Life Sciences Grade 12 Exam Guidelines and Scope for 2026: To excel in the Life Sciences Grade 12 final exams in 2026, learners must master a vast range of biological concepts, from the molecular level of DNA to the complexity of human homeostasis and evolution. While the official 2026 examination timetable will be released by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) later this year, the Exam Guidelines provide the definitive structure and weighting for your revision.
The assessment is split into two papers, each carrying 150 marks and lasting 2.5 hours. A strong focus on terminology, diagram analysis, and scientific method is essential for achieving a distinction.
Download Life Sciences Grade 12 Exam Guidelines (PDF)
Access the official guidelines and essential study aids to align your preparation with the 2026 requirements:
- Download Life Sciences Grade 12 Exam Guidelines 2025-2026 (English)
- Download 2026 Life Sciences Annual Teaching Plan (ATP)
For more support, including “Mind the Gap” study guides and past papers, visit the My Courses homepage or explore the Grade 12 Study Resources hub.
Paper 1 – Human and Plant Systems
Duration: 2.5 Hours | Total Marks: 150
Paper 1 focuses on how organisms—specifically humans and plants—respond to their environment and maintain internal balance.
Topics and Mark Allocation:
- Reproduction in Vertebrates (8 Marks): Strategies like ovipary, vivipary, and the amniotic egg.
- Human Reproduction (41 Marks): The male/female systems, menstrual cycle, fertilization, and pregnancy.
- Responding to the Environment – Humans (54 Marks): The nervous system, the human eye, and the human ear.
- Endocrine System and Homeostasis (34 Marks): Hormonal control and negative feedback loops (e.g., blood glucose, thermoregulation).
- Responding to the Environment – Plants (13 Marks): Plant hormones (Auxins, Gibberellins) and tropisms.
Paper 2 – Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Evolution
Duration: 2.5 Hours | Total Marks: 150
Paper 2 shifts the focus to the “code of life,” how traits are inherited, and the history of life on Earth.
Topics and Mark Allocation:
- DNA: Code of Life (27 Marks): DNA structure, replication, and protein synthesis (transcription and translation).
- Meiosis (21 Marks): The phases of meiosis and its importance in introducing genetic variation.
- Genetics and Inheritance (48 Marks): Monohybrid/dihybrid crosses, pedigrees, and genetic engineering.
- Evolution (54 Marks): Darwinism, Lamarckism, speciation, and human evolution (evidence from fossils).
Conclusion: Strategy for 2026 Success
The Life Sciences Grade 12 Exam Guidelines for 2026 emphasize that “Life Sciences is a language.” To secure a Level 7 (80%+):
- Master Terminology: Use flashcards for biological terms. Section A (50 marks) is almost entirely based on terminology.
- Practice Diagrams: Never just read a diagram; practice drawing and labeling them in pencil. Examiners often ask you to identify parts or explain functions based on a sketch.
- Scientific Method: Be ready to identify variables (independent, dependent, and controlled) and suggest ways to improve the reliability and validity of an experiment.
For continuous updates on the 2026 matric calendar and expert tips on tackling complex genetics problems, keep visiting My Courses.
How to get a DISTINCTION in life sciences This video provides a strategic overview of the paper structure and high-yield topics to help you maximize your marks in the final examinations.
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