GCSE Adaptations, Interdependence, Competition

This comprehensive revision resource covers the Adaptations, Interdependence and Competition topic from the AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology specification. Designed as an accessible comprehension activity, it provides clear, student‑friendly revision notes followed by 15 exam‑style questions with a complete model‑answer mark scheme included.

Topics covered:

The structure and stability of biological communities and ecosystems, including how interdependence (pollination, seed dispersal, nutrient recycling, food webs) maintains balance in natural systems.
The effects of abiotic factors such as light, moisture, temperature, soil pH and mineral content, and the impact of biotic factors including predators, competition and disease on distribution and abundance of organisms.
Ecology sampling methods, including quadrats, random sampling, transects, percentage cover, calculating means, improving reliability, and key elements of the required practical.
Competition in animals for food, territory and mates, with examples of adaptations that improve survival and reproductive success.
Competition in plants for light, water, minerals, carbon dioxide and space, including examples of structural and chemical adaptations.
Adaptations for survival, including structural, behavioural and physiological features in plants and animals, such as those seen in desert, arctic and aquatic environments.
Extremophiles and how they survive in conditions of extreme temperature, salinity, pressure or pH.

What’s included:

A full Word document containing structured revision notes and 15 exam‑style comprehension questions aligned with the AQA ecology required practical.
A separate Word mark scheme document with complete model answers and clear marking guidance.
A glossary of key scientific terms to support accessibility, independence and scientific literacy.

Perfect for:

GCSE Combined Science Biology (suitable for both Foundation and Higher students)
Retrieval practice, revision lessons, homework tasks and intervention sessions
Pre‑assessment preparation and independent study