With limited time and a heavy course load, you might be wondering which IB Biology Option is the easiest.
You know one of the course’s requirements is to choose an “Option” topic for further study, and of course, you want an option that piques your curiosity and doesn’t result in extra stress.
Which IB Biology Options are Available?
There are four Options out there, out of which you will need to choose one to specialise in.
Some schools, however, do not provide any choice. Instead, they opt to select one Option topic for the entire class.
The IB Biology Guide specifies the following Option topics:
- A: Neurobiology and Behaviour.
- B: Biotechnology and Bioinformatics.
- C: Ecology and Conservation.
- D: Human Physiology.
Each option has its own pros and cons. It all depends on your interests, skills, goals, and knowledge acquired prior. There is no definitive answer to which IB Option is the easiest.
Some students say Option C is easiest as it is an extension of the Ecology topic you have already studies. However, if Ecology is not your strong suit you will not find it easy!
Having said that, we are happy to provide some factors to consider before you make a decision.
With a PhD in Microbiology, Dipa is a qualified IB Biology & Chemistry Teacher. She is a committed, and innovative Science and Maths teacher. Dipa has been teaching for 8 years alongside her Scientific Research. She teaches Middle School, IGCSE & IB Diploma Maths & Sciences. She also helps support students with their Internal Assessments.
Miltiadis
Miltiadis has a PHd in Biology and has been teaching IB Biology and ESS for the last 15 years and is currently the IB co-ordinator at an International school in Greece. Miltiadis is also an EE moderator and teaches iGCSE Biology. 
Phil
A certified teacher with a PGCE in Secondary Biology with General Science, Phil has been teaching all 3 Sciences at IGCSE level for over 20 years. He also teaches Chemistry and Biology to IB and A Level. Phil is a truly international educator having worked in international schools in Malaysia, China, Qatar, Germany, France as well as in the UK. 
Maite
Maite graduated from the university of Brunel with an MSc in Environmental Management and Policy. She has taught Biology and ESS at MYP and IB Diploma level at various IB schools. Maite is an official ESS IB examiner and specialises in supporting students with their EE's and IA's. 
Maria D
Maria holds a Phd in Biology and has worked in International Education for over 20 years. She teaches IB Biology & ESS and is an examiner for the IBO. She also teaches Chemistry IB. Maria specialises in supporting students with their Extended Essays and Internal Assessments. 
Suheir
Suheir holds an MS in Human Physiology and is an IB Biology specialist having worked in international education for over 30 years. She is a certified IB examiner and the Extended Essay coordinator at her current school. She is also an Internal Assessment moderator for the IBO. 
Maria C
Maria has a degree in Modern Languages from the University of Montpellier, and a Master's in Education and Teaching from the National University of Education in Spain. She teaches French as a foreign language and also Literature and Language to IB Diploma level. 
Natalie
Natalie is a certified teacher and has extensive experience supporting IB Biology students at Standard and Higher Level. She is also an expert Extended Essay and Internal Assessment tutor. 
Karolin
Following completion of her Masters in Natural Sciences, Karolin went on to achieve her MA in Education and is currently studying for a PhD with a research focus on multi-cultural education. She is an IB Examiner, and teaches IB and AP Biology, ESS & TOK 
Joe
Joe is an IB Teacher and IB Examiner in Biology & Internal Assessment Moderator & Extended Essay Examiner and a Masters in advanced teaching. He aims to help students be successful learners while mastering Biology and Science knowledge at the same time. He helps students improve for their final IB exams, giving them confidence & self-belief to do their best. 
Dipa
Option A: Neurobiology and Behaviour
As for the more challenging options, many students find Option A: Neurobiology and Behaviour quite demanding. In a nutshell, it involves many complex concepts and processes related to the brain and behaviour. For instance, it explains the structure and function of neurons and synapses, the mechanisms of perception and memory, the factors influencing behaviour, and the methods of studying the brain.
On the other hand, this option can be quite intriguing since it covers many interesting and exciting topics. Furthermore, it may help you develop your critical thinking and analytical skills, as you will have to evaluate different theories and evidence related to neurobiology and behaviour. All in all, if you are fascinated by how the mind works and how it affects our actions, or you’re planning to choose neuroscience as your career path, Option A is worth trying.
Option B: Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
Finally, we have Option B, which covers complicated yet interesting material. It focuses on the applications of biology in technology and information. With it, you will have a chance to learn about the techniques and principles of genetic engineering, biofuels, bioremediation, and others.
That being said, this option comes with some limitations. It can be very difficult to understand and apply some of the concepts and methods involved in biotechnology and bioinformatics. Moreover, many schools do not have the proper equipment or resources for the practical component. You may have to rely on simulations or online databases instead.
Overall, this fairly difficult option is for those who are curious about how biology can solve vital problems and create innovations.
Option C: Ecology and Conservation
Many students believe that this IB Biology option is the easiest, as it is mostly an extension of the ecology topic from the core syllabus. For example, you will learn about the causes and consequences of biodiversity loss, the methods and strategies for conservation, and the ethical issues involved in human interactions with the environment. If you enjoy learning about the natural world and its problems, this option is a great choice.
However, it is not without its drawbacks. It can be quite repetitive and uninspiring. That’s because it covers many topics that you already know or that are just common sense. It can also be challenging to memorize all the facts and figures related to different ecosystems or species. Moreover, Option C may not be very relevant or useful for your future studies or career, unless you plan to pursue a job in environmental science or related fields.
Option D: Human Physiology
Another popular choice among IB biology students is Human Physiology. Indeed, it has a strong connection with the topics that you have already studied before, such as the heart and digestion from the Core topic 6. Option D goes more in-depth into the structure and function of various human systems, such as the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, the liver and the heart, etc.
If you are interested in learning about how your body works and how it responds to different stimuli, this option might be the best.
What might be even more important, Option D has some benefits for your exam revision. There are many exam questions concerning human physiology. Therefore, choosing this Option can provide a solid preparation for the finals, making your journey a bit easier.
Last but not least, Option D may be more relevant or useful for your future studies or career. It is especially so if you’re looking for a job in the healthcare or medicine sector.
So Which IB Biology Option is the Easiest?
Ultimately, it is up to do to decide which IB Biology Option is the easiest.
What’s easy and what’s not is highly subjective and depends on your interests and strengths. The key to making your academic journey easier is to choose an Option that sparks your curiosity and aligns with your future career goals.
Overall, IB Biology covers a wealth of fascinating topics. But it’s also demanding, especially when combined with all the other subjects you have to learn.
If you need help wrapping your head around complex concepts or want extra support with learning new material, tutoring can be of great help.
Here at TutorsPlus, our expert IB Biology tutors are happy to provide personalised guidance and support. We can explain difficult topics more clearly, give expert advice on the theoretical and practical components of the course, as well help you prepare for your exams. Don’t hesitate to contact us today and let us help you achieve your IB biology success.
