placenta, amniotic sac and amniotic fluid
implants into the wall of the uterus 12 Describe the function of the placenta and
umbilical cord in relation to exchange of
dissolved nutrients, gases and excretory products
and providing a barrier to toxins (structural
details are not required)
13 State that human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) infection may lead to acquired immune
deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
14 Describe the methods of transmission of HIV
15 Explain how the spread of sexually transmitted
infections (STIs) is controlled
B11 Inheritance
B11.1 Chromosomes and genes
Core Supplement
1 Define inheritance as the transmission of genetic
information from generation to generation
2 Define chromosome as a thread-like structure of
DNA, carrying genetic information in the form of
genes
3 Define gene as a length of DNA that codes for a
protein
4 Define allele as a version of a gene
5 Describe the inheritance of sex in humans with 6 Define a haploid nucleus as a nucleus containing
reference to XX and XY chromosomes a single set of unpaired chromosomes, e.g. in
gametes
7 Define a diploid nucleus as a nucleus containing
two sets of chromosomes, e.g. in body cells
8 State that in a diploid cell, chromosomes are
arranged in pairs and in a human diploid cell
there are 23 pairs

0654 Biology
B11.2 Cell division
Supplement
1 Define mitosis as nuclear division giving rise to
genetically identical cells (details of stages are
not required)
2 State that the exact duplication of chromosomes
occurs before mitosis
3 State the role of mitosis in growth, repair of
damaged tissues, replacement of cells and
asexual reproduction
4 Define meiosis as reduction division in which the
chromosome number is halved from diploid to
haploid resulting in genetically different cells
(details of stages are not required)
5 State that meiosis is involved in the production
of gametes
B11.3 Monohybrid inheritance

Core Supplement
1 Define genotype as the genetic make-up of an
organism in terms of the alleles present
2 Define phenotype as the observable features of
an organism
3 Define homozygous as having two identical
alleles of a particular gene
4 State that two identical homozygous individuals
that breed together will be pure-breeding
5 Define heterozygous as having two different
alleles of a particular gene
6 State that a heterozygous individual will not be
pure-breeding
7 Define dominant as an allele that is expressed if it
is present
8 Define recessive as an allele that is only expressed
when there is no dominant allele of the gene
present
9 Use genetic diagrams to predict the results of
monohybrid crosses and calculate phenotypic
ratios, limited to 1:1 and 3:1 ratios
10 Use Punnett squares in crosses which result in 11 Interpret pedigree diagrams for the inheritance of
more than one genotype to work out and show a given characteristic
the possible different genotypes

0654 Biology
B11.4 Variation and selection
Core Supplement
1 Define variation as differences between
individuals of the same species
2 Distinguish between phenotypic variation and 3 State that phenotypic variation is caused by both
genetic variation genetic and environmental factors
4 State that continuous variation results in a range 5 State that discontinuous variation is mostly
of phenotypes between two extremes, e.g. height caused by genes alone, e.g. A, B, AB and O blood
in humans groups in humans
6 State that discontinuous variation results
in a limited number of phenotypes with no
intermediates, e.g. tongue rolling
7 Record and present the results of investigations 8 Define mutation as a change in a gene or
into continuous and discontinuous variation chromosome
9 State that ionising radiation and some chemicals
increase the rate of mutation
10 Describe natural selection with reference to: 11 Describe evolution as the change in adaptive
– variation within populations features of a population over time as the result of
natural selection
– production of many offspring
12 Define the process of adaptation as the process,
– competition for resources
resulting from natural selection, by which
– struggle for survival populations become more suited to their
– reproduction by individuals that are better environment over many generations
adapted to the environment than others 13 Describe the development of strains of antibiotic
– passing on of their alleles to the next resistant bacteria as an example of evolution by
generation natural selection
14 Describe selective breeding with reference to: 15 State the differences between natural and
– selection by humans of individuals with artificial selection
desirable features 16 Outline how selective breeding by artificial
– crossing these individuals to produce the selection is carried out over many generations to
next generation improve crop plants and domesticated animals
– selection of offspring showing the desirable
features

0654 Biology
B12 Organisms and their environment
B12.1 Organisms and their environment
Core Supplement
1 State that the Sun is the principal source of
energy input to biological systems
2 Define the terms: 3 Define the terms:
– food chain as showing the transfer of energy – ecosystem as a unit containing all of the
from one organism to the next, beginning organisms and their environment, interacting
with a producer together, in a given area, e.g. a lake
– food web as a network of interconnected – trophic level as the position of an organism in
food chains a food chain or food web
– producer as an organism that makes its own 4 Describe how energy is transferred between
organic nutrients, usually using energy from trophic levels
sunlight, through photosynthesis 5 Explain why food chains usually have fewer than
– consumer as an organism that gets its energy five trophic levels
by feeding on other organisms
– herbivore as an animal that gets its energy by
eating plants
– carnivore as an animal that gets its energy by
eating other animals
– decomposer as an organism that gets its
energy from dead or waste organic matter
6 Construct simple food chains
7 Interpret food chains and food webs in terms of
identifying producers and consumers
8 State that consumers may be classed as primary, 9 Identify producers, primary consumers,
secondary and tertiary according to their position secondary consumers, tertiary consumers and
in a food chain quaternary consumers as the trophic levels in
food webs and food chains

0654 Biology
B13 Human influences on ecosystems
B13.1 Human influences on ecosystems
Core Supplement
1 Describe the carbon cycle, limited to 2 Discuss the effects of the combustion of fossil
photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, fuels and the cutting down of forests on the
decomposition, fossilisation and combustion oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in the
atmosphere
3 List the undesirable effects of deforestation as 4 Explain the undesirable effects of deforestation
an example of habitat destruction, to include on the environment
extinction, loss of soil, flooding and increase of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
5 State the sources and effects of pollution of 6 Explain the process of eutrophication of water in
water (rivers, lakes and the sea) by chemical terms of:
waste, discarded rubbish, untreated sewage and – increased availability of nitrate and other ions
fertilisers
– increased growth of producers
– increased decomposition after death of
producers
– increased aerobic respiration by decomposers
– reduction in dissolved oxygen
– death of organisms requiring dissolved
oxygen in water

Chemistry
C1 The particulate nature of matter
C1.1 The particulate nature of matter
Core Supplement
1 State the distinguishing properties of solids,
liquids and gases
2 Describe the structure of solids, liquids and gases
in terms of particle separation, arrangement and
types of motion
3 Describe the changes of state in terms of melting,
boiling, evaporation, freezing and condensation
4 Demonstrate understanding of the terms atom, 5 Explain changes of state in terms of particle
molecule and ion theory and the energy changes involved
6 Describe and explain diffusion in terms of the 7 Describe and explain dependence of rate of
movement of particles (atoms, molecules or diffusion on molecular mass
ions)
C2 Experimental techniques
C2.1 Measurement
Core
1 Name and suggest appropriate apparatus for
the measurement of time, temperature, mass
and volume, including burettes, pipettes and
measuring cylinders
C2.2 Criteria of purity

Core Supplement
1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of
paper chromatography
2 Interpret simple chromatograms 3 Interpret simple chromatograms, including the
use of Rf values
4 Understand the importance of purity in
substances for use in everyday life, e.g. in the
manufacture of compounds to use in drugs and
food additives
5 Recognise that mixtures melt and boil over a 6 Identify substances and assess their purity from
range of temperatures melting point and boiling point information

0654 Chemistry
C2.3 Methods of purification
Core
1 Describe and explain methods of separation
and purification by the use of a suitable solvent,
filtration, crystallisation, distillation, fractional
distillation and paper chromatography
2 Suggest suitable separation and purification
techniques, given information about the
substances involved
C3 Atoms, elements and compounds

C3.1 Physical and chemical changes
Core Supplement
1 Identify physical and chemical changes, and 2 Understand that some chemical reactions can be
understand the differences between them reversed by changing the reaction conditions
(Limited to the effects of heat and water on
hydrated and anhydrous copper(II) sulfate and
cobalt(II) chloride.) (Concept of equilibrium is
not required.)
C3.2 Elements, compounds and mixtures

Core
1 Describe the differences between elements,
mixtures and compounds, and between metals
and non-metals
2 Define the terms solvent, solute, solution and
concentration

0654 Chemistry
C3.3 Atomic structure and the Periodic Table
Core Supplement
1 Describe the structure of an atom in terms of a
central nucleus, containing protons and neutrons,
and ‘shells’ of electrons
2 Describe the build-up of electrons in ‘shells’
and understand the significance of the noble
gas electronic structures and of the outer-shell
electrons
(The ideas of the distribution of electrons in
s and p orbitals and in d-block elements are
not required.)
3 State the charges and approximate relative
masses of protons, neutrons and electrons
4 Define and use proton number (atomic number)
as the number of protons in the nucleus of an
atom
5 Define and use nucleon number (mass number) as
the total number of protons and neutrons in the
nucleus of an atom
6 Use proton number and the simple structure of
atoms to explain the basis of the Periodic Table,
with special reference to the elements of proton
numbers 1 to 20
7 Define isotopes as atoms of the same element 8 Understand that isotopes have the same
which have the same proton number but a properties because they have the same number
different nucleon number of electrons in their outer shell
Note: a copy of the Periodic Table, as shown in the

Appendix, will be provided in Papers 1, 2, 3 and 4.
C3.4 Ions and ionic bonds

Core Supplement
1 Describe the formation of ions by electron loss or
gain
2 Use dot-and-cross diagrams to describe the 3 Describe the formation of ionic bonds between
formation of ionic bonds between Group I and metallic and non-metallic elements to include
Group VII the strong attraction between ions because of
their opposite electrical charges
4 Describe the lattice structure of ionic compounds
as a regular arrangement of alternating positive
and negative ions, exemplified by the sodium
chloride structure

0654 Chemistry
C3.5 Molecules and covalent bonds
Core Supplement
1 State that non-metallic elements form simple
molecules with covalent bonds between atoms
2 Describe the formation of single covalent bonds 3 Use and draw dot-and-cross diagrams to
in H2, Cl2, H2O, CH4, NH3 and HCl as the sharing represent the bonding in the more complex
of pairs of electrons leading to the noble gas covalent molecules such as N2, C2H4, CH3OH,
configuration including the use of dot-and-cross and CO2
diagrams
4 Describe the differences in volatility, solubility 5 Explain the differences in melting point and
and electrical conductivity between ionic and boiling point of ionic and covalent compounds in
covalent compounds terms of attractive forces
C3.6 Macromolecules
Core Supplement
1 State that there are several different forms of
carbon, including diamond and graphite
2 Describe the giant covalent structures of graphite 3 Relate the structures of diamond and graphite
and diamond to their uses, e.g. graphite as a lubricant and a
conductor and diamond in cutting tools
4 Describe the macromolecular structure of
silicon(IV) oxide (silicon dioxide, SiO2)
C4 Stoichiometry
C4.1 Stoichiometry
Core Supplement
1 Use the symbols of the elements and write the 2 Determine the formula of an ionic compound
formulae of simple compounds from the charges on the ions present
3 Deduce the formula of a simple compound from
the relative numbers of atoms present
4 Deduce the formula of a simple compound from
a model or a diagrammatic representation
5 Construct and use word equations
6 Interpret and balance simple symbol equations 7 Construct and use symbol equations, with state
symbols, including ionic equations
8 Deduce the balanced equation for a chemical
reaction, given relevant information
9 Define relative atomic mass, Ar , as the average
mass of naturally occurring atoms of an element
on a scale where the 12C atom has a mass of
exactly 12 units
10 Define relative molecular mass, Mr , as the sum of
the relative atomic masses (relative formula mass
or Mr will be used for ionic compounds)

0654 Chemistry
C4.2 The mole
Supplement
1 Define the mole in terms of a specific number of
particles called Avogadro’s constant
2 Use the molar gas volume, taken as 24 dm3 at
room temperature and pressure
3 Calculate stoichiometric reacting masses,
volumes of gases and solutions, and
concentrations of solutions expressed in
g / dm3 and mol / dm3. (Calculations involving the
idea of limiting reactants may be set.)
C5 Electricity and chemistry

C5.1 Electricity and chemistry
Core Supplement
1 Define electrolysis as the breakdown of an ionic
compound when molten or in aqueous solution
by the passage of electricity
2 Use the terms inert electrode, electrolyte, anode 3 Describe electrolysis in terms of the ions present
and cathode and the reactions at the electrodes, in terms of
4 Describe the electrode products and the gain of electrons by cations and loss of electrons
observations made, using inert electrodes by anions to form atoms
(platinum or carbon), in the electrolysis of:
– molten lead(II) bromide 5 State the general principle that metals or hydrogen
– concentrated aqueous sodium chloride are formed at the negative electrode (cathode), and
that non-metals (other than hydrogen) are formed
– dilute sulfuric acid
at the positive electrode (anode)
6 Relate the products of electrolysis to the
electrolyte and electrodes used, exemplified
by the specific examples in the Core together
with aqueous copper(II) sulfate using carbon
electrodes and using copper electrodes (as used
in the refining of copper)
7 Construct simple ionic half-equations for the
formation of elements at the cathode
8 Describe electroplating with copper 9 Predict the products of the electrolysis of a
specified molten binary compound
10 Describe, in outline, the chemistry of the
manufacture of:
– aluminium from pure aluminium oxide in
molten cryolite
– chlorine, hydrogen and sodium hydroxide
from concentrated aqueous sodium chloride
(Starting materials and essential conditions should
be given but not technical details or diagrams.)

0654 Chemistry
C6 Energy changes in chemical reactions
C6.1 Energy changes in chemical reactions
Core Supplement
1 Describe the meaning of exothermic and 2 Describe bond breaking as an endothermic
endothermic reactions process and bond forming as an exothermic
process
3 Draw and label energy level diagrams for
exothermic and endothermic reactions using data
provided
4 Interpret energy level diagrams showing
exothermic and endothermic reactions and the
activation energy of a reaction
C7 Chemical reactions
C7.1 Rate (speed) of reaction
Core Supplement
1 Describe practical methods for investigating the
rate of a reaction which produces a gas
2 Interpret data obtained from experiments 3 Suggest suitable apparatus, given information,
concerned with rate of reaction for experiments, including collection of gases and
measurement of rates of reaction
4 Describe the effect of concentration, particle 5 Describe and explain the effect of changing
size, catalysts and temperature on the rate of concentration in terms of frequency of collisions
reactions between reacting particles
6 Describe and explain the effect of changing
temperature in terms of the frequency of
collisions between reacting particles and more
colliding particles possessing the minimum
energy (activation energy) to react
7 Describe how concentration, temperature
and surface area create a danger of explosive
combustion with fine powders (e.g. flour mills)
and gases (e.g. methane in mines)
Note: Candidates should be encouraged to use the

term rate rather than speed.

0654 Chemistry
C7.2 Redox
Core Supplement
1 Describe oxidation and reduction in chemical 2 Define redox in terms of electron transfer, and
reactions in terms of oxygen loss / gain identify such reactions from given information,
(Oxidation state limited to its use to name ions, which could include simple equations
e.g. iron(II), iron(III), copper(II).) 3 Define and identify an oxidising agent as a
substance which oxidises another substance
during a redox reaction and a reducing agent as
a substance which reduces another substance
during a redox reaction
C8 Acids, bases and salts

C8.1 The characteristic properties of acids and bases
Core Supplement
1 Describe neutrality and relative acidity and
alkalinity in terms of pH (whole numbers only)
measured using universal indicator
2 Describe the characteristic properties of acids
(exemplified by dilute hydrochloric acid and
dilute sulfuric acid) including their effect on
litmus paper and their reactions with metals,
bases and carbonates
3 Describe the characteristic properties of bases
including their effect on litmus paper and their
reactions with acids and ammonium salts
4 Describe and explain the importance of 5 Define acids and bases in terms of proton (H+)
controlling acidity in soil transfer, limited to aqueous solutions
C8.2 Types of oxides

Core Supplement
1 Classify oxides as either acidic or basic, related to 2 Further classify other oxides as neutral or
metallic and non-metallic character amphoteric
C8.3 Preparation of salts

Core Supplement
1 Describe the preparation, separation and 2 Suggest a method of making a given salt from
purification of salts using techniques specified in suitable starting material, given appropriate
Section C2 and the reactions specified in Section information, including precipitation
C8.1

0654 Chemistry
C8.4 Identification of ions and gases
Core
1 Describe and use the following tests to identify:
aqueous cations:
ammonium, calcium, copper(II), iron(II), iron(III)
and zinc, using aqueous sodium hydroxide and
aqueous ammonia as appropriate (formulae of
complex ions are not required)
cations:
flame tests to identify lithium, sodium,
potassium and copper(II)
anions:
carbonate (by reaction with dilute acid and then
limewater), chloride and bromide (by reaction
under acidic conditions with aqueous silver
nitrate), nitrate (by reduction with aluminium)
and sulfate (by reaction under acidic conditions
with aqueous barium ions)
gases:
ammonia (using damp red litmus paper), carbon
dioxide (using limewater), chlorine (using damp
litmus paper), hydrogen (using a lighted splint),
oxygen (using a glowing splint)
C9 The Periodic Table

C9.1 The Periodic Table
Core
1 Describe the Periodic Table as a method of
classifying elements and its use to predict
properties of elements
C9.2 Periodic trends

Core Supplement
1 Describe the change from metallic to non- 2 Describe the relationship between group number,
metallic character across a period number of outer-shell electrons and metallic/
non-metallic character

0654 Chemistry
C9.3 Group properties
Core Supplement
1 Describe lithium, sodium and potassium in 2 Predict the properties of other elements in
Group I as a collection of relatively soft metals Group I, given data, where appropriate
showing a trend in melting point, density and
reaction with water
3 Describe the halogens, chlorine, bromine and 4 State the reaction of chlorine, bromine and
iodine in Group VII, as a collection of diatomic iodine with other halide ions
non-metals showing a trend in colour and 5 Predict the properties of other elements in
physical state Group VII, given data where appropriate
6 Identify trends in other groups, given data about
the elements concerned
C9.4 Transition elements

Core
1 Describe the transition elements as a collection
of metals having high densities, high melting
points and forming coloured compounds, and
which, as elements and compounds, often act as
catalysts
C9.5 Noble gases

Core
1 Describe the noble gases, in Group VIII or 0, as
being unreactive, monoatomic gases and explain
this in terms of electronic structure
2 State the uses of the noble gases in providing an
inert atmosphere, i.e. argon in lamps, helium for
filling balloons

0654 Chemistry
C10 Metals
C10.1 Properties of metals
Core Supplement
1 Describe the general physical properties of 2 Describe metallic bonding as a lattice of positive
metals as solids with high melting and boiling ions in a ‘sea of electrons’ and use this to describe
points, malleable and good conductors of heat the electrical conductivity and malleability of
and electricity metals
3 Describe alloys, such as brass, as mixtures of a
metal with other elements
4 Explain in terms of their properties why alloys are 5 Describe how the properties of iron are changed
used instead of pure metals by the controlled use of additives to form steel
alloys, such as mild steel and stainless steel
6 Identify representations of alloys from diagrams
of structure
C10.2 Reactivity series

Core Supplement
1 Place in order of reactivity: potassium, sodium, 2 Describe the reactivity series in terms of the
calcium, magnesium, aluminium, (carbon), zinc, tendency of a metal to form its positive ion,
iron, (hydrogen) and copper, by reference to the illustrated by its reaction, if any, with:
reactions, if any, of the elements with: – aqueous ions of other listed metals
– water or steam – the oxides of other listed metals
– dilute hydrochloric acid
– reduction of their oxides with carbon
3 Deduce an order of reactivity from a given set of
experimental results
C10.3 Extraction of metals from their ores

Core Supplement
1 Describe the use of carbon in the extraction of 2 Describe and explain the essential reactions
some metals from their ores in the extraction of iron from hematite in the
blast furnace, including the removal of acidic
impurities as slag
C + O2 → CO2
C + CO2 → 2CO
Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2
CaCO3 → CaO + CO2
CaO + SiO2 → CaSiO3
3 Know that aluminium is extracted from the ore 4 Relate the method of extraction of a metal from
bauxite by electrolysis its ore to its position in the reactivity series for
the metals listed in section C10.2 and for other
metals, given information
5 Describe metal ores as a finite resource and
hence the need to recycle metals

0654 Chemistry
C10.4 Uses of metals
Core Supplement
1 Describe the uses of aluminium: 2 Describe and explain the apparent unreactivity
– in aircraft parts because of its strength and of aluminium in terms of the oxide layer which
low density adheres to the metal
– in food containers because of its resistance
to corrosion
3 State the uses of mild steel (car bodies and 4 Explain the uses of zinc for galvanising steel and
machinery) and stainless steel (chemical plant for making brass
and cutlery)
C11 Air and water

C11.1 Water
Core
1 Describe a chemical test for water using
copper(II) sulfate and cobalt(II) chloride
2 Describe, in outline, the treatment of the water
supply in terms of filtration and chlorination

0654 Chemistry
C11.2 Air
Core Supplement
1 State the composition of clean air as being a
mixture of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and small
quantities of noble gases, water vapour and
carbon dioxide
2 Name the common pollutants in air as being
carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and oxides of
nitrogen
3 State the adverse effect of these common air
pollutants on buildings and on health
4 State the source of each of these pollutants: 5 Describe some approaches to reducing emissions
– carbon monoxide from the incomplete of sulfur dioxide, including the use of low sulfur
combustion of carbon-containing substances petrol and flue gas desulfurisation by calcium
oxide
– sulfur dioxide from the combustion of
fossil fuels which contain sulfur compounds 6 Describe, in outline, how a catalytic converter
(leading to acid rain) removes nitrogen monoxide and carbon
monoxide from exhaust emissions by reaction
– oxides of nitrogen from car engines
over a hot catalyst
2CO + O2 → 2CO2
2NO + 2CO → N2 + 2CO2
2NO → N2 + O2
7 State the conditions required for the rusting of
iron (presence of oxygen and water)
8 Describe and explain barrier methods of rust 9 Describe and explain sacrificial protection in
prevention, including paint and other coatings terms of the reactivity series of metals and
galvanising as a method of rust prevention
C11.3 Carbon dioxide and methane

Core Supplement
1 State the formation of carbon dioxide:
– as a product of complete combustion of
carbon-containing substances
– as a product of respiration
– as a product of the reaction between an acid
and a carbonate
– as a product of thermal decomposition of
calcium carbonate
2 State that carbon dioxide and methane are 3 State that increased concentrations of
greenhouse gases greenhouse gases cause an enhanced greenhouse
effect, which may contribute to climate change

0654 Chemistry
C11.4 Nitrogen and fertilisers
Core Supplement
1 Describe the need for nitrogen-, phosphorus- and
potassium-containing fertilisers
2 Describe the displacement of ammonia from its 3 Describe and explain the essential conditions
salts for the manufacture of ammonia by the Haber
process including the sources of the hydrogen
(reaction of methane/natural gas with steam)
and nitrogen (from the air)
C12 Sulfur
C12.1 Sulfur
Core Supplement
1 Name the use of sulfur in the manufacture of 2 Describe the manufacture of sulfuric acid by the
sulfuric acid Contact process, including essential conditions
and reactions
S + O2 → SO2
2SO2 + O2 ⇌ 2SO3
H2SO4 + SO3 → H2S2O7
H2S2O7 + H2O → 2H2SO4
C13 Carbonates
C13.1 Carbonates
Core
1 Describe the manufacture of lime (calcium oxide)
from limestone (calcium carbonate) in terms of
the chemical reactions involved, and the use of
limestone in treating acidic soil and neutralising
acidic industrial waste products
2 Describe the thermal decomposition of calcium
carbonate (limestone)
C14 Organic chemistry

C14.1 Names of compounds
Core Supplement
1 Name and draw the structures of methane,
ethane, ethene and ethanol
2 State the type of compound present, given a 3 Name and draw the structures of the unbranched
chemical name ending in -ane, -ene and -ol, or a alkanes and alkenes (not cis-trans), containing up
molecular structure to four carbon atoms per molecule

0654 Chemistry
C14.2 Fuels
Core Supplement
1 State that coal, natural gas and petroleum are
fossil fuels that produce carbon dioxide on
combustion
2 Name methane as the main constituent of
natural gas
3 Describe petroleum as a mixture of hydrocarbons 4 Describe the properties of molecules within a
and its separation into useful fractions by fraction
fractional distillation
5 Name the uses of the fractions as:
– refinery gas for bottled gas for heating and
cooking
– gasoline fraction for fuel (petrol) in cars
– naphtha fraction as a feedstock for making
chemicals
– diesel oil / gas oil for fuel in diesel engines
– bitumen for road surfaces
C14.3 Homologous series

Supplement
1 Describe the homologous series of alkanes and
alkenes as families of compounds with the same
general formula and similar chemical properties
C14.4 Alkanes
Core
1 Describe alkanes as saturated hydrocarbons
whose molecules contain only single covalent
bonds
2 Describe the properties of alkanes (exemplified
by methane) as being generally unreactive,
except in terms of burning
3 Describe the complete combustion of
hydrocarbons to give carbon dioxide and water

0654 Chemistry
C14.5 Alkenes
Core Supplement
1 Describe alkenes as unsaturated hydrocarbons
whose molecules contain one double covalent
bond
2 State that cracking is a reaction that produces 3 Describe the formation of smaller alkanes,
alkenes alkenes and hydrogen by the cracking of larger
alkane molecules and state the conditions
required for cracking
4 Recognise saturated and unsaturated 5 Describe the properties of alkenes in terms of
hydrocarbons: addition reactions with bromine, hydrogen and
– from molecular structures steam, exemplified by ethene
– by their reaction with aqueous bromine
C14.6 Alcohols
Core Supplement
1 State that ethanol may be formed by 2 Describe the formation of ethanol by
fermentation and by reaction between ethene fermentation and the catalytic addition of steam
and steam to ethene
3 Describe the complete combustion of ethanol to
give carbon dioxide and water
4 State the uses of ethanol as a solvent and as a
fuel
C14.7 Polymers
Core Supplement
1 Define polymers as long chain molecules formed 2 Understand that different polymers have
from small units (monomers) different monomer units and/or different linkages
C14.8 Synthetic polymers

Core Supplement
1 Describe the formation of poly(ethene) as an 2 Deduce the structure of the polymer product
example of addition polymerisation of monomer from a given alkene and vice versa
units 3 Explain the differences between addition and
condensation polymerisation
4 Describe the formation of a simple condensation
polymer exemplified by nylon, the structure of
nylon being represented as:
O O O O O
C C N N C C N N C
H H H H

Physics
P1 Motion
P1.1 Length and time
Core Supplement
1 Use and describe the use of rules and measuring 2 Understand that a micrometer screw gauge is
cylinders to find a length or a volume used to measure very small distances
3 Use and describe the use of clocks and devices,
both analogue and digital, for measuring an
interval of time
4 Obtain an average value for a small distance
and for a short interval of time by measuring
multiples (including the period of a pendulum)
P1.2 Motion
Core Supplement
1 Define speed and calculate average speed from 2 Distinguish between speed and velocity
total distance 3 Define and calculate acceleration using
total time change of velocity
total time
4 Plot and interpret a speed–time graph and a 5 Calculate acceleration from the gradient of a
distance–time graph speed–time graph
6 Recognise from the shape of a speed–time graph 7 Recognise linear motion for which the
when a body is: acceleration is constant and calculate the
– at rest acceleration
– moving with constant speed
– moving with changing speed
8 Calculate the area under a speed–time graph to 9 Recognise motion for which the acceleration is
work out the distance travelled for motion with not constant
constant acceleration
10 Demonstrate an understanding that acceleration
and deceleration are related to changing speed
including qualitative analysis of the gradient of a
speed–time graph
11 State that the acceleration of free fall g for a
body near to the Earth is constant

0654 Physics
P1.3 Mass and weight
Core Supplement
1 Distinguish between mass and weight
2 Know that the Earth is the source of a 3 Describe, and use the concept of, weight as the
gravitational field effect of a gravitational field on a mass
4 Recognise that g is the gravitational force on unit
mass and is measured in N / kg
5 Recall and use the equation W = mg
6 Demonstrate understanding that weights (and
hence masses) may be compared using a balance
P1.4 Density
Core Supplement
1 Recall and use the equation ρ = m
V
2 Describe an experiment to determine the density 3 Describe the determination of the density of
of a liquid and of a regularly-shaped solid and an irregularly shaped solid by the method of
make the necessary calculation displacement and make the necessary calculation
P1.5 Forces
P1.5.1 Effects of forces
Core Supplement
1 Describe how forces may change the size, shape 2 Plot and interpret extension–load graphs and
and motion of a body describe the associated experimental procedure
3 State Hooke’s law and recall and use the
expression F = k x, where k is the spring constant
4 Recognise the significance of the term limit of
proportionality for an extension–load graph
5 Recall and use the relationship between resultant
force, mass and acceleration, F = ma
6 Understand friction as the force between two
surfaces which impedes motion and results in
heating
7 Recognise air resistance as a form of friction
8 Find the resultant of two or more forces acting
along the same line
9 Recognise that if there is no resultant force on
a body it either remains at rest or continues at
constant speed in a straight line

0654 Physics
P1.5 Forces continued
P1.5.2 Turning effect
Core Supplement
1 Describe the moment of a force as a measure of
its turning effect, and give everyday examples
2 Calculate moment using the product force ×
perpendicular distance from the pivot
3 Recognise that, when there is no resultant force 4 Apply the principle of moments to the balancing
and no resultant turning effect, a system is in of a weightless beam about a pivot
equilibrium 5 Apply the principle of moments to different
situations
P1.5.3 Centre of mass

Core
1 Perform and describe an experiment to
determine the position of the centre of mass of a
plane lamina
2 Describe qualitatively the effect of the position
of the centre of mass on the stability of simple
objects
P1.5.4 Pressure
Core Supplement
1 Relate qualitatively pressure to force and area, 2 Recall and use the equation p = F / A
using appropriate examples
P2 Work, energy and power

P2.1 Work
Core Supplement
1 Relate (without calculation) work done to the 2 Recall and use W = Fd = ΔE
magnitude of a force and distance moved in the
direction of the force

0654 Physics
P2.2 Energy
Core Supplement
1 Demonstrate an understanding that work done =
energy transferred
2 Demonstrate understanding that an object may
have energy due to its motion (kinetic energy,
KE) or its position (potential energy, PE) and that
energy may be transferred and stored
3 Give and identify examples of changes in kinetic, 4 Recall and use the expressions
gravitational potential, chemical potential, elastic KE = ½mv 2 and gravitational potential
potential (strain), nuclear, thermal, light, sound energy (GPE) = mgh or change in
and electrical energy that have occurred as a GPE = mgΔh
result of an event or process
5 Recognise that energy is transferred during
events and processes, including examples of
transfer by forces (mechanical working), by
electric currents (electrical working), by heating
and by waves
6 Apply the principle of conservation of energy to
simple examples
7 Show a qualitative understanding of efficiency
P2.3 Power
Core Supplement
1 Relate (without calculation) power to work done 2 Recall and use the equation P = ΔE / t in simple
and time taken, using appropriate examples systems, including electrical circuits

0654 Physics
P2.4 Energy resources
Core Supplement
1 Distinguish between renewable and non-
renewable sources of energy
2 Describe how electricity or other useful forms of
energy may be obtained from:
– chemical energy stored in fuel
– water, including the energy stored in waves,
in tides, and in water behind hydroelectric
dams
– geothermal resources
– nuclear fission
– heat and light from the Sun (solar cells and
panels)
– wind energy
3 Give advantages and disadvantages of each 4 Understand that the Sun is the source of energy
method in terms of renewability, cost, reliability, for all our energy resources except geothermal,
scale and environmental impact nuclear and tidal
5 Understand that the source of tidal energy is
mainly the moon
6 Show an understanding that energy is released by
nuclear fusion in the Sun
7 Recall and use the equations:
efficiency = useful energy output × 100%

energy input
efficiency = useful power output × 100%

power input

0654 Physics
P3 Thermal physics
P3.1 Simple kinetic molecular model of matter
Core Supplement
1 State the distinguishing properties of solids, 2 Relate the properties of solids, liquids and
liquids and gases gases to the forces and distances between the
molecules and to the motion of the molecules
3 Describe qualitatively the molecular structure
of solids, liquids and gases in terms of the
arrangement, separation, and motion of the
molecules
4 Describe qualitatively the pressure of a gas and 5 Describe qualitatively the pressure of a gas in
the temperature of a gas, liquid or solid in terms terms of the motion of its molecules and their
of the motion of its particles colliding with the walls creating a force
6 Show an understanding of Brownian motion 7 Show an appreciation that massive particles may
(the random motion of particles in a suspension) be moved by light, fast-moving molecules
as evidence for the kinetic molecular model of
matter
8 Use and describe the use of thermometers to
measure temperature on the Celsius scale
9 Describe melting and boiling in terms of energy
input without a change in temperature
10 State the meaning of melting point and boiling 11 Distinguish between boiling and evaporation
point, and recall the melting and boiling points
for water
12 Describe condensation and solidification
13 Explain evaporation in terms of the escape of
more-energetic molecules from the surface of a
liquid
14 Relate evaporation to the consequent cooling of 15 Demonstrate an understanding of how
the liquid temperature, surface area and draught over a
surface influence evaporation
P3.2 Pressure changes

Supplement
1 Describe qualitatively, in terms of molecules, the
effect on the pressure of a gas of:
– a change of temperature at constant volume
– a change of volume at constant temperature

0654 Physics
P3.3 Matter and thermal properties
Core Supplement
1 Describe qualitatively the thermal expansion of 2 Explain in terms of the motion and arrangement
solids, liquids and gases at constant pressure of molecules, the relative order of the magnitude
of the expansion of solids, liquids and gases
3 Identify and explain some of the everyday
applications and consequences of thermal
expansion
P3.4 Measurement of temperature

Core Supplement
1 Describe how a physical property that varies with 2 Demonstrate understanding of sensitivity, range
temperature may be used for the measurement and linearity
of temperature, and state examples of such 3 Describe the structure of a thermocouple and
properties show understanding of its use as a thermometer
for measuring high temperatures and those that
vary rapidly
4 Recognise the need for and identify fixed points 5 Describe and explain how the structure of
a liquid-in-glass thermometer relates to its
sensitivity, range and linearity
6 Describe and explain the structure and action of
liquid-in-glass thermometers
P3.5 Thermal processes

P3.5.1 Conduction
Core Supplement
1 Recognise and name typical good and bad
thermal conductors
2 Describe experiments to demonstrate the 3 Explain conduction in solids in terms of molecular
properties of good and bad thermal conductors vibrations and transfer by electrons
P3.5.2 Convection
Core Supplement
1 Recognise convection as the main method of 2 Relate convection in fluids to density changes
energy transfer in fluids
3 Interpret and describe experiments designed to
illustrate convection in liquids and gases (fluids)

0654 Physics
P3.5 Thermal processes continued
P3.5.3 Radiation
Core Supplement
1 Recognise radiation as the method of energy
transfer that does not require a medium to travel
through
2 Identify infrared radiation as the part of the 3 Describe the effect of surface colour (black
electromagnetic spectrum often involved in or white) and texture (dull or shiny) on the
energy transfer by radiation emission, absorption and reflection of radiation
4 Interpret and describe experiments to investigate
the properties of good and bad emitters and
good and bad absorbers of infrared radiation
P3.5.4 Consequences of energy transfer

Core
1 Identify and explain some of the everyday
applications and consequences of conduction,
convection and radiation
P4 Properties of waves, including light and sound

P4.1 General wave properties
Core Supplement
1 Demonstrate understanding that waves transfer
energy without transferring matter
2 Describe what is meant by wave motion as
illustrated by vibration in ropes and springs and
by experiments using water waves
3 Use the term wavefront
4 State the meaning of speed, frequency, 5 Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal
wavelength and amplitude waves and give suitable examples
6 Describe how waves can undergo: 7 Recall and use the equation v = f λ
– reflection at a plane surface 8 Understand that refraction is caused by a change
– refraction due to a change of speed in speed as a wave moves from one medium to
another
9 Describe how waves can undergo diffraction
through a narrow gap
10 Describe the use of water waves to demonstrate
diffraction

0654 Physics
P4.2 Light
P4.2.1 Reflection of light
Core
1 Describe the formation of an optical image by a
plane mirror and give its characteristics
2 Recall and use the law:
angle of incidence i = angle of reflection r
recognising these angles are measured to the
normal
3 Perform simple constructions, measurements and
calculations for reflection by plane mirrors
P4.2.2 Refraction of light

Core Supplement
1 Interpret and describe an experimental 2 Recall and use the definition of refractive index n
demonstration of the refraction of light in terms of speed
3 Use the terminology for the angle of incidence i 4 Recall and use the equation for refractive index
and angle of refraction r and describe the passage sin i
=n
of light through parallel-sided transparent sin r
material 5 Describe internal and total internal reflection
using ray diagrams
6 Give the meaning of critical angle
7 Describe and explain the action of optical fibres
particularly in medicine and communications
technology
P4.2.3 Thin converging lens

Core Supplement
1 Describe the action of a thin converging lens on a
beam of light
2 Use the terms principal focus and focal length
3 Draw ray diagrams for the formation of a real
image by a single lens
4 Describe the nature of an image using the terms 5 Describe the difference between a real image and
enlarged / same size / diminished and upright / a virtual image
inverted 6 Use and describe the use of a single lens as a
magnifying glass

0654 Physics
P4.3 Electromagnetic spectrum
Core Supplement
1 Describe the main features of the
electromagnetic spectrum in order of frequency,
from radio waves to gamma-radiation (γ)
2 State that all electromagnetic waves travel 3 State that the speed of electromagnetic waves in
with the same high speed in a vacuum and a vacuum is 3.0 × 108 m / s
approximately the same in air
4 Describe typical properties and uses of radiations
in all the different regions of the electromagnetic
spectrum including:
– radio and television communications (radio
waves)
– satellite television and telephones
(microwaves)
– electrical appliances, remote controllers for
televisions and intruder alarms (infrared)
– medicine and security (X-rays)
5 Demonstrate an understanding of safety issues
regarding the use of microwaves and X-rays
6 State the dangers of ultraviolet radiation, from
the Sun or from tanning lamps
P4.4 Sound
Core Supplement
1 Describe the production of sound by vibrating 2 Describe the longitudinal nature of sound waves
sources
3 Describe the transmission of sound waves in air
in terms of compressions and rarefactions
4 State that the approximate range of audible
frequencies for a healthy human ear is 20 Hz to
20 000 Hz
5 Show an understanding that a medium is needed
to transmit sound waves
6 Describe and interpret an experiment to 7 Recognise that sound travels faster in liquids than
determine the speed of sound in air, including gases and faster in solids than in liquids
calculation
8 Relate the loudness and pitch of sound waves to
amplitude and frequency
9 Describe how the reflection of sound may
produce an echo

0654 Physics
P5 Electricity and magnetism
P5.1 Simple phenomena of magnetism
Core Supplement
1 Describe the forces between magnets, and 2 Give an account of induced magnetism
between magnets and magnetic materials
3 Draw and describe the pattern and direction of
magnetic field lines around a bar magnet
4 Distinguish between the magnetic properties of
soft iron and steel
5 Distinguish between the design and use of
permanent magnets and electromagnets
6 Describe methods of magnetisation to include
stroking with a magnet, use of direct current
(d.c.) in a coil and hammering in a magnetic field
P5.2 Electrical quantities

P5.2.1 Electric charge
Core Supplement
1 State that there are positive and negative charges
2 State that unlike charges attract and that like
charges repel
3 Describe and interpret simple experiments
to show the production and detection of
electrostatic charges by friction
4 State that charging a body involves the addition 5 Describe an electric field as a region in which an
or removal of electrons electric charge experiences a force
6 Distinguish between electrical conductors and
insulators and give typical examples

0654 Physics
P5.2 Electrical quantities continued
P5.2.2 Current, potential difference and electromotive force (e.m.f.)
Core Supplement
1 Demonstrate understanding of current, potential
difference, e.m.f. and resistance
2 State that current is related to the flow of charge 3 Show understanding that a current is a rate of
flow of charge and recall and use the equation
4 State that current in metals is due to a flow of I = Q/t
electrons
5 State that the potential difference (p.d.) across a
circuit component is measured in volts
6 Use and describe the use of an ammeter and a
voltmeter, both analogue and digital
7 State that the electromotive force (e.m.f) of an 8 Show understanding that e.m.f. is defined in
electrical source of energy is measured in volts terms of energy supplied by a source in driving
charge around a complete circuit
P5.2.3 Resistance
Core Supplement
1 State that resistance = p.d. / current and 2 Sketch and explain the current–voltage
understand qualitatively how changes in p.d. or characteristic of an ohmic resistor and a filament
resistance affect current lamp
3 Recall and use the equation R = V / I 4 Recall and use quantitatively the proportionality
between resistance and length, and the inverse
proportionality between resistance and cross-
sectional area of a wire
P6 Electric circuits
P6.1 Circuit diagrams
Core
1 Draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing
sources, switches, resistors (fixed and variable),
lamps, ammeters, voltmeters and fuses
(Symbols for other common circuit components
will be provided in questions.)

0654 Physics
P6.2 Series and parallel circuits
Core Supplement
1 Understand that the current at every point in a
series circuit is the same
2 Calculate the combined resistance of two or 3 Recall and use the fact that the sum of the p.d.s
more resistors in series across the components in a series circuit is equal
to the total p.d. across the supply
4 State that, for a parallel circuit, the current from 5 Recall and use the fact that the current from the
the source is larger than the current in each source is the sum of the currents in the separate
branch branches of a parallel circuit
6 State that the combined resistance of two 7 Calculate the combined resistance of two
resistors in parallel is less than that of either resistors in parallel
resistor by itself
8 State the advantages of connecting lamps in 9 Draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing
parallel in a circuit NTC thermistors and light-dependent resistors
(LDRs)
10 Describe the action of NTC thermistors and LDRs
and show understanding of their use as input
transducers
P6.3 Electrical energy

Supplement
1 Recall and use the equations P = IV and E = IVt
P6.4 Dangers of electricity

Core
1 Identify electrical hazards including:
– damaged insulation
– overheating of cables
– damp conditions
2 State that a fuse protects a circuit
3 Explain the use of fuses and choose appropriate
fuse ratings

0654 Physics
P7 Electromagnetic effects
P7.1 Magnetic effect of an electric current
Core Supplement
1 Describe the pattern of the magnetic field 2 Describe the effect on the magnetic field of
(including direction) due to currents in straight changing the magnitude and direction of the
wires and in solenoids current
P7.2 Force on a current-carrying conductor

Core Supplement
1 Describe an experiment to show that a force acts 2 State and use the relative directions of force,
on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field and current
field, including the effect of reversing:
– the current
– the direction of the field
P7.3 d.c. motor

Core Supplement
1 State that a current-carrying coil in a magnetic 2 Relate this turning effect to the action of an
field experiences a turning effect and that the electric motor including the action of a split-ring
effect is increased by: commutator
– increasing the number of turns on the coil
– increasing the current
– increasing the strength of the magnetic field
P7.4 Electromagnetic induction

Supplement
1 Show understanding that a conductor moving
across a magnetic field or a changing magnetic
field linking with a conductor can induce an e.m.f.
in the conductor
2 State the factors affecting the magnitude of an
induced e.m.f.
P7.5 a.c. generator

Supplement
1 Distinguish between direct current (d.c) and
alternating current (a.c)
2 Describe and explain the operation of a rotating-
coil generator and the use of slip rings
3 Sketch a graph of voltage output against time for
a simple a.c. generator

0654 Physics
P7.6 Transformer
Supplement
1 Describe the construction of a basic transformer
with a soft-iron core, as used for voltage
transformations
2 Describe the principle of operation of a
transformer
3 Use the terms step-up and step-down
4 Recall and use the equation
(Vp / Vs) = (Np / Ns) (for 100% efficiency)
5 Describe the use of the transformer in high-
voltage transmission of electricity
6 Recall and use the equation
Ip Vp = Is Vs (for 100% efficiency)
7 Explain why power losses in cables are lower
when the voltage is high
P8 Atomic physics
P8.1 The nuclear atom
Core
1 Describe the composition of the nucleus in terms
of protons and neutrons
2 Use the terms proton number Z and nucleon
number A
3 Use and explain the term isotope
4 Use and interpret the term nuclide and use the
A
nuclide notation Z X

0654 Physics
P8.2 Radioactivity
P8.2.1 Characteristics of the three kinds of emission
Core Supplement
1 Describe the random nature of radioactive
emission
2 Identify alpha (α)-, beta (β)- and gamma (γ)- 3 Describe the deflection of α-particles, β-particles
emissions by recalling and γ-rays in electric fields and in magnetic fields
– their nature
– their relative ionising effects
– their relative penetrating abilities
+
(β are not included: β-particles will be taken to
refer to β–)
4 Recognise the general term ionising radiation can 5 Describe and explain examples of practical
be used to describe radioactive emissions applications of α-, β- and γ-emissions
P8.2.2 Detection of radioactivity

Core
1 Demonstrate understanding of background
radiation
2 Describe the detection of α-particles, β-particles
and γ-rays
P8.2.3 Radioactive decay

Core Supplement
1 State the meaning of radioactive decay
2 Use word equations to represent changes in the 3 Use nuclide notation in equations to show α- and
composition of the nucleus when particles are β-decay
emitted
P8.2.4 Half-life
Core
1 Use the term half-life in simple calculations
which may involve information in tables or decay
curves

0654 Physics
P8.2 Radioactivity continued
P8.2.5 Safety precautions
Core
1 Recall the effects of ionising radiations on living
things
2 Describe how radioactive materials are handled,
used and stored in a safe way

Things To Learn in 0654 Syllabus 2023 & 2024

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Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award) 0654 syllabus for 2023 and 2024.

12 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

B2.2 Movement in and out of cells

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4 Explain that chlorophyll transfers light energy

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18 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

5 State the pathway taken by water through root,

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20 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

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22 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

B9.2 Sense organs

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26 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

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28 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

B11.3 Monohybrid inheritance

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30 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

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32 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C2.2 Criteria of purity

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C3 Atoms, elements and compounds

C3.2 Elements, compounds and mixtures

34 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

Note: a copy of the Periodic Table, as shown in the

C3.4 Ions and ionic bonds

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36 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C5 Electricity and chemistry

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Note: Candidates should be encouraged to use the

38 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C8 Acids, bases and salts

C8.2 Types of oxides

C8.3 Preparation of salts

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C9 The Periodic Table

C9.2 Periodic trends

40 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C9.4 Transition elements

C9.5 Noble gases

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C10.2 Reactivity series

C10.3 Extraction of metals from their ores

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C11 Air and water

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C11.3 Carbon dioxide and methane

44 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C14 Organic chemistry

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C14.3 Homologous series

46 www.cambridgeinternational.org/igcse Back to contents page

C14.8 Synthetic polymers