GCSE Biology Daily Practice (Foundation)
Mark Scheme — 19 marks total
Foundation TierMarking Instructions
- • Accept equivalent answers unless the mark scheme states otherwise.
- • M marks are for method — award even if the final answer is wrong.
- • A marks are for accuracy — only award if the method mark has been earned.
- • B marks are independent and can be awarded without other marks.
- • Where a range of answers is acceptable, this is indicated in the mark scheme.
Cell Biology
11 marksName three organelles found in both plant and animal cells.
Acceptable Answer
Cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus (also accept: mitochondria, ribosomes)
Explain the difference between diffusion and active transport.
Acceptable Answer
Diffusion is passive movement from high to low concentration — no energy needed. Active transport moves substances from low to high concentration against the gradient — requires energy from respiration.
Describe the stages of mitosis.
Acceptable Answer
1) Interphase: DNA replicates, cell grows. 2) Prophase: chromosomes condense, nuclear membrane breaks down. 3) Metaphase: chromosomes line up at centre. 4) Anaphase: chromosomes pulled apart. 5) Telophase: nuclear membranes reform. 6) Cytokinesis: cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
Organisation and Disease
8 marksDescribe the role of enzymes in digestion.
Acceptable Answer
Enzymes are biological catalysts. Amylase breaks starch into sugars. Protease breaks proteins into amino acids. Lipase breaks fats into glycerol and fatty acids. Each enzyme has a specific active site for its substrate (lock and key model).
Explain how white blood cells defend the body against pathogens.
Acceptable Answer
Phagocytes engulf and digest pathogens (phagocytosis). Lymphocytes produce antibodies specific to antigens on the pathogen. Some lymphocytes produce antitoxins to neutralise toxins. Memory cells are produced for faster response on re-infection.