Suppose you are preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, and Biology is one of your chosen subjects. In that case, this guide provides detailed information on the JAMB Biology syllabus for 2025/2026. Biology is a popular subject among candidates aspiring to study medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and other life sciences. To excel in the JAMB Biology exam, it is essential to understand the syllabus thoroughly, as it outlines the topics, objectives, and recommended textbooks for effective preparation.
The JAMB Biology syllabus serves as an official document that defines the scope and content of the exam. It is designed to help candidates achieve specific learning objectives, such as understanding the diversity of life, the continuity of life through reproduction and evolution, and the application of biological principles to real-life situations. Additionally, the syllabus emphasizes the impact of human activities and technological advancements on the environment and living organisms.
The syllabus is divided into four main sections, covering 30 topics. Below is a breakdown of the sections and their respective topics:
SECTION A: Variety of Organisms
This section focuses on the diversity of living organisms and their evolutionary adaptations. Key topics include:
Living Organisms: Characteristics, cell structure, and levels of organization (cell, tissue, organ, system, organism).
Evolution: Classification of organisms into Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia, with examples like bacteria, amoeba, mushrooms, ferns, and mammals.
Adaptations: Structural, functional, and behavioural adaptations of organisms to their environments, such as camouflage, social behaviour, and survival mechanisms.
SECTION B: Form and Functions
This section delves into the internal structures and physiological processes of plants and animals. Topics include:
Internal Structure: Anatomy of flowering plants (roots, stems, leaves) and mammals.
Nutrition: Modes of nutrition (autotrophic and heterotrophic), photosynthesis, food tests, and the mammalian digestive system.
Transport: Circulatory systems in animals and vascular systems in plants, including the mechanisms of transportation like diffusion and osmosis.
Respiration: Respiratory organs, gaseous exchange, and the processes of aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
Excretion: Excretory structures and mechanisms in plants and animals, including the role of kidneys, lungs, and skin.
Support and Movement: Tropic and nastic movements in plants, skeletal systems in animals, and the functions of the skeleton.
Reproduction: Asexual and sexual reproduction in plants and animals, including pollination, fertilization, and development.
Growth: Germination of seeds and conditions necessary for growth.
Coordination and Control: Nervous and hormonal systems in animals, plant hormones, and homeostasis.
SECTION C: Ecology
This section explores the interactions between organisms and their environments. Topics include:
Factors Affecting Distribution: Abiotic (temperature, rainfall, pH) and biotic factors (competition, predation).
Symbiotic Interactions: Relationships like mutualism, parasitism, and commensalism, as well as energy flow in ecosystems through food chains and webs.
Natural Habitats: Aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, including ponds, forests, and savannas.
Local Biomes: Nigerian biomes such as tropical rainforests, savannas, and deserts.
Population Ecology: Population density, competition, succession, and factors affecting population size.
Soil: Characteristics, components, and methods of maintaining soil fertility.
Humans and Environment: Diseases, pollution, conservation of natural resources, and the role of national parks.
SECTION D: Heredity and Variations
This section covers genetic principles and evolutionary theories. Topics include:
Variation in Population: Causes and types of variation.
Heredity: Mendelian genetics, inheritance patterns, and chromosomal theory.
Evolution: Theories of evolution (e.g., Darwinism) and evidence supporting evolution.
General Objectives of the JAMB Biology Syllabus
The JAMB Biology syllabus aims to:
Equip candidates with a solid understanding of biological concepts and principles.
Enable candidates to apply biological knowledge to everyday life, particularly in areas affecting health, society, and the environment.
Prepare candidates for higher education in life sciences and related fields.
How to Use the JAMB Biology Syllabus
Study the Topics: Focus on each topic and its specific objectives to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Use Recommended Textbooks: Refer to the textbooks listed in the syllabus for in-depth understanding.
Practice Past Questions: Solve past JAMB Biology questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Focus on Key Areas: Pay special attention to high-weight topics like ecology, genetics, and human physiology.
Conclusion
The JAMB Biology syllabus for 2025/2026 is a vital resource for candidates aiming to excel in the exam. By following the syllabus, utilizing recommended textbooks, and practising consistently, you can build a strong foundation in Biology and achieve your desired score. For a detailed PDF version of the syllabus, visit the official JAMB website or trusted educational platforms.