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10 Must-Have VCE Biology Units 1 and 2 Practice Questions

Are you ready to conquer VCE Biology this year? Here are 10 practice questions you need to set yourself up for triumph.

Written by:
Matrix Education
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The VCE Biology exams test your understanding of key concepts, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking. Success comes from building a strong foundation and practising how to apply what you’ve learned, not from cramming. To do well in Year 11 VCE Biology, it’s important to improve your logical reasoning and problem-solving capabilities by practising as much as possible. 

To enhance your study, we’ve put together 10 essential Biology units 1 and 2 practice questions. These questions focus on tricky topics like homeostasis, cell requirements, and apoptosis while helping you improve your problem-solving skills.

Before you download the full guide with all the expert tips and solutions, here’s a quick look at what’s inside…

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This VCE Biology Units 1 and 2 study guide covers:

Free VCE Biology Units 1 & 2 Worksheet Download

Test your knowledge with essential practice questions for VCE Biology Units 1 & 2.

Download now

Key areas for success in VCE Biology Units 1 and 2

For a successful year in VCE Biology, focus on these three fundamental areas:

  1. Grasping key concepts: Build a strong understanding of essential topics (like cell structures, biological systems, and processes) through consistent revision and engaging quizzes.
  2. Learning problem-solving strategies: Consistently practise solving complex problems and reflect on your mistakes to make improvements.
  3. Applying your knowledge: Use your understanding of basic concepts to critically evaluate new and challenging topics.

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The most challenging VCE Biology topics (and how to tackle them)

Certain topics in VCE Biology tend to trip students up. Here are some common areas of difficulty and tips to overcome them:

  • Homeostasis: Understanding various examples involving maintaining a stable internal environment. 
    • Tip: Practice feedback loop diagrams and focus on examples like temperature and glucose regulation.
  • Animal and plant systems: The specific details of each system and their functions in the broader biological systems in place.
    • Tip: Use diagrams and mind maps to link systems to their roles in homeostasis. Practice explaining these systems in your own words to solidify your understanding.
  • Microscopy and cell measurement: Understanding how to measure the field of view (FOV), and, consequently, the cell size. 
    • Tip: Practice FOV and cell size calculations with sample problems and tutorials.
  • Apoptosis: Understanding the importance of cell self-destruction in the longevity of organisms. 
    • Tip: Break down apoptosis into its stages and use specific examples like cancer prevention for context, and anologies for understanding.
  • Cell requirements: What cells want and need to survive and work efficiently. 
    • Tip: Make a checklist of cell needs and relate them to processes like diffusion and respiration. Use case studies to understand how cells fulfil these needs.

How to maximise your study sessions

  • Focus on understanding key concepts, not just memorising facts.
  • Break down complex topics into smaller, manageable parts.
  • Use tools like diagrams, summaries, and practice questions to reinforce learning.
  • Set a regular study schedule to balance revision with new material.
  • Seek feedback from teachers, classmates, or study groups to clarify doubts.
  • Stay consistent and maintain a curious, positive mindset.

Sample practice questions (+ quick tips)

Ready to put your knowledge to the test? Try these sample questions from the VCE Biology Units 1 and 2 Practice worksheet

Question 1

  1. Describe the process of apoptosis and its importance in maintaining cellular health. Explain what might happen if apoptosis is dysregulated. (5 marks)

Tip: Revise apoptosis through diagrams and step-by-step break downs. Reflect on its role in maintaining the longevity of organisms by linking examples of dysregulation (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative diseases).

Question 2

  1. You are observing a cell under a light microscope with a total magnification of 400x. The field of view has a diameter of 0.5 mm. If a cell takes up approximately 25% of the field of view, calculate the actual size of the cell in micrometres (µm). (2 marks)

Tip: Use quizzes and practice problems to refine cell measurement skills. Learn to calculate field of view (FOV) and use proportions to determine cell size accurately.

Want to see the answers to these two sample questions, and the full list of questions? Below, download our free VCE Biology Units 1 and 2 practice worksheet for step-by-step solutions and expert tips to help you master these questions.

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Want more challenging VCE Biology questions?

Simply fill out this form, and we’ll send the VCE Biology units 1 and 2 practice questions straight to your inbox.

Free VCE Biology Units 1 & 2 Worksheet Download

Test your knowledge with essential practice questions for VCE Biology Units 1 & 2.

Download now

Written by Matrix Education

Matrix is Sydney's No.1 High School Tuition provider. Come read our blog regularly for study hacks, subject breakdowns, and all the other academic insights you need.

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