The Biology Practical can boost or break your overall Biology grade. Many students lose marks on drawings, labelling, and poor observation notes. This guide shows exactly how examiners award marks and how to prepare for WAEC 2026 specimens.
What Examiners Look For
- Accurate, neat biological drawings (clear lines, no shading).
- Correct labels placed on straight rulers lines, not crossing.
- Relevant observations written in concise bullet points.
- Measurements with units where required.
Drawing Rules That Earn Marks
✅ Use Pencil and Ruler
Always draw with HB pencil. Use a ruler for label lines; keep lines horizontal.
✅ No Shading
Use single, clean outlines. Shading loses marks; use stippling if texture is needed.
✅ Proportion Matters
Draw large enough to label clearly (at least 10 cm major axis). Keep parts proportionate.
4-Step Observation Method
- Look: Identify colour, texture, shape.
- Measure: Length/width with ruler; record units.
- Compare: Note similarities/differences between specimens A and B.
- Record: Write short bullet observations, not long paragraphs.
Likely 2026 Specimen Themes
Plant Specimens
Leaves, stems, roots; look for venation type, leaf arrangement, presence of petiole.
Animal Specimens
Insects, fish, frog parts; focus on symmetry, appendages, segmentation.
Microscopy
Slides of onion cells, cheek cells; know how to calculate magnification (Image/Actual).
Food Tests
Reducing sugar (Benedict’s), starch (iodine), protein (biuret), fats (emulsion test).
Marking Scheme Secrets
Drawings
- Title with magnification if given.
- Clean outline, no shading, labels on the right side preferred.
- Minimum number of labels (usually 6–8) relevant to question.
Observations
- Write in present tense (“Specimen A has…â€).
- Cover colour, texture, shape, size, special features.
- Be concise: 1 line per point.
Practical Day Checklist
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Shading Drawings
Use single lines; shading loses marks.
Label Lines Crossing
Keep lines parallel and non-intersecting.
Paragraph Observations
Use bullet points for clarity and speed.
Secure Easy Practical Marks
Biology Practical marks are predictable. If you draw neatly, label correctly, and write concise observations, you’ll secure most of the available marks.
🚀 Practice Practical Questions
Use our Biology practical bank with specimen-based questions and marking guide tips.
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