IB DP Biology D2.2 Gene Expression Teaching Notes & PowerPoint 2026

A Helpful Resource for Teaching Gene Expression in IB DP Biology

This resource covers the Gene Expression (D2.2) topic from the IB Diploma Programme Biology course. It is designed for dual use: as supplemental teaching notes for instructors and as complete revision material for students.

What Makes This Resource Useful for Biology Teachers

Follows the Subject Guide Directly
The content is structured in full alignment with the IB Biology subject guide, ensuring that all required assessment statements related to transcription, translation, and regulation of gene expression are addressed in sequence. Teachers can follow a clear progression from the relationship between genotype and phenotype to detailed regulatory mechanisms, ensuring full syllabus coverage.

Helpful for New Teachers
This resource provides a clear and practical overview of gene expression as a fundamental molecular process. It explains how genetic information is transcribed and translated, how regulation occurs at multiple levels, and how differential gene expression underpins cell structure and function. Each section includes clear explanations, labelled diagrams, examples, and discussion prompts to make lessons engaging and easy to teach.

Designed for Dual Use
The resource functions both as a teacher’s guide for lesson delivery and a student revision tool. The level of detail is concise enough for independent study while remaining sufficiently thorough for assessment preparation.

Editable PowerPoint Version Included
Alongside the printable PDF teaching notes, an editable PowerPoint presentation is included so teachers can adapt slides, incorporate media, and tailor content to suit classroom, online, or blended learning environments.

Content Included

Resource Length:

40 pages of structured teaching notes (PDF)

Editable PowerPoint presentation covering the same content

Topic Coverage:

The relationship between genotype, gene expression, and phenotype

Transcription and RNA processing

Translation and ribosomal function

Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes

Promoters, enhancers, and transcription factors

Post-transcriptional regulation and alternative splicing

Epigenetic influences on gene expression

Chromatin structure and gene accessibility

Labelled diagrams and visual models

Practice prompts and example questions

The resource includes visuals, regulatory flow diagrams, and data-based practice questions that connect molecular theory to real biological systems. Higher Level content, including epigenetic regulation and complex control mechanisms, is clearly indicated throughout.

This is a clear, accessible resource that supports both effective teaching and confident student revision for IB Biology assessments.