AQA BIOLOGY ESSAY TITLES VERSION 2

AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. AQA BIOLOGY ESSAY TITLES VERSION 2 Biology essay titles Version 2 This document contains the essay titles and mark schemes used in AQA A-level Biology examinations since 2007. The specifications these exam questions came from are no longer in use, but the marking method has largely remained unchanged. Further guidance on the marking method used with the essay can be found in Paper 3 Essay marking guidance. Year Questio nTitle 7402/3 2017 7.1 The importance of nitrogen-containing substances in biological systems 2017 7.2 The importance of diffusion in organisms BIOL5 2017 10a The importance of the specific shapes of molecules in organisms. 2017 10b The importance of transfers of substances within organisms and between organisms and their environment. 2016 10a The control of processes in cells and the importance of these controls. 2016 10b The importance of ions in biology. 2015R 10a The importance of responses to changes in the internal and external environment of an organism. 2015R 10b The importance to humans of the control of growth, reproduction and development of organisms, including themselves. 2015 10a The importance of proteins in the control of processes and responses in organisms. 2015 10b The causes and importance of variation and diversity in organisms. 2014 10 a Cells and organisms carry out exchanges with their external environment to maintain their internal environment. 2014 10 b How energy is transferred within and between organisms. 2013 10 a The membranes of different types of cells are involved in many different functions. 2013 10 b There are many different types of relationships and interactions between organisms. AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 2012 10 a The importance of shapes fitting together in cells and organisms 2012 10 b How bacteria can affect the lives of humans and other organisms 2011 10 a Using DNA in science and technology AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in2 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 2011 10 b A cycle is a biological pathway or process in which the end product of one cycle becomes the starting point for the next. Write an essay about cycles in biology 2010 10 a Carbon dioxide may affect organisms directly or indirectly. Describe and explain these effects. 2010 10 b The causes of disease in humans SPEC B 2010 A The movement of substances within living organisms 2010 B Cycles in Biology 2009 A Ions and organisms 2009 B DNA and the transfer of information. 2008 A The part played by the movement of substances across cell membranes in the functioning of different organs and organ systems 2008 B The part played by enzymes in the functioning of different cells, tissues and organs. 2007 A Movements inside cells 2007 B Transfers through ecosystems SPEC A 2010 A Carbon dioxide in organisms and ecosystems. 2010 B Why the offspring produced by the same parents are different in appearance 2009 A The uses of water in living organisms. 2009 B The transfer of energy within and between organisms 2008 A Hydrogen bonds and their importance in living organisms. 2008 B How nitrogen-containing substances are made available to and are used 2007 A Carbon dioxide in organisms and ecosystems. 2007 B Why the offspring produced by the same parents are different in appearance AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in3 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Mark Schemes: 7402/3 June 2017 7.1 The importance of nitrogen-containing substances in biological systems Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 07.1 • 3.1.4 and 3.1.4.2 proteins and enzymes • 3.1.5 nucleic acids • 3.1.5.2 DNA replication • 3.1.6 ATP • 3.2.1.1 ribosomes • 3.2.2 cell division • 3.2.3 transport across membranes • 3.2.4 immune response • 3.3.3 digestion and absorption • 3.3.4.1 haemoglobin • 3.4.1 genes and chromosomes • 3.4.2 protein synthesis • 3.4.3 mutation • 3.4.7 investigating diversity • 3..5.1 photosynthesis • 3.5.2 respiration • 3.5.4 nitrogen cycle • 3.6.2 nervous coordination • 3.6.3 muscles • 3.6.4.2 control of blood glucose (and peptide/protein hormones) • 3.7.1 inheritance • 3.8.1 alteration of DNA sequences • 3.8.2.2 regulation of transcription and translation 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in4 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. June 2017 7.2 The importance of diffusion in organisms Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 07.2 3.1.7 and 3.1.8 water and inorganic ions • 3.2.3 transport across membranes • 3.3.2 gas exchange • 3.3.3 digestion and absorption • 3.3.4.1 mass transport in animals • 3.3.4.2 mass transport in plants • 3.4.2 DNA and protein synthesis • 3.5.1 photosynthesis • 3.5.2 respiration • 3.5.4 nutrient cycles • 3.6.1.1 plant responses to stimuli • 3.6.1.2 receptors • 3.6.2.1 nerve impulses • 3.6.2.2 synaptic transmission • 3.6.3 muscle contraction • 3.6.4.1 and 4.2 control of blood glucose concentration • 3.6.4.3 control of blood water potential 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in5 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. BIOL5 June 2017 10(a) The importance of the specific shapes of molecules in organisms. Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 10(a) 3.1.2 Proteins and enzymes 3.1.2 and 3.2.4. Glucose, starch, cellulose 3.1.3 Plasma membranes and transport across and absorption 3.1.6 Immune response 3.2.2 and 3.5.6 DNA, genes and polypeptide synthesis 3.2.5 and 3.2.10 and 3.5.6 Replication of DNA and mutations 3.2.4. Haemoglobin 3.4.3 and 3.4.4 Photosynthesis and respiration 2.5.1 and 3.5.4 Receptors (and specificity) 2.5.2 Nerve impulses and synapses 2.5.3 Muscle contraction 3.5.4 and 3.5.5 Hormones and feedback systems 3.5.7 Gene expression 3.5.8 Gene therapy and medical diagnosis 25 P C T I D M H Pr R N Mc Hf Ge Gt June 2017 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in6 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10(b) The importance of transfers of substances within organisms and between organisms and their environment. Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 10(b) 3.1.1 and 3.1.3 entry of pathogens and effects of cholera 3.1.3 transfers across membranes 3.1.4 and 3.2.7 gas exchange 3.1.5 and 3.2.7 heart and circulation and mass transport, formation and return of tissue fluid 3.1.6 Immune response 3.2.2 and 3.2.5 cell division 3.2.4 haemoglobin 3.2.5 and 3.5.6 replication of DNA and protein synthesis 3.4.1 and 3.4.5 abiotic factors and populations and fertilisers 3.4.3 photosynthesis and limiting factors 3.4.4 respiration 3.4.5 energy transfers and food production 3.4.6 and 3.4.7 nutrient cycles and succession 3.5.1 and 3.5.4 tropisms (transfer of IAA), receptors and control of heart rate, 25 P T G H I C Hb D I - e.g. transfer of antibody to site of infection/fro m mother in milk. Af Ph R E N Hr E - Only in June 2016 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in7 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10(a) The control of processes in cells and the importance of these controls. Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 10(a) O 3.1.3. and 3.2.4. Organelles and processes T 3.1.3. Transport across membranes 3.1.3. Cholera I 3.1.5. Immune response M 3.2.2. Meiosis C 3.2.5. Mitosis and cell cycle and DNA replication Tr 3.2.7. Passage of water through plant E 3.4.2. ATP 3.4.3. Photosynthesis 3.4.4. Respiration G 3.2.10. Antibiotics and genetic variation 3.4.8. Inheritance N 3.5.1. Receptors 3.5.2. Nerve impulses and synapses Mc 3.5.3. Muscle contraction H 3.5.4. Control of blood glucose concentration – hormones – plant growth substances Cd 3.2.6. Cell differentiation 3.5.6. Polypeptide synthesis and gene mutations Gt 3.5.7. Gene expression 3.5.8. Gene therapy 25 H If a candidate writes at great length about plant growth substances and hormones, then the topic can be split to allow more credit. June 2016 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in8 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10(b) The importance of ions in biology. Question Marking Guidance Mark Comments 10(b) P 3.1.3, 3.2.2. Phosphate in structure of phospholipids, structure of membranes, nucleotides, DNA and RNA T 3.1.3. Water potentials and osmosis, chloride ions and cholera 3.1.3. Co-transport involving sodium ions H 3.2.4. Haemoglobin and iron Tr 3.2.7. Passage of water through plants, symplast and root pressure Ph 3.4.1. ATP and ADP 3.4.3. Protons in photosynthesis, including reduced NADP and phosphorylated intermediates R 3.4.4. Protons in respiration, reduced NADS and FAD and phosphorylated intermediates 3.4.4. Glycolysis and lactate F 3.4.5. Use of (NPK) fertilisers 3.4.6. Nitrogen cycle N 3.5.1. Chemoreceptors, heart rate and Pacinian function 3.5.2. Nerve impulses and synapses M 3.5.3. Calcium ions and muscle contraction, and phosphate from ATP G 3.5.8. Genetic fingerprinting, electrophoresis 25 June 2015R AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered in9 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) The importance of responses to changes in the internal and external environment of an organism. Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (a) T - 3.1.3 Transport in and out of cells (of specific substances) 25 The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. I - 3.1.6 Immune response Hb - 3.2.4 Haemoglobin Tr - 3.2.7 Transpiration – response to environmental factors – gas exchange in plants B - 3.2.9 Behaviour A - 3.2.10 Adaptation and selection P - 3.4.8 Changes in populations – selection pressures R - 3.5.1 Responses to stimuli – plants and tropisms – control of heart rate Tk - 3.5.1 Taxes and kineses Rc - 3.5.1 Receptors H - 3.5.2 Control of Heart Rate Sn - 3.5.1 and 2 Simple reflexes and neurones and synapses Hr - 3.5.2 and 5.4 Hormones and responses C - 3.5.2 Chemical mediators Ho - 3.5.4 Homeostasis – response to changes in internal environment F - 3.5.5 Feedback G - 3.5.7 Gene June 2015R AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n0 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) The importance to humans of the control of growth, reproduction and development of organisms, including themselves. Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (b) A - 3.1.1 Pathogens (and invasion of human tissues) and 3.2.10 Antibiotic resistance – control of bacterial growth 25 The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. Ch - 3.1.3 Cholera I - 3.1.6 Immune response and vaccination (to control growth of pathogens) B - 3.2.11 Human influence on biodiversity Hp - 3.4.1 Human populations Hf - 3.4.5 Humans and farming practices – and 3.2.3 selective breeding F - 3.4.6 Use of fertilisers and pesticides S - 3.4.7 Succession – control of G - 3.4.8 Genetics – prediction of inherited conditions Ge - 3.5.7 Control of gene expression – stem cells C - 3.5.7 Regulation of gene expression – prevention, treatment and cure of cancer – and 3.2.5 Mitosis and cancer Gc - 3.5.8 Gene cloning and transfer Gt - 3.5.8 Gene therapy June 2015 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n1 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) The importance of proteins in the control of processes and responses in organisms. Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (a) Cat. Enzymes as catalysts Met. Enyzmes control metabolic pathways 25 The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. R. Proteins/enzymes in respiration P. Proteins/enzymes in photosynthesis Mb. Control of movement across Membranes IM. Immunology Hb. Haemoglobin DNA. DNA Pc. Pacinian corpuscles – stretch mediated sodium channels AP. Action potentials S. Synaptic transmission Hm. Protein/peptide hormones T. Enzymes in gene transcription and Translation TF. Transcription factors and receptors GT. Gene therapy involving proteins June 2015 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n2 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) The causes and importance of variation and diversity in organisms. (25 marks) Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (b) A. Antigenic variation in pathogens – antigenic variation in e.g. viruses 25 The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. E. Evolution of antibiotic-resistance in Bacteria DNA. Genetic diversity because of differences in DNA – comparing base sequences G. Genes, alleles and proteins produced P. Comparing protein sequences AS. Selection – selective breeding, artificial selection FG. Founder effect/genetic bottlenecks Sp. Species diversity and index of Diversity C. Causes of variation in populations – Meiosis DV. Advantages of variation – disease, food chains, adaptation S. Succession GP. Gene pools and evolution, natural Selection Sp. Speciation, geographical isolation GMT. Gene mutation GE. Differences in gene expression GMT. Genetically modified organisms GF. Genetic fingerprinting June 2014 Biol 5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n3 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) Cells and organisms carry out exchanges with their external environment to maintain their internal environment. (25 marks) Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10(a) H - Homeostasis (concept of) D - Digestion and absorption The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. C - Cells L - Lung function G - Gas exchange W - Passage of water through plant Nc - Nutrient cycles R - Response to stimuli N- Neurones T - Temperature control Tf - tissue fluid and its formation B - Control of blood glucose concentration Nf - Negative feedback Gn - Gene expression June 2014 Biol 5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n4 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) How energy is transferred within and between organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10(b) P - Photosynthesis Ec - Energy transfer through ecosystems The topics listed contain material that could be made relevant to the title. Writing about these topics in a general sense may not address the question. Candidates may make correct use of material from other topics. A* includes where candidates use information about a topic in the specification but go beyond what is expected for our A-level. F - Food production D - Digestion (as in fuel) Ab - Absorption (by cells) Mt - Mass transport R - Respiration A - ATP Sr - Stimuli and responses Mc - Muscle contraction N - Nerve impulses BIOL5 2013 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n5 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10(a) The membranes of different types of cells are involved in many different functions (25 marks) Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10(a) 1. Membrane function as selectively permeable barrier 1. Transport mechanisms across membranes 1. Absorption and co-transport of sodium ions and glucose 2. Photosynthesis, chloroplast, thylakoids 2. Respiration, mitochondrion and cristae 2. Protein secretion, RER, SER and Golgi 3. Surface receptors/antigen and immune response 3. Cell division 3. Vertical and horizontal transmission – membranes and bacteria 3. Pacinian corpuscle 4. Tropisms – movement of IAA 4. Nerve impulses/action potentials 4. Synaptic transmission 4. Muscle contraction, calcium ion movement/storage 4. Hormones - eg Blood glucose regulation – insulin and glucagon 4. Osmosis, including water movement in plants 25 The emphasis in answers should be on the involvement of membranes in processes, not just the processes themselves Breadth, one mark for use of an example from each of the following approaches: 1. Membranes – basic functions 2. Organelle membranes 3. Cell surface membranes 4. Processes – eg protein secretion, synaptic transmission, cell division BIOL5 2013 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n6 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) There are many different types of relationships and interactions between organisms (25 marks) Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10(b) 1. Pathogens and effects on host 1. Cholera 1. TB 2. Taxonomy 2. Classification and evolution 2. Inheritance and evolution 2. Genetic code, universal 2. Behaviour 2. Populations and evolution, variation between individuals within a species 3. Relationships within ecosystems – eg predator/prey 3. Energy transfer in ecosystems 3. Nutrient cycles, the organisms involved 3. Succession, biodiversity, species and individuals in a community 4. Human impacts on the environment and its effect on relationships between organisms – including farming 4. Gene technology and GMO and selective breeding 4. Antibiotic resistance 25 The emphasis in answers should be on the relationships and interactions between organisms not just the topics themselves Breadth, one mark for use of an example from each of the following approaches – 3 max: 1. Pathogen and host 2. Evolution (related topics) 3. Ecological 4. Human intervention in relationships BIOL5 June 2012 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n7 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) The importance of shapes fitting together in cells and organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (a) Proteins and Enzymes 3.1.2 Enzyme properties and digestion 3.1.2 Protein structure 3.1.3 Plasma membrane structure and cell transport 3.1.6 Antigens, antibodies, B cells & T cells 3.1.6 Vaccines Nucleic Acids 3.2.2 Structure of DNA 3.2.5 DNA Replication (not PCR) 3.5.7 Transcription & translation 3.5.8 Transcriptional factors, oestrogen, siRNA 3.5.8 Restriction enzymes Physiology 3.2.4 Haemoglobin 3.5.2 Action potentials & synaptic transmission 3.5.3 Muscle contraction 3.5.4 Control of blood glucose concentration 3.5.5 Control of mammalian oestrous cycle 25 BIOL5 June 2012 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n8 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) How bacteria can affect the lives of humans and other organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (b) Bacteria and Disease 3.1.1 Pathogens 3.1.2 Lactose intolerance 3.1.3 Cholera 3.1.4 Tuberculosis 3.2.10 Resistance to antibiotics Ecological Importance 3.4.6 Carbon cycle 3.4.6 Nitrogen cycle 3.4.6 Eutrophication Making Use of Bacteria 3.5.8 Use of bacterial enzymes e.g. restriction endonuclease, DNA polymerase for PCR 3.5.8 Use of bacterial plasmids e.g. in vivo gene cloning, genetically- modified crops, gene therapy 3.5.8 Use of bacteria to produce useful chemicals 25 June 2011 Biol5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i1n9 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) Using DNA in science and technology Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (a) DNA and classification Structure of DNA Differences in DNA lead to genetic diversity Comparison of DNA base sequences DNA hybridisation Genetic engineering and making useful substances Plasmids The use of recombinant DNA to produce transformed organisms that benefit humans Other uses of DNA Cell cycle and treatment of cancer Gene therapy; Medical diagnosis and the treatment of human disease; The use of DNA probes to screen patients for clinically important genes. 25 June 2011 Biol5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n0 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) A cycle is a biological pathway or process in which the end product of one cycle becomes the starting point for the next. Write an essay about cycles in biology Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (b) Ecological cycles Nutrient cycles Carbon cycle Nitrogen cycle Biochemical cycles Enzyme action Synthesis of ATP from ADP Light-independent reaction The Krebs cycle Physiological and genetic cycles The mechanism of breathing The cardiac cycle The cell cycle Muscle contraction Oestrous cycle 25 2010 June Biol5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n1 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (a) Carbon dioxide may affect organisms directly or indirectly. Describe and explain these effects. Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (a) Carbon dioxide affects the physiology of organisms Pulmonary ventilation and the mechanism of breathing Light-independent reaction of photosynthesis. Limiting factors Role of chemoreceptors in controlling heart rate The direct effects of increasing carbon dioxide concentration Respiration, photosynthesis and human activity giving rise to short-term fluctuations and long-term change. Yield of crop plants Carbon cycle Indirect effects of increasing carbon dioxide concentration Role of carbon dioxide in producing global warming; Life cycles and number of insect pests; Distribution of animals and plants; Effect of temperature on enzymes; 25 2010 June Biol5 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n2 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. 10 (b) The causes of disease in humans Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 10 (b) Pathogens Pathogens include bacteria, viruses and fungi Pathogens cause disease by damaging cells and producing toxins Cholera bacteria produce toxins resulting in diarrhoea Symptoms and transmission of pulmonary tuberculosis Horizontal gene transmission and MRSA Lifestyle Risk factors associated with cancer and coronary heart disease The effects of fibrosis, asthma and emphysema on lung function The biological basis of heart disease Genetics Differences in bases may lead to non- functional enzymes Relationship between the cell cycle and cancer Proto-oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes Gene mutations 25 SPEC B Jan 2010 Unit 6/7/8 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n3 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Essay A: The movement of substances within living organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments 1. Osmosis 2. Across cell membranes 3. Movement of water/mineral ions in plants 4. Enzymes, kinetic energy and reactions 5. Gut and absorption 6. DNA Transcription and translation 7. Mitosis and Meiosis 8. Sperm and fertilisation 9. Blood vessels and heart 10. Exchange in capillaries 11. Electron transport 12. Nerve impulses/action potential 13. Synapses 14. Muscle contraction 15. Alveolar gas exchange 16. Translocation 17. Photosynthesis 18. Kidneys 25 Essay B: Cycles in Biology Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B 1. Large and small biological molecules, condensation and hydrolysis 2. Enzymes 3. Cell cycle – Mitosis and meiosis 4. PCR 5. Mammalian blood circulation 6. Calvin cycle 7. Krebs cycle 8. ATP and ADP 9. Negative feedback 10. Nitrogen cycle 11. Carbon cycle 12. Menstrual cycle 13. Muscle contraction 14. Nerve impulses 15. Predator prey 16. Electron transport chain 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n4 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. SPEC B June 2009 Unit 6/7/8 Essay A: Ions and organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A 1. Osmosis and turgor 2. Haemoglobin dissociation, pH and carbon dioxide 3. Uptake/movement of water/mineral ions by/in plants 4. Ions in biological molecules 5. Hydrogen, photosynthesis and respiration 6. Anaerobic respiration and lactate 7. Nerve impulses and synaptic transmission 8. Regulation of blood water potential/kidney function 9. Muscle contraction 10. Nitrogen cycle 11. Eutrophication 12. Movement across membranes 13. Cystic fibrosis 25 Essay B: DNA and the transfer of information Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B 1. Genes/how information is carried on 2. DNA 3. Replication of DNA 4. Cell division - Mitosis and meiosis 5. Transcription and translation 6. Mutation 7. Genetic engineering 8. Gene therapy 9. Genetically modified organisms 10. Variation (in populations) 11. Evolution 12. Inheritance 25 Any other sensible example of the transfer of information involving DNA should be credited. AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n5 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. SPEC B June 2008 Unit 6/7/8 (25 marks) Essay A: The part played by the movement of substances across cell membranes in the functioning of different organs and organ systems Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A 1. Plasma membranes and movement across 2. Gaseous exchange system/ lungs 3. Digestive system/small intestine 4. Blood vascular system 5. Transpiration/root/stem 6. Mass flow/leaf/stem 7. Nervous system/eye 8. Excretory system/ kidney 9. Muscle systems 10. Liver, blood glucose 11. Root mineral ions 12. Lungs cystic fibrosis 25 Any other sensible example of the movement of substances across cell membranes in the functioning of different organs and organ systems should be credited Essay B: The part played by enzymes in the functioning of different cells, tissues and organs Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B 1. Action of enzymes 2. Enzyme properties 3. Extracellular digestion 4. Nutrient cycles 5. Digestion in humans 6. Replication of DNA 7. Protein and enzyme synthesis 8. Metabolic pathways 9. Mutations 10. Coenzymes and enzyme action 11. Homeostasis 12. Neurone/synapse 13. Muscle contraction 14. Pesticide toxicity 25 Any other sensible example of the part played by enzymes in the functioning of different cells, tissues and organs should be credited. AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n6 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. SPEC B 2007 June series Unit 6/7/8 ESSAY A: Movements inside cells Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A 1. Plasma membranes and movement across 2. Protein synthesis 3. Movement through ER and Golgi 4. Cell division and chromosome movement 5. Water movement in plants/xylem 6. Translocation 7. Neurones and synaptic vesicles 8. Actin and myosin 9. DNA replication and mutation 10. Electron transport chains 11. Molecular/atomic/ionic movement 25 Essay B: Transfers through ecosystems Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B 1. Photosynthesis – energy transfer 2. Respiration – energy transfer 3. Carbon cycle 4. Nitrogen cycle 5. Food chains 6. Ecological pyramids 7. Pesticide toxicity/bioaccumulation 8. Eutrophication 9. Digestion and absorption 10. Transfer of genetic material 11. Water cycle 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n7 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. SPEC A Jan 2010 Unit 8 Essay A: Carbon dioxide in organisms and ecosystems Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A Biochemistry 14.6 The biochemistry of photosynthesis 14.8 The biochemistry of respiration 11.6 C4 photosynthesis in maize Physiology 15.4 Gas exchange surfaces 10.8 Changes is cardiac output and pulmonary ventilation with exercise 15.5 The transport of respiratory gases Ecology 11.6 The effect of carbon dioxide on productivity 14.9 Decomposition and recycling maintain the balance of nutrients in an ecosystem The greenhouse effect is not specifically mentioned but should be credited here if discussed. 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n8 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Essay B: Why the offspring produced by the same parents are different in appearance Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B Genes 11.3 Genes incorporate coded information which influence phenotype 14.2 Gene mutation Environment 14.2 Environment variation 15.7 Dietary requirements of insects Chromosomes and cells 11.2 and 14.1 Meiosis 14.1 Principles of Mendelian inheritance 14.2 Polygenetic inheritance 16.1 Gametes and gamete formation. Fertilisation 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i2n9 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. SPEC A Biology and Human Biology June 2009 Paper 8/9 Essay A: The uses of water in living organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A Water in chemical reactions 10.4 Condensation and hydrolysis 14.6 Photolysis 16.4 Digestion and absorption Water and physiology 10.7 Circulation Tissue fluid and its circulation 16.11 Temperature control 16.2 The fetus in its uterine environment Water and Osmosis 10.3 Water potential and osmosis 10.2 Cell walls and support in plants 16.11 Urine formation (Biology only) 25 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i3n0 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Essay B: The transfer of energy within and between organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B Autotrophic nutrition 14.6 Photosynthesis 11.6 Factors that limit the rate of photosynthesis Energy transfer 14.9 Carbon cycle 14.10 The influence of deforestation of carbon cycling 14.7 Ecological pyramids and the transfer of energy 16.4 Digestion and absorption Energy loss 14.8 Respiration and ATP 10.3 Active transport 15.9 Receptors convert stimuli into nerve impulses 25 SPEC A Biology and Human Biology June 2008 Paper 8/9 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i3n1 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Essay A: Hydrogen bonds and their importance in living organisms Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A Hydrogen bonds associated with the properties of water 15.1 The passage of water through a plant and cohesion tension Hydrogen bonds associated with secondary and tertiary structure 10.4 The structure of proteins, starch and cellulose 10.5 Enzymes Hydrogen bonds associated with nucleic acids 11.3 DNA as genetic material, structure of nucleic acids 11.4 Gene technology 25 Essay B: How nitrogen-containing substances are made available to and are used Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B Nutrient cycling Nitrogen cycle The influence of deforestation of nitrogen cycling The uses of proteins Proteins as biological molecules Enzymes and enzyme action Haemoglobin and the exchange of respiratory gases The use of membrane proteins in the nervous system The uses of nucleic acids and other nitrogen-containing substances DNA and protein synthesis Chlorophyll, NADP and photosynthesis ATP and respiration 25 SPEC A Biology and Human Biology June 2007 Paper 8/9 AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i3n2 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Write an essay on one of the following topics. You should select and use information from different parts of the specification. Credit will be given not only for the biological content, but also for the selection and use of relevant information and for the organisation and presentation of the essay. Essay A: Carbon dioxide in organisms and ecosystems Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay A Biochemistry The biochemistry of photosynthesis 14.6 The biochemistry of respiration 14.8 C4 photosynthesis in maize 11.6 Physiology Gas exchange surfaces 15.4 Changes in cardiac output and pulmonary ventilation with exercise 10.8 The transport of respiratory gases 15.5 Ecology The effect of carbon dioxide on productivity; 11.6 Decomposition and recycling maintain the balance of nutrients in an ecosystem 14.9 The greenhouse effect is not specifically mentioned but should be credited here if discussed 25 Essay B: Why the offspring produced by the same parents are different in appearance AQA Education (AQA) is a registered charity (number ) and a company limited by guarantee registered i3n3 of 33 England and Wales (number ). Our registered address is AQA, Devas Street, Manchester M15 6EX. Question Marking guidance Mark Comments Essay B Genes Genes incorporate coded information which influences phenotype 11.3 Gene mutation 14.2 Environment Environment variation 14.2 Dietary requirements of insects 15.7 Chromosomes and cells Meiosis 11.2 and 14.1 Principles of Mendelian inheritance 14.1 Polygenetic inheritance 14.2 Gametes and gamete formation. Fertilisation 16.1 25