NCEA L1 ChemBio
NCEA Level 1 Chemistry and Biology
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
Chemistry and Biology is a subject on the New Zealand Curriculum, offered through NCEA at Level 1 only. It is a combined subject: it brings together the study of the properties of substances and how they change, and the scientific study of living things and the interconnectedness of life forms and the environment. It is intended for Year 11 learners working towards NCEA Level 1 who want to keep both science strands open rather than specialising early. Because it replaces the separate Level 1 Chemistry and Biology subjects, which NZQA states are no longer available at that level, candidates should check the Chemistry and Biology subject page and the Level 1 assessment matrix on NCEA.education for the standards that make up their programme. Assessment combines internal work, judged against exemplars and clarified by national moderation, with external assessment in the exam timetable. To prepare, work through the assessment matrix to see which standards you will attempt, use the exemplars and moderator reports to understand what evidence earns each grade, and confirm the exam timetable and candidate information sheet before the external sessions. This page is independent study support and is not affiliated with NZQA.
What you'll study
About NCEA L1 ChemBio preparation
What is Chemistry and Biology and who is it for?
It is a new subject on the New Zealand Curriculum combining the study of substances and their changes with the study of living things and their environment. It is available at Level 1 only, so it suits learners in their first NCEA year who want both science strands.
Can I still take Level 1 Chemistry or Level 1 Biology separately?
No. NZQA states that Chemistry is no longer available at Level 1 and Biology is no longer available at NCEA Level 1. Both are replaced by the Chemistry and Biology subject, which is offered at Level 1 only.
Is Chemistry and Biology offered at Level 2 or Level 3?
No. The subject is available at Level 1 only. Separate Chemistry and Biology standards continue at Levels 2 and 3, with their own assessment specifications, exemplars and past exams, so plan your Level 2 and 3 choices with those subject pages.
How is the subject assessed?
Through a mix of internal assessment and external assessment (exams), as with other NCEA subjects. The exact standards for your programme are listed in the Level 1 assessment matrix on NCEA.education. Internal results are supported by exemplars, clarifications and the national moderator's report.
How do I find out which standards I will be assessed against?
Use the Level 1 assessment matrix linked from both the Chemistry and Biology subject pages, which directs you to the Chemistry and Biology matrix on NCEA.education. Your teacher will confirm which standards your class is entered for.
When are the external exams and how long are they?
NZQA publishes an exam timetable and a candidate information sheet each year. Session dates and durations vary by standard, so check the timetable for your subjects rather than relying on second-hand dates, and confirm your entries and NZQA number in advance.
How should I order my study across the two halves?
Map the standards first, then split your time by credit value rather than by preference. Chemistry content rewards practice with calculations and nomenclature conventions listed in the exam papers; Biology rewards precise use of terminology and linking structure to function and environment.
What mistakes cost candidates the most marks?
Vague answers that describe instead of explain, missing units or incorrect symbols in chemistry working, and biology answers that name a structure without saying what it does. Read the exemplars and moderator reports to see how evidence is judged, and practise writing explanations rather than summaries.
Can I resit or retake assessment?
Internal standards can often be reassessed at your school's discretion, while external exams run once in the annual timetable. NZQA does not publish a general resit policy for this subject, so ask your teacher what applies to your specific standards.