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B2.2.1—Organelles as discrete subunits

Organelles are specialized cell subunits with recognizable structures and functions, allowing eukaryotic cells to organize metabolism, transport, and genetic control.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
B2.2.1
Level
HL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing4%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceNovember 2025
Most common paperPaper2
Typical marks1–4

Common command terms

  • Identify
  • State
  • Describe

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Giving an unqualified name such as Golgi when the evidence requires Golgi apparatus, complex, or body.

Recent exam appearances

November 2025Paper1B ["HL"] · TZ31(c)[ 2 ]B2.2.1—Organelles as discrete subunits
May 2021Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ25(c)[ 4 ]B2.2.1—Organelles as discrete subunits
May 2014Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ22(b)(ii)[ 1 ]B2.2.1—Organelles as discrete subunits
May 2013Paper2 ["HL"] · TZ12(a)(i)[ 1 ]B2.2.1—Organelles as discrete subunits
Practice this objective

Coverage 2013–2025 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Organelles are discrete cell subunits adapted for specific functions.
  • Electron micrographs can show mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, rough ER, chloroplasts, vesicles, ribosomes, and nuclei.
  • Organelle identification often depends on visible structures such as cristae, cisternae, ribosomes, or membranes.
  • Cell wall, cytoplasm, and cytoskeleton are usually not treated as organelles in this syllabus context.
ConceptIB Biology HL