GCSE (9–1) COMBINED SCIENCE A (GATEWAY SCIENCE) — June 2025 PAST PAPER:
Biology (Higher Tier). Merged Question Paper & Mark Scheme [OCR J250/08]
Exam Resource Summary
The June 2025 GCSE (9–1) Combined Science A (Gateway Science) Biology (Higher Tier) Paper
(OCR J250/08) provides a fully merged resource combining the complete examination paper
with its official mark scheme. This integrated format clearly shows how each question is
assessed, outlining examiner expectations and the criteria required for top-band performance at
Higher Tier. This component assesses students’ understanding of advanced biology concepts,
including cell structure and transport, DNA and genetics, natural selection and evolution, health
and disease, organisation of living systems, ecology, and the impact of humans on the
environment. Candidates must apply biological principles, analyse and interpret data, evaluate
experimental design, and develop clear scientific explanations supported by evidence. By
pairing each question with detailed marking guidance, the resource strengthens higher-level
reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills. It supports structured, precise responses and
provides focused preparation for the 2026 OCR GCSE Combined Science A (Gateway
Science) Biology (Higher Tier) examination.
OCR is an exempt Charity
Turn over
, 2
Section A
You should spend a maximum of 20 minutes on this section. Write your answer
to each question in the box provided.
1 The diagram shows a genetic cross for inheriting cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is a recessive inherited condition.
Egg
Cc
Sperm
Cc
C c
C C CC Cc
c c cC cc
What percentage of the offspring will have cystic fibrosis?
A 0%
B 25%
C 75%
D 100%
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025
, 3
2 Which pathway shows how nitrates are used by plants to make proteins?
A Nitrates amino acids proteins
B Nitrates carbohydrates proteins
C Nitrates DNA proteins
D Nitrates fatty acids proteins
Your answer [1]
3 Which term describes the interaction between the biotic and abiotic factors in the environment?
A Community
B Ecosystem
C Habitat
D Species
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025 Turn over
, 4
4 Water is recycled in the environment.
Which process increases the level of water in the atmosphere?
A Condensation
B Precipitation
C Translocation
D Transpiration
Your answer [1]
5 New drugs are tested in clinical trials.
A placebo looks like the drug being tested but has no medical effect.
Which row is the correct description for a double-blind placebo trial?
All patients receive the Patient and doctors know
drug who takes the drug
A no yes
B no no
C yes yes
D yes no
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025
Biology (Higher Tier). Merged Question Paper & Mark Scheme [OCR J250/08]
Exam Resource Summary
The June 2025 GCSE (9–1) Combined Science A (Gateway Science) Biology (Higher Tier) Paper
(OCR J250/08) provides a fully merged resource combining the complete examination paper
with its official mark scheme. This integrated format clearly shows how each question is
assessed, outlining examiner expectations and the criteria required for top-band performance at
Higher Tier. This component assesses students’ understanding of advanced biology concepts,
including cell structure and transport, DNA and genetics, natural selection and evolution, health
and disease, organisation of living systems, ecology, and the impact of humans on the
environment. Candidates must apply biological principles, analyse and interpret data, evaluate
experimental design, and develop clear scientific explanations supported by evidence. By
pairing each question with detailed marking guidance, the resource strengthens higher-level
reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills. It supports structured, precise responses and
provides focused preparation for the 2026 OCR GCSE Combined Science A (Gateway
Science) Biology (Higher Tier) examination.
OCR is an exempt Charity
Turn over
, 2
Section A
You should spend a maximum of 20 minutes on this section. Write your answer
to each question in the box provided.
1 The diagram shows a genetic cross for inheriting cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is a recessive inherited condition.
Egg
Cc
Sperm
Cc
C c
C C CC Cc
c c cC cc
What percentage of the offspring will have cystic fibrosis?
A 0%
B 25%
C 75%
D 100%
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025
, 3
2 Which pathway shows how nitrates are used by plants to make proteins?
A Nitrates amino acids proteins
B Nitrates carbohydrates proteins
C Nitrates DNA proteins
D Nitrates fatty acids proteins
Your answer [1]
3 Which term describes the interaction between the biotic and abiotic factors in the environment?
A Community
B Ecosystem
C Habitat
D Species
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025 Turn over
, 4
4 Water is recycled in the environment.
Which process increases the level of water in the atmosphere?
A Condensation
B Precipitation
C Translocation
D Transpiration
Your answer [1]
5 New drugs are tested in clinical trials.
A placebo looks like the drug being tested but has no medical effect.
Which row is the correct description for a double-blind placebo trial?
All patients receive the Patient and doctors know
drug who takes the drug
A no yes
B no no
C yes yes
D yes no
Your answer [1]
© OCR 2025
