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Biology journal Cambridge IGCSE 0610

Topic 18 of 21 · 2 modules planned

Variation and selection

Why individuals differ and how natural and artificial selection change populations.

Modules

  1. Module 1 · syllabus 18.1

    Variation and mutation

    Why are no two individuals exactly alike?

    This module is planned. It will have readings, an experiment, practice with self-checks and a final check.

Syllabus statements for this topic · for teachers · 19 statements

Core for every pupil · Supplement also for Extended entry. Paraphrased from the Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 syllabus (2026–2028); check the official syllabus for exact wording.

18.1 Variation

  • 18.1.1Variation within a speciesC
  • 18.1.2Continuous variationC
  • 18.1.3Discontinuous variationC
  • 18.1.4Genetic and environmental causes of variationC
  • 18.1.5Investigate continuous and discontinuous variationC
  • 18.1.6Mutation as genetic changeC
  • 18.1.7Mutation forms new allelesC
  • 18.1.8Ionising radiation and chemicals raise mutation rateC
  • 18.1.9Gene mutation: random base sequence changeS
  • 18.1.10Sources of genetic variation in populationsS

18.2 Adaptive features

  • 18.2.1Adaptive feature definedC
  • 18.2.2Describe adaptive features from images or dataC
  • 18.2.3Adaptations of hydrophytes and xerophytesS

18.3 Selection

  • 18.3.1Natural selectionC
  • 18.3.2Selective breedingC
  • 18.3.3Artificial selection over many generationsC
  • 18.3.4Adaptation as a result of natural selectionS
  • 18.3.5Antibiotic resistance as natural selectionS
  • 18.3.6Natural versus artificial selectionS