2024_OCR - GCSE Combined Science A (Gateway
Science)
Biology (Higher Tier)
Merged Question Paper & Marking Scheme
(Friday 10 May 2024 – Morning)
Code: J250/07
, Oxford Cambridge and RSA
Friday 10 May 2024 – Morning
GCSE (9–1) Combined Science
A (Gateway Science)
J250/07 Biology (Higher Tier)
Time allowed: 1 hour 10 minutes
H
* 9 9 8 2 5 9 0 4 8 7 *
You must have:
• a ruler (cm/mm)
You can use:
• a scientific or graphical calculator
• an HB pencil
* J 2 5 0 0 7 *
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 60.
• 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 [601/8687/2] OCR is an exempt Charity
DC (ST/CT) 320472/6 Turn over
,Oxford Cambridge and RSA - GCSE (9–1) Combined Science A (Gateway Science) Exam
Overview
Exam Date: Friday, 10 May 2024 – Morning Session
Exam Code: J250/07 Biology (Higher Tier)
The GCSE Combined Science A (Gateway Science) J250/07 Biology exam for the Higher Tier
assesses students’ deeper understanding of biological principles and their ability to apply these
concepts in complex and unfamiliar contexts. The exam covers a wide range of biology topics,
focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. It is designed for Higher Tier
students, testing their advanced understanding of biological systems, processes, and concepts, as well
as their problem-solving abilities in biology.
Key Topics and Themes:
1. Cell Biology
o Cell Structure: In-depth understanding of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including
organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, ribosomes, and their
functions.
o Microscopy: Detailed knowledge of using microscopes, including the concepts of
magnification and resolution, and how to prepare biological samples for viewing.
o Cell Division: Understanding the processes of mitosis and meiosis, including the stages
and significance of each in growth, repair, and reproduction.
o Stem Cells: The role of stem cells in differentiation and their potential medical
applications, such as in regenerative medicine.
2. Organisation
o Human Digestive System: Knowledge of the structure and function of digestive organs
(mouth, stomach, small intestine, liver, pancreas) and the role of enzymes in breaking
down food.
o The Circulatory System: Understanding the structure and function of the heart, blood
vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries), and the process of blood circulation, including
oxygen and nutrient transport.
o Respiratory System: The function of the lungs and alveoli in gas exchange, and the
process of aerobic respiration.
o The Role of Enzymes: How enzymes are involved in digestion, metabolism, and other
biological processes, including factors that affect their activity (e.g., temperature, pH).
3. Bioenergetics
o Photosynthesis: A detailed understanding of the process of photosynthesis, including
the role of chlorophyll, light, carbon dioxide, and water in producing glucose and
oxygen, and factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis.
o Respiration: The differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration, the energy
produced in each process, and their roles in living organisms.
o Metabolism: The chemical reactions involved in metabolism, including the breakdown
of food molecules, the synthesis of biological molecules (proteins, starch, and
glycogen), and energy production.
4. Infection and Response
o Pathogens and Disease: Understanding different types of pathogens (bacteria, viruses,
fungi, protists), how they spread, and the diseases they cause.
o The Immune System: Detailed knowledge of the body's defense mechanisms,
including the roles of white blood cells, antibodies, and antigens in immune responses.
o Vaccination: The principles of vaccination, how they work, and their role in preventing
the spread of disease.
o Antibiotics and Resistance: How antibiotics work to treat bacterial infections, the
difference between antibiotics and painkillers, and the issue of antibiotic resistance.
5. Ecology
, oEcosystems: Understanding the components of ecosystems, including producers,
consumers, decomposers, and how energy is transferred through food chains and food
webs.
o Biotic and Abiotic Factors: The impact of living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic)
factors on organisms and their environments, such as temperature, moisture, light, and
predation.
o Biodiversity: The importance of biodiversity, its role in ecosystem stability, and the
effects of human activities on ecosystems, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate
change.
6. Genetics and Evolution
o Genetics and Inheritance: Understanding inheritance patterns, including dominant and
recessive alleles, genotype and phenotype, and the use of Punnett squares to predict
genetic outcomes.
o DNA and Genetic Engineering: Knowledge of the structure of DNA, how genes are
inherited, and genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR.
o Evolution: The theory of natural selection and how it leads to evolutionary change over
time, the evidence for evolution (fossils, genetic similarities), and concepts like
adaptation and speciation.
7. Human Biology and Homeostasis
o The Nervous System: Understanding how the nervous system controls responses to
stimuli, including the structure and function of neurons, synapses, and reflex arcs.
o Hormonal Control: The role of hormones in regulating body functions, including the
endocrine system, insulin regulation of blood glucose, and the menstrual cycle.
o Homeostasis: The body’s ability to maintain stable internal conditions, such as
temperature regulation, osmoregulation, and blood sugar control, to ensure optimal
functioning of cells and organs.
The Higher Tier Biology exam will require students to demonstrate their understanding of biological
concepts in greater depth, including their ability to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar scenarios,
interpret data, and solve complex biological problems. Students will also need to draw upon practical
knowledge of biological processes and systems.
