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Bio for Kids

Nurturing Young Scientists with Curiosity and Care

Overview of Major Science Talent Search & Olympiad Exams for School Students

Exam	Full Name	Conducting Body	Target Class	Subjects Covered
Homi Bhabha Exam	Dr. Homi Bhabha Balvaidnyanik Spardha	Greater Bombay Science Teachers Association	6th & 9th	General Science (based on State Board, NCERT, ICSE/CBSE texts)
NSEJS	National Standard Examination in Junior Science	IAPT & HBCSE	Class 10 or below (under 15 years)	Physics, Chemistry, Biology
INJSO	Indian National Junior Science Olympiad	HBCSE (for qualifiers of NSEJS)	NSEJS Qualifiers	Physics, Chemistry, Biology
OCSC	Orientation-Cum-Selection Camp	HBCSE	INJSO Qualifiers	Advanced Science Training
IJSO	International Junior Science Olympiad	IJSO Committee	Top 4–6 students from OCSC	Physics, Chemistry, Biology
NSEB	National Standard Examination in Biology	IAPT	Class 12 or below (under 19 years)	Biology (Class 11-12 level)

Unit	Topics Covered
I. Diversity of Life	Characteristics of living beings, classification (Monera to Animalia), taxonomy, viruses, lichens, biodiversity.
II. Structural Organisation	Morphology and anatomy of flowering plants; animal tissues; major systems in animals (digestive, circulatory, etc.).
III. Cell Structure & Function	Prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells, organelles, biomolecules, enzyme function, cellular respiration, mitosis & meiosis.
IV. Plant Physiology	Transport mechanisms, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis (C3/C4), respiration, plant hormones, photoperiodism, dormancy.
V. Human Physiology	Digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, muscular, nervous and endocrine systems; reproductive health.
VI. Reproduction	Asexual & sexual reproduction, human and plant reproduction, fertilisation, seed formation, birth control, IVF techniques
VII. Genetics & Evolution	Mendelian inheritance, sex determination, DNA structure & replication, gene expression, evolution theories, Hardy-Weinberg.
VIII. Biology & Human Welfare	Human diseases (e.g. malaria, HIV), immunity, antibiotics, food production, microbes, biotechnology, bioethics.
IX. Ecology & Environment	Ecosystems, population interactions, biodiversity, pollution, climate change, conservation efforts.

Overview of Major Science Talent Search & Olympiad Exams for School Students

Conceptual Teaching based on NCERT + Olympiad-style learning
Customized Study Plans for NSEB aspirants
Science Lab Demos & interactive problem-solving sessions
Regular Testing & Feedback to track student progress
Mentorship by Experts with Olympiad guidance experience
At DIBA, we don’t just prepare for exams — we prepare scientists of tomorrow. Let your journey begin with Homi Bhabha!

Books and Syllabus – Dr. Homi Bhabha Exam

Dr. Homi Bhabha Balvaidnyanik Spardha is one of the most prestigious science talent exams in Maharashtra. To help young minds prepare with clarity and confidence, here is a well-structured list of recommended books and syllabus details for both 6th and 9th standard students.

For 6th Standard Students

Classes 5 and 6

These books cover all the essential concepts required for the exam. They are comprehensive, affordable, and aligned with the exam pattern.

Additional Reference (Optional):

New Science in Everyday Life – Oxford University Press (Class 6 & 7) This book provides extra conceptual clarity and real-life application examples but is not mandatory.

🔁 Note for ICSE Students:

For 9th Standard Students

Main Syllabus:
SSC State Board Science Textbooks
Standards 7, 8, 9, and 10
NCERT Science Textbooks
Classes 7, 8, 9, and 10
These core textbooks are sufficient for understanding key scientific concepts and principles tested in the exam.

Additional Reference (Optional):

Students may refer to CBSE or ICSE Science Books for Class 8 & 9 for broader exposure and extra questions.

Note for ICSE Students:

At Dr. Indrajeet Biology Academy, we guide students to focus on the right sources, develop strong fundamentals, and build scientific curiosity through a structured foundation course aligned with these resources.

Unlocking Scientific Talent at an Early Age At Dr. Indrajeet Biology Academy (DIBA), we go beyond just preparing students for the National Standard Examination in Biology (NSEB) — we ignite their passion for research and innovation in Life Sciences.

Through concept-focused teaching, Olympiad-level problem-solving, and exposure to real-world biological applications, we train students to excel in NSEB and inspire them to explore careers in scientific research, biotechnology, medicine, and beyond.

From foundational knowledge to research mindset — we build future biologists, thinkers, and innovators.

The NSEJS is India’s first stage in the selection process for the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO). Conducted annually by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT) in collaboration with Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), this exam is designed to test and reward deep understanding and application of core science concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Chance to Represent India at the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO)
Sharpens Problem-Solving Skills and deepens conceptual understanding
Expert Mentorship through various national camps
Certificates, Awards, Recognition and Academic Advantage
Low Entry Cost and High Learning Value
For students passionate about science, NSEJS is the launchpad to a future in STEM.

Stages of the Olympiad Journey

The first-level screening exam. Students scoring above the Minimum Admissible Score (MAS) are shortlisted.

Pre-Departure Camp

Final team preparation at HBCSE before the international round.
IJSO (International Junior Science Olympiad)
Top 4–6 students represent India and compete globally.
Certificates and Awards
Report Card for students scoring above MAS
Top 10% at every centre receive Certificates of Achievement
Special Merit Certificates + Book Prize to National Top 1% in Junior Science
Gold Medals awarded to OCSC-selected students

I. Diversity of Living Organisms

What is living? Biodiversity; Need for classification; three domains of life; taxonomy and systematics; concept of species and taxonomical hierarchy; binomial nomenclature and tools for study of taxonomy.

Biological Classification:

Five kingdom classification; Salient features and classification of Monera, Protista and Fungi into major groups: Lichens, Viruses and Viroids.

Plant Kingdom:

Salient features and classification of plants into major groups – Algae, Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Gymnospermae and Angiospermae.

Animal Kingdom:

Salient features and classification of animals, non-chordates up to phyla level and chordates up to class level.

II: Structural Organization in Animals and Plants

Morphology and anatomy of Flowering Plants:

Morphology and modifications: Morphology of different parts of flowering plants: root, stem, leaf, inflorescence, flower, fruit and seed. Anatomy and functions of different tissues and tissue systems.

Structural Organisation in Animals:

Animal tissues; Morphology, anatomy and functions of different systems (digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous and reproductive) of animals.

III. Cell: Structure and Function

Cell-The Unit of Life: Cell theory and cell as the basic unit of life:

Structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; Plant cell and animal cell; cell envelope; cell membrane, cell wall; structure and function of all cell organelles. Cellular respiration – glycolysis, fermentation (anaerobic), TCA cycle and electron transport system (aerobic); energy relations – number of ATP molecules generated; amphibolic pathways; respiratory quotient.

Biomolecules:

Chemical constituents of living cells: biomolecules, structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids; Enzymes- types, properties, enzyme action.

Cell Cycle and Cell Division:

Cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis and their significance.

IV. Plant Physiology

Transport in Plants:

Movement of water, gases and nutrients; cell to cell transport, diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport; plant-water relations, imbibition, water potential, osmosis, plasmolysis; long distance transport of water – Absorption, apoplast, symplast, transpiration pull, root pressure and guttation; transpiration, opening and closing of stomata; Uptake and translocation of mineral nutrients – Transport of food, phloem transport, mass flow hypothesis.

Mineral Nutrition:

Essential minerals, macro- and micronutrients and their role; deficiency symptoms; mineral toxicity; elementary idea of hydroponics as a method to study mineral nutrition; nitrogen metabolism, nitrogen cycle, biological nitrogen fixation.

Photosynthesis and Respiration in Higher Plants:

Photosynthesis as a means of autotrophic nutrition; site of photosynthesis, pigments involved in photosynthesis (elementary idea); photochemical and biosynthetic phases of photosynthesis; cyclic and non-cyclic photophosphorylation; chemiosmotic hypothesis; photorespiration; C3 and C4 pathways; factors affecting photosynthesis; exchange of gases.

Plant - Growth and Development:

Seed germination; phases of plant growth and plant growth rate; conditions of growth; differentiation, dedifferentiation and redifferentiation; sequence of developmental processes in a plant cell; growth regulators; seed dormancy; vernalisation; photoperiodism.

V. Human Physiology

Digestion and Absorption:

Alimentary canal and digestive glands, role of digestive enzymes and gastrointestinal hormones; Peristalsis, digestion, absorption and assimilation of proteins, carbohydrates and fats; calorific values of proteins, carbohydrates and fats; egestion; nutritional and digestive disorders.

Breathing and Exchange of Gases:

Respiratory system in humans; mechanism of breathing and its regulation in humans – exchange of gases, transport of gases and regulation of respiration, respiratory volume; disorders related to respiration.

Body Fluids and Circulation:

Composition of blood, blood groups, coagulation of blood; composition of lymph and its function; human circulatory system – Structure of human heart and blood vessels; cardiac cycle, cardiac output, ECG; double circulation; regulation of cardiac activity; disorders of circulatory system.

Excretory Products and Their Elimination:

Modes of excretion – ammonotelism, ureotelism, uricotelism; human excretory system – structure and function; urine formation, osmoregulation; regulation of kidney function – renin – angiotensin, atrial natriuretic factor, ADH and diabetes insipidus; role of other organs in excretion; disorders of excretory system; dialysis and artificial kidney, kidney transplant.

Locomotion and Movement:

Types of movement – ciliary, flagellar, muscular; skeletal muscle- contractile proteins and muscle contraction; skeletal system and its functions; joints; disorders of muscular and skeletal system.

Neural Control and Coordination:

Neuron and nerves; Nervous system in humans – central nervous system; peripheral nervous system and visceral nervous system; generation and conduction of nerve impulse; reflex action; sensory perception; structure and functions of sense organs.

Chemical Coordination and Integration:

Endocrine glands and hormones; human endocrine system; mechanism of hormone action; role of hormones as messengers and regulators, hypo – and hyperactivity and related disorders.

VI. Reproduction

Reproduction in Organisms:

Reproduction, a characteristic feature of all organisms for continuation of species; modes of reproduction – asexual and sexual reproduction; asexual reproduction – binary fission, sporulation, budding, gemmule formation, fragmentation; vegetative propagation in plants.

Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants:

Flower structure; development of male and female gametophytes; pollination – types, agencies and examples; outbreeding devices; pollen-pistil interaction; double fertilization; post fertilization events – development of endosperm and embryo, development of seed and formation of fruit; special modes- apomixis, parthenocarpy, polyembryony; Significance of seed dispersal and fruit formation.

Human Reproduction:

Male and female reproductive systems; microscopic anatomy of testis and ovary; gametogenesis – spermatogenesis and oogenesis; menstrual cycle; fertilisation, embryo development upto blastocyst formation, implantation; pregnancy and placenta formation; parturition; lactation.

Reproductive Health:

Need for reproductive health and prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs); birth control – need and methods, contraception and medical termination of pregnancy (MTP); amniocentesis; infertility and assisted reproductive technologies – IVF, ZIFT, GIFT.

VII. Genetics and Evolution

Heredity and variation:

Mendelian inheritance; deviations from Mendelism – incomplete dominance, co- dominance, multiple alleles and inheritance of blood groups, pleiotropy; elementary idea of polygenic inheritance; chromosome theory of inheritance; chromosomes and genes; Sex determination – in humans, birds and honey bee; linkage and crossing over; sex linked inheritances; Mendelian disorders in humans.

Molecular Basis of Inheritance:

DNA as genetic material; Structure of DNA and RNA; DNA packaging; DNA replication; Central dogma; transcription, genetic code, translation; gene expression and regulation – lac operon; Genome; DNA fingerprinting.

Evolution:

Origin of life; biological evolution and evidences for biological evolution (paleontology, comparative anatomy, embryology and molecular evidences); Darwin’s contribution, modern synthetic theory of evolution; mechanism of evolution – variation (mutation and recombination) and natural selection with examples, types of natural selection; Gene flow and genetic drift; Hardy – Weinberg’s principle; adaptive radiation; human evolution.

VIII. Biology and Human Welfare

Human Health and Diseases:

Pathogens; parasites causing human diseases (malaria, dengue, chikungunya, filariasis, ascariasis, typhoid, pneumonia, common cold, amoebiasis, ringworm) and their control; Basic concepts of immunology – vaccines; cancer, HIV and AIDS; Adolescence – drug and alcohol abuse.

Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production:

Improvement in food production: Plant breeding, tissue culture, single cell protein, Biofortification, Apiculture and Animal husbandry.

Microbes in Human Welfare:

In household food processing, industrial production, sewage treatment, energy generation and microbes as bio-control agents and bio-fertilizers. Antibiotics; production and judicious use.

Biotechnology – Principles, processes and applications:

Genetic Engineering (Recombinant DNA Technology); Application of biotechnology in health and agriculture: Human insulin and vaccine production, stem cell technology, gene therapy; genetically modified organisms – Bt crops; transgenic animals; biosafety issues, bio piracy and patents.

IX. Ecology and Environment

Organisms and Populations:

Organisms and environment: Habitat and niche, population and ecological adaptations; population interactions – mutualism, competition, predation, parasitism; population attributes – growth, birth rate and death rate, age distribution.

Ecosystems:

Patterns, components; productivity and decomposition; energy flow; pyramids of number, biomass, energy; nutrient cycles; ecological succession; carbon fixation, pollination, seed dispersal.

Biodiversity and its Conservation:

Biodiversity-Concept, patterns, importance; loss of biodiversity; biodiversity conservation; hotspots, endangered organisms and extinction.

Environmental Issues:

Air pollution and its control; water pollution and its control; agrochemicals and their effects; solid waste management; radioactive waste management; greenhouse effect and climate change impact and mitigation; ozone layer depletion; deforestation.

Exam Pattern

Section	Questions	Marks	Marking Scheme
A	48 MCQs (Single correct)	144	+3 for correct, -1 for incorrect
B	12 MCQs (Multiple correct)	72	Full marks only if all correct options marked

How We Help at Dr. Indrajeet Biology Academy

Conceptual Teaching based on NCERT + Olympiad-style learning
Customized Study Plans for NSEB aspirants
Science Lab Demos & interactive problem-solving sessions
Regular Testing & Feedback to track student progress
Mentorship by Experts with Olympiad guidance experience
At DIBA, we don’t just prepare for exams — we prepare scientists of tomorrow. Let your journey begin with NSEB!