Four plants all have genotype RR at one tested gene, but their final heights are 14, 19, 24 and 27 cm. The plants grew with different supplies of water. A student claims that these results show height cannot be inherited.
.1
Explain why the student’s conclusion is not justified.
[3 marks]
.2
Suggest how to test the effect of water while reducing genetic differences between plants.
[2 marks]
6 marksFoundation and Higher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
Students want to test whether doing mental arithmetic changes ruler-drop reaction time. They will use a safe classroom investigation with volunteers. You may compare drop distances directly: longer distances indicate slower reactions.
Plan the investigation so that the results can support a valid comparison.
[6 marks]
6 marksHigher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A hospital reduces unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and improves hand hygiene. A report says that only developing new antibiotics can limit resistant infections.
Evaluate the report’s claim using natural selection and transmission.
[6 marks]
4 marksFoundation and Higher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A virus damages immune cells. Patients later get frequent infections from other pathogens. Long illness prevents some patients from working or meeting friends.
.1
Explain why other infections become more frequent.
[2 marks]
.2
Suggest two links between long illness and poorer mental health.
[2 marks]
4 marksHigher
Spec and skills
Original practice question
Answer and supported method checks
A clinic diagnoses gonorrhoea in a patient with pain on urination. An initial antibiotic fails; tests identify a resistant bacterial strain.
.1
Explain why an antibiotic can be appropriate for gonorrhoea but this antibiotic failed.
[2 marks]
.2
Explain how a barrier method reduces transmission and why pain relief alone does not prevent spread.
