.svg)
Ever wondered how your heart keeps beating without you thinking about it? Or why some plants eat insects instead of just making their own food? Biology is full of fascinating mysteries, and if you're stepping into Class 11, get ready to explore the wonders of life like never before!
The CBSE Class 11 Biology syllabus for 2025-26 is designed to build a strong foundation in life sciences, preparing you for board exams, competitive tests like NEET, and, most importantly, a deeper understanding of how living organisms function. From the tiny structures inside a cell to the complex systems of the human body, this syllabus covers it all.
In this blog, we’ll break down the syllabus simply and engagingly. You’ll learn about the chapters, marking scheme, and the most important topics to focus on. Whether you dream of becoming a doctor, scientist or just love exploring the world of biology, understanding the syllabus is the first step toward success. So, are you ready to discover how life really works? Let’s dive in and explore what Class 11 Biology has in store for you in the 2025-26 academic session!
CBSE 2025-26 Class 11 Biology Syllabus
*(Credit to the student’s work over the academic session may be given)
Biology is the study of life, and in Class 11, you will dive deep into the fascinating world of living organisms. The CBSE Biology syllabus for 2025-26 is carefully designed to help students develop a strong conceptual understanding, preparing them for board exams and competitive tests like NEET.
The syllabus is divided into five units, covering various aspects of biological sciences. Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you’ll be studying this year:
Chapter-1: The Living World
Biodiversity; Need for classification; three domains of life; taxonomy and systematics; concept of species and taxonomical hierarchy; binomial nomenclature
Chapter-2: Biological Classification
Five kingdom classification; Salient features and classification of Monera, Protista and Fungi into major groups; Lichens, Viruses and Viroids.
Chapter-3: Plant Kingdom
Classification of plants into major groups; Salient and distinguishing features and a few examples of Algae, Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Gymnospermae and Angiosperms.
Chapter-4: Animal Kingdom
Salient features and classification of animals, non-chordates up to phyla level and chordates upto class level (salient features and at a few examples of each category).
(No live animals or specimen should be displayed.)
Chapter-5: Morphology of Flowering Plants
Morphology of different parts of flowering plants: root, stem, leaf, inflorescence, flower, fruit and seed. Description of family Solanaceae
Chapter-6: Anatomy of Flowering Plants
Anatomy and functions of tissue systems in dicots and monocots.
Chapter-7: Structural Organisation in Animals
Morphology, Anatomy and functions of different systems (digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous and reproductive) of frog.
Chapter-8: 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; cell organelles - structure and function; endomembrane system, endoplasmic reticulum, golgi bodies, lysosomes, vacuoles, mitochondria, ribosomes, plastids, microbodies; cytoskeleton, cilia, flagella, centrioles (ultrastructure and function); nucleus.
Chapter-9: Biomolecules
Chemical constituents of living cells: biomolecules, structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids; Enzyme - types, properties, enzyme action. (Topics excluded: Nature of Bond Linking Monomers in a Polymer, Dynamic State of Body Constituents Concept of Metabolism, Metabolic Basis of Living, The Living State)
Chapter-10: Cell Cycle and Cell Division
Cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis and their significance
Chapter-11: Photosynthesis 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.
Chapter-12: Respiration in Plants
Exchange of gases; cellular respiration - glycolysis, fermentation (anaerobic), TCA cycle and electron transport system (aerobic); energy relations - number of ATP molecules generated; amphibolic pathways; respiratory quotient.
Chapter-13: 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; plant growth regulators - auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, ethylene, ABA.
Chapter-14: Breathing and Exchange of Gases
Respiratory organs in animals (recall only); 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 - asthma, emphysema, occupational respiratory disorders.
Chapter-15: 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 - hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina pectoris, heart failure.
Chapter-16: 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 - uremia, renal failure, renal calculi, nephritis; dialysis and artificial kidney, kidney transplant.
Chapter-17: 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 systems - myasthenia gravis, tetany, muscular dystrophy, arthritis, osteoporosis, gout.
Chapter-18: 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
Chapter- 19: Chemical Coordination and Integration
Endocrine glands and hormones; human endocrine system - hypothalamus, pituitary, pineal, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas, gonads; mechanism of hormone action (elementary idea); role of hormones as messengers and regulators, hypo - and hyperactivity and related disorders; dwarfism, acromegaly, cretinism, goiter, exophthalmic goitre, diabetes, Addison's disease.
The following topics are included in the syllabus but will be assessed only formatively to reinforce understanding without adding to summative assessments. The reduces academic stress while ensuring meaningful learning. Schools can integrate these with existing chapters as they align well. Relevant NCERT textual material is enclosed for reference.
Digestion and Absorption (Please Refer to CBSE Reading Material)
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 - PEM, indigestion, constipation, vomiting, jaundice, diarrhoea.
1. Study and describe locally available common flowering plants, from family Solanaceae (Poaceae, Asteraceae or Brassicaceae can be substituted in case of particular geographical location) including dissection and display of floral whorls, anther and ovary to show number of chambers (floral formulae and floral diagrams), type of root (tap and adventitious); type of stem (herbaceous and woody); leaf (arrangement, shape, venation, simple and compound).
2. Preparation and study of T.S. of dicot and monocot roots and stems (primary).
3. Study of osmosis by potato osmometer.
4. Study of plasmolysis in epidermal peels (e.g. Rhoeo/lily leaves or fleshy scale leaves of onion bulb).
5. Study of distribution of stomata on the upper and lower surfaces of leaves.
6. Comparative study of the rates of transpiration in the upper and lower surfaces of leaves.
7. Test for the presence of sugar, starch, proteins and fats in suitable plant and animal materials.
8. Separation of plant pigments through paper chromatography.
9. Study of the rate of respiration in flower buds/leaf tissue and germinating seeds.
10. Test for presence of urea in urine.
11. Test for presence of sugar in urine.
12. Test for presence of albumin in urine.
13. Test for presence of bile salts in urine.
B. Study and Observe the following (Spotting)
1. Parts of a compound microscope.
2. Specimens/slides/models and identification with reasons - Bacteria, Oscillatoria, Spirogyra, Rhizopus, mushroom, yeast, liverwort, moss, fern, pine, one monocotyledonous plant, one dicotyledonous plant and one lichen.
3. Virtual specimens/slides/models and identifying features of - Amoeba, Hydra, liver fluke, Ascaris, leech, earthworm, prawn, silkworm, honey bee, snail, starfish, shark, rohu, frog, lizard, pigeon and rabbit.
4. Mitosis in onion root tip cells and animal cells (grasshopper) from permanent slides.
5. Different types of inflorescence (cymose and racemose).
6. Human skeleton and different types of joints with the help of virtual images/models only.
The CBSE Class 11 Biology syllabus for 2025-26 is an essential academic resource for students, teachers, and parents. It outlines the curriculum, helping students stay focused on the right topics and ensuring structured learning. Below are detailed reasons why downloading the syllabus is crucial for effective exam preparation.
Stay Updated with the Latest Syllabus
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) revises the syllabus periodically to incorporate the latest educational standards, advancements in science, and changes in exam patterns. By downloading the updated syllabus, students can:
Many students waste valuable time studying extra topics that are no longer part of the curriculum. Having the latest syllabus prevents such mistakes and ensures focused learning.
Helps in Effective Study Planning
A well-organised study schedule is essential for success in Class 11, as Biology is a vast subject requiring conceptual clarity and memorization. The syllabus helps students:
By following the syllabus, students can break down the course into manageable sections and prepare at a steady pace, ensuring better concept retention.
Focus on Important Topics
The syllabus provides a detailed breakdown of topics, along with their weightage in exams. This helps students:
For example, Human Physiology is an essential unit carrying significant weightage in exams, so students should dedicate more time to mastering concepts like respiration, circulation, excretion, and nervous system functions.
Aligns with NEET and Other Competitive Exams
For students preparing for medical entrance exams like NEET, having the CBSE syllabus is extremely beneficial because:
Understanding Class 11 Biology thoroughly will give students a strong foundation for Class 12 and increase their chances of scoring well in NEET.
Includes Practical and Project Work
Biology is not just about theory—it involves experiments, observations, and practical applications. The syllabus provides clear guidelines for practical exams, which include:
By downloading the syllabus, students can prepare well in advance for their practical exams, ensuring they perform well in lab assessments.
Ensures NCERT-Based Learning
CBSE strictly follows NCERT textbooks, making it essential for students to focus on these books for exam preparation. The syllabus helps students:
Many CBSE exam questions are directly taken from NCERT examples, in-text questions, and exercises, so following the syllabus ensures a targeted study approach.
Helps Teachers in Lesson Planning
For educators, the Class 11 Biology syllabus acts as a teaching guide, helping them:
With the help of the syllabus, teachers can create a well-balanced curriculum that ensures effective classroom learning.
Guides Parents in Tracking Progress
Parents play an important role in a student's academic success. By referring to the syllabus, parents can:
A clear understanding of the syllabus allows parents to provide better guidance and support at home.
Useful for Revision and Exam Preparation
When exams approach, students often feel overwhelmed by the vast syllabus. Having a structured syllabus helps in:
A syllabus-based revision strategy prevents confusion and ensures that students are fully prepared for their exams.
Free and Easily Accessible
One of the biggest advantages of downloading the CBSE syllabus is that it is completely free and available online. Students can:
Since the syllabus is officially released by CBSE, students can trust its accuracy and authenticity.
Students can download the official CBSE syllabus from:
Downloading the syllabus from trusted sources ensures that students get authentic and updated information. The CBSE Class 11 Biology Syllabus for 2025-26 is a crucial tool for academic success. It not only helps students stay organised but also ensures focused preparation, better exam performance, and a strong foundation for Class 12 and competitive exams.
A well-structured study plan is essential for excelling in Class 11 Biology. The CBSE syllabus for 2025-26 provides a clear framework, helping students manage their time effectively and focus on important topics. This step-by-step study plan ensures systematic learning, better retention, and improved exam performance.
Before starting your preparation, take the time to understand the CBSE Class 11 Biology syllabus. It is divided into the following five units:
Unit 1: Diversity of Living Organisms
Unit 2: Structural Organisation in Animals and Plants
Unit 3: Cell Structure and Function
Unit 4: Plant Physiology
Unit 5: Human Physiology
Each unit has a different weightage, so it’s important to allocate study time based on its importance in exams.
A balanced timetable helps cover all topics efficiently without last-minute stress.
Weekly Study Plan (4-5 Hours per Day)
This cycle can be repeated every month with different topics to ensure full coverage before exams.
To master Class 11 Biology, use the best study materials:
Using NCERT first ensures a strong foundation before moving to advanced resources.
To enhance learning, use the following techniques:
Make Chapter-wise Notes
Create Diagrams and Flowcharts
Use Mnemonics and Short Tricks
Teach Someone Else
Explaining concepts to a friend or family member helps in better understanding and retention.
Practice Questions Regularly
Theory Preparation (70%)
Practical Preparation (30%)
Monthly Revision Plan
Revising multiple times boosts confidence and ensures strong recall during exams.
Follow NCERT strictly – Almost all CBSE exam questions come from NCERT.
Attempt long-answer questions first – They carry higher marks.
Use proper scientific terminology – Avoid casual language.
Answer in points – This makes answers more structured and readable.
Leave space for diagrams – Many Biology questions require illustrations.
Pro Tip: Start early, stay consistent, and use smart study techniques to master Class 11 Biology with confidence!
By downloading and following the syllabus, students can:
So, make sure to download the syllabus today and start your preparation the right way!
The subject is not extremely difficult per se, but it does require strenuous hard work on the part of the students.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has freshly released its latest and revised syllabus for students of the academic session 2025-2026. Check the CBSE Class 11 Syllabus 2025-26 here for all the subjects, along with the free PDF download links for the same.
You will still be regarded as having passed. To advance to the next level, you must pass five topics. However, failing more than one topic signifies that you failed class 11.
.svg){kind=logo}
