GCSE Biology Foundation Tier Paper 2F - June 2021

Exam Structure

• Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Maximum mark: 100
• Materials required: Ruler, scientific calculator
• Instructions:
  • Use black ink or black ball-point pen
  • Answer all questions in provided spaces
  • Use lined pages for extra answers, marking the question number
  • Show calculations clearly
  • Ensure good English and presentation

Key Topics Covered in the Exam

1. Theory of Evolution

• Scientists: Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace proposed the evolution by natural selection.
• Fossils: Provide evidence for evolution.
  • Definition: Remains or impressions of prehistoric organisms.
  • Formation example: Dinosaur footprints were formed by walking on mud.
• Extinction Causes: Natural disasters, changes in environment, human activities.

2. Hormonal Control in the Human Body

• Pituitary Gland: Located in diagram option A.
• Pancreas: Located in diagram option B.
• Insulin Function: Decreases blood glucose by targeting the liver.
• Glucose Storage: Stored as glycogen.

3. Photosynthesis & Food Chains

• Photosynthesis Requirements: Carbon dioxide and water are necessary.
• Energy Source: Light is needed for photosynthesis.
• Biomass Pyramid: Correct representation needed for shown food chain.
• Herring Population: Impact of overfishing and conservation efforts.

4. Human Eye

• Eye Structures: Identifying key structures like cornea, lens, optic nerve.
• Refraction Changes: Lens becomes thicker to focus on close objects.

5. Genetics and Biodiversity

• Potato Blight: Caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans.
• Genetics: Understanding of Rr genotype crosses; 75% show resistance.
• Biodiversity: Impact of pesticide runoff into rivers.

6. Environmental Sampling

• Quadrat Method: Use random placement for accurate sampling.
• Improvements: Increase sample size, random sampling.
• Environmental Factors: Light, temperature, water availability.

7. Carbon Dioxide Concentration

• Human Impact: Burning fossil fuels and deforestation increase CO2.
• Environmental Effects: Global warming, impact on ecosystems.

8. DNA and Cell Division

• DNA Structure: Contains chromosomes and nucleotides (A, C, G, T).
• Cell Division: Mitosis vs Meiosis for different cell functions.

9. Milk Decay Experiment

• Temperature Control: Important for consistent results in decay.
• pH Monitoring: Represents decay rate.

10. Body Temperature Regulation

• Thermoregulation: Body's response to temperature changes, sweating.
• Sweating Rate: Aids in maintaining body temperature.

11. Composting and Recycling

• Decomposition: Role of microorganisms in nutrient cycling.
• Nutrient Utilization: Recycled nutrients are reused by plants.

Study Tips:

• Understand concepts rather than rote memorization.
• Practice drawing diagrams, especially for processes and body systems.
• Use practice questions to test understanding of each topic.