BIOLOGY FORM TWO NATIONAL ASSESSMENT (FTNA) FORMAT

BIOLOGY FORM TWO NATIONAL ASSESSMENT (FTNA) FORMAT

033 BIOLOGY

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Biology Assessment Format is a revised version of the format issued by the National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) in 2007.

The format is based on the Biology Syllabus for Ordinary Secondary Education issued in 2005 by the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.

Changes made involve the improvement of the assessment rubric and the inclusion of a table of specifications – there is no change in the assessment content.

2.0 GENERAL OBJECTIVES

The assessment will test the extent to which the students are able to:

2.1 evaluate the role, influence and importance of biological science in everyday life;

2.2 develop the capacity to improve and maintain their own health of families and the community;

2.3 develop mastery of fundamental concepts, principles and skills of biological science and related fields such as agriculture, medicine, pharmacy and veterinary;

2.4 develop necessary biological practical skills;

2.5 apply scientific skills and procedures in interpreting biological data;

2.6 acquire basic knowledge and apply appropriate skills in combating problems related to HIV/AIDS/STIs and the environment; and

2.7 develop the ability and desire for self-study, self-confidence, and self-advancement in biological sciences and related fields.

3.0 GENERAL COMPETENCIES

The assessment will test the students’ ability to:

3.1 demonstrate appropriate use of biological knowledge, concepts, skills and principles in solving various problems in daily life;

3.2 record, analyse and interpret data from scientific investigations using appropriate methods and techniques to generate relevant information in biological science;

3.3 apply knowledge and skills in combating health-related problems such as HIV/AIDS/STIs, gender, population and environment, sexual and reproductive health; and

3.4 use relevant information on biological science and related fields for self-study and lifelong learning.

4.0 ASSESSMENT RUBRIC

The Biology assessment will comprise one (1) theory paper, which will take 2 hours. The paper will consist of three sections, namely A, B and C, with a total of 10 questions.

Students will be required to answer all questions in each section. The paper will weigh a total of 100 marks.

Section A will consist of two (2) objective questions. Question 1 will be a multiple-choice question, consisting of 10 items.

Each item will carry one (1) mark, making a total of 10 marks. Question 2 will be a matching items question, consisting of five (5) items.

Each item will carry one (1) mark, making a total of five (5) marks. Therefore, the section will weigh a total of 15 marks.

Section B will have seven (7) short answer questions. Each question will carry 10 marks, making a total of 70 marks.

Section C will have one (1) essay question, which will weigh 15 marks.

5.0 ASSESSMENT CONTENTS

The following topics will be assessed:

5.1 Introduction to Biology

5.2 Safety in our environment

5.3 Health and immunity

5.4 Cell structure and organisation

5.5 Classification of living things

5.6 Nutrition

5.7 Balance of nature

5.8 Transport of materials in living things

5.9 Gaseous exchange and respiration