Biology Paper 2 WASSCE (PC 2ND), 2018

CANDIDATES' WEAKNESSES AND SUGGESTED REMEDIES

 

The observed weaknesses of the candidates include:

  • inability of candidates to follow the rules of drawing;
  • using wooly guidelines for labels;
  • diagrams not drawn to size;
  • not writing titles for the diagrams drawn;
  • not using the sign X to indicate crossing in genetics;
  • not using correct crossing to give the correct offspring;
  • wrong spellings of biological names, technical terms, one-word answers;
  • inability to relate function to structure;
  • inability to present points in a coherent order;
  • use of poor grammar to express explanation of terms;
  • observed weaknesses in the question on the nitrogen cycle;
  • inability to name up to four scientists that contributed to the Cell Theory.

 

The following remedies were proffered to overcome the weaknesses:

  • candidates should practice how to make good diagrams;
  • candidates should be abreast with the functions of parts of organisms and their adaptive features;
  • standard text books should be used to study;
  • candidates should cover the syllabus before taking the examinations;
  • candidates should improve on their written English;
  • candidates should try as much as possible to spell properly;
  • candidates should read and understand a question properly before attempting it;
  • candidates should read and adhere to instructions;
  • candidates should study past questions and Chief Examiner’s Report;
  • candidates should avoid copying answers;
  • the general principles and terms used in Biology should be studied with practical examples.