2024_OCR - GCSE Combined Science B (Twenty
First Century Science)
Combined Science (Higher Tier)
Merged Question Paper & Marking Scheme
(Friday 7 June 2024 – Afternoon)
Code: J260/08
, Oxford Cambridge and RSA
Friday 7 June 2024 – Afternoon
GCSE (9–1) Combined Science B
(Twenty First Century Science)
J260/08 Combined Science (Higher Tier)
Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
H
* 1 3 7 8 9 2 5 7 4 0 *
You must have:
• a ruler (cm/mm)
• the Data and Equation Sheet for GCSE (9–1)
Combined Science B (inside this document)
You can use:
• an HB pencil
• a scientific or graphical calculator
* J 2 6 0 0 8 *
Please write clearly in black ink. Do not write in the barcodes.
Centre number Candidate number
First name(s)
Last name
INSTRUCTIONS
• Use black ink. You can use an HB pencil, but only for graphs and diagrams.
• Write your answer to each question in the space provided. If you need extra space use the
lined pages at the end of this booklet. The question numbers must be clearly shown.
• Answer all the questions.
• Where appropriate, your answer should be supported with working. Marks might
be given for using a correct method, even if your answer is wrong.
INFORMATION
• The total mark for this paper is 75.
• The marks for each question are shown in brackets [ ].
• Quality of extended response will be assessed in questions marked with an asterisk (*).
• This document has 24 pages.
ADVICE
• Read each question carefully before you start your answer.
© OCR 2024 [601/8690/2] OCR is an exempt Charity
DC (SL/FC) 342919/4 Turn over
,Oxford Cambridge and RSA - GCSE (9–1) Combined Science B (Twenty First Century Science)
Exam Overview
Exam Date: Friday, 7 June 2024 – Afternoon Session
Exam Code: J260/08 Combined Science (Higher Tier)
The GCSE Combined Science B (Twenty First Century Science) J260/08 exam for the Higher Tier
assesses students' in-depth understanding of biology, chemistry, and physics. It requires students to
apply complex scientific principles, conduct critical analysis, and solve problems in real-world
scientific contexts. This exam will test both theoretical knowledge and practical application across the
three science disciplines.
Key Topics and Themes:
1. Biology
o Cell Biology: Structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the
role of organelles and cellular processes like mitosis and meiosis.
o Organisation: Detailed understanding of human body systems, including the digestive,
circulatory, and respiratory systems, and how they contribute to homeostasis.
o Bioenergetics: Photosynthesis, cellular respiration (aerobic and anaerobic), and
metabolic processes such as energy production and nutrient conversion.
o Infection and Response: Knowledge of pathogens, the immune system, vaccines, and
antibiotic resistance.
o Ecology: The study of ecosystems, biodiversity, energy flow, and human impacts on
the environment.
o Genetics and Evolution: Inheritance patterns, genetic modification, and natural
selection leading to evolution.
o Human Biology and Homeostasis: Nervous and hormonal control, including the
regulation of internal environments such as temperature, water, and glucose levels.
2. Chemistry
o Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table: Understanding atomic structure, electron
configuration, and the periodic trends of elements.
o Bonding and Structure: In-depth knowledge of ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding
and the properties associated with different substances.
o Chemical Changes: Types of chemical reactions (e.g., acid-base, combustion, and
oxidation), conservation of mass, and energy changes during reactions.
o Energy Changes: Understanding exothermic and endothermic reactions, and the
principles of energy conservation and transfer.
o Rates of Reaction and Equilibria: Analyzing factors that affect reaction rates and
dynamic equilibrium in reversible reactions.
o Organic Chemistry: Structure, properties, and uses of organic compounds, including
hydrocarbons and polymers.
o Chemistry in the Environment: The effects of human activities on ecosystems, air
pollution, and sustainable resource management.
3. Physics
o Energy: Understanding different energy types, the principle of energy conservation,
and energy transfer methods.
o Forces and Motion: Calculating and understanding motion, including speed, velocity,
acceleration, and the forces acting on objects.
o Waves: Properties of mechanical and electromagnetic waves, wave behavior, and their
applications in everyday life (e.g., light, sound).
o Electricity: Understanding electric circuits, Ohm's law, resistance, power calculations,
and energy consumption.
o Magnetism and Electromagnetism: The properties of magnets, electromagnetic
induction, and applications such as transformers and motors.
, o Space Physics: The solar system, stars, galaxies, and the universe, including the
formation and life cycle of stars.
o Energy Resources: The different types of energy resources (renewable and non-
renewable), their environmental impact, and sustainability.
This Higher Tier exam will require students to demonstrate a strong grasp of scientific knowledge and
to apply this understanding to solve complex scientific problems, interpret experimental data, and
analyze various scientific scenarios. Practical skills in science will also be tested.
