Biology 9700: Practical Notes [top]
If you are taking Cambridge International A-Level Biology (9700), you already know the truth:
Use a digital colorimeter instead of a manual color match to eliminate human bias.
Paper 3 is a two-hour laboratory-based exam typically consisting of two questions. Important tips to help you ace paper 3 - clearer recording biology 9700 practical notes
If you are a Cambridge A-Level Biology student, you know the drill. You walk into the lab, see the unfamiliar specimens, the mysterious solution "X," and a ruler that somehow feels intimidating.
Join points with straight lines (ruled) unless a "best-fit" line is specifically requested. Circle outliers if they are clearly anomalous. ⚠️ Identifying Variables and Errors You will be asked to critique your experiment. Be specific. If you are taking Cambridge International A-Level Biology
Do you need assistance with like the Chi-squared or Student's t-test? Share public link
You must be able to confidently use a microscope. This involves starting with the (e.g., 4x) to locate your specimen, using the coarse focus knob to bring it into view, and then centering the specimen before switching to a higher power. You should also know how to adjust the iris diaphragm to control the amount of light and increase contrast. You walk into the lab, see the unfamiliar
Use a colorimeter to measure absorbance/transmission or use a color chart (e.g., starch disappearance using amylase). Mass Loss: Track mass loss on a digital balance over time. Controlling Variables
Keep your test tubes visible until you finish writing your answers. You may notice a late color change or sedimentation that alters your conclusion.
You must know the reagents and the specific color changes for biological molecules. 🍱 The Big Four Tests