2024_OCR - GCSE Biology B (Twenty First
Century Science)
Depth in Biology (Foundation Tier)
Merged Question Paper & Marking Scheme
(Friday 7 June 2024 – Afternoon)
Code: J257/02
, Oxford Cambridge and RSA
Friday 7 June 2024 – Afternoon
GCSE (9–1) Biology B (Twenty First Century Science)
J257/02 Depth in Biology (Foundation Tier)
Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
You must have:
F
* 1 3 7 5 7 2 5 5 3 7 *
• a ruler (cm/mm)
You can use:
• an HB pencil
• a scientific or graphical calculator
* J 2 5 7 0 2 *
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 90.
• 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 20 pages.
ADVICE
• Read each question carefully before you start your answer.
© OCR 2024 [601/8506/5] OCR is an exempt Charity
DC (ST/CT) 343507/3 Turn over
,Oxford Cambridge and RSA - GCSE (9–1) Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) Exam
Overview
Exam Date: Friday, 7 June 2024 – Afternoon Session
Exam Code: J257/02 Depth in Biology (Foundation Tier)
The GCSE Biology B (Twenty First Century Science) J257/02 Depth in Biology exam assesses
students' deeper understanding of biological concepts, focusing on their ability to apply biological
knowledge to more complex scenarios. This exam builds on the fundamental biology topics covered in
the foundation tier and requires students to demonstrate both theoretical and practical understanding of
biological processes, structures, and systems.
Key Topics and Themes:
1. Cell Biology
o Cell Structure: Detailed knowledge of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, their
organelles (such as the nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, and ribosomes), and their
functions.
o Microscopy: Understanding how to use microscopes to observe biological samples,
including magnification, resolution, and sample preparation techniques.
o Cell Division: In-depth study of mitosis and meiosis, the processes by which cells
divide for growth, repair, and reproduction.
o Stem Cells: The role of stem cells in growth, differentiation, and potential applications
in medicine.
2. Organisation
o Human Digestive System: Knowledge of the organs involved in digestion (mouth,
stomach, small intestine, liver, pancreas) and how enzymes aid in food breakdown.
o Heart and Circulatory System: Understanding the structure and function of the heart
and blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries), and how the circulatory system
contributes to homeostasis.
o Respiratory System: The mechanics of breathing, gas exchange in the lungs, and the
importance of aerobic respiration in energy production.
3. Bioenergetics
o Photosynthesis: The process by which plants produce glucose from light energy,
carbon dioxide, and water. Understanding factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis.
o Respiration: Both aerobic and anaerobic respiration processes, including the
production of ATP (energy) in different conditions and their implications for energy
needs in organisms.
o Metabolism: How organisms convert nutrients into energy and how metabolic
pathways, like the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats, support life functions.
4. Infection and Response
o Pathogens and Disease: Identifying different types of pathogens (bacteria, viruses,
fungi, and protists) and the diseases they cause, as well as how they spread.
o The Immune System: Understanding how the body defends against pathogens,
including the role of white blood cells, antibodies, and the process of immunization.
o Antibiotics and Painkillers: The role of antibiotics in treating bacterial infections, the
risks associated with antibiotic resistance, and how painkillers function to alleviate
symptoms.
5. Ecology
o Ecosystems: Understanding how energy flows through ecosystems and the roles of
producers, consumers, and decomposers.
o Environmental Factors: The impact of both biotic and abiotic factors on ecosystems,
including temperature, light, moisture levels, and predation.
o Biodiversity: The importance of maintaining biodiversity and the impact of human
activities (such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change) on ecosystems.
, 6. Genetics and Evolution
o Genetics: Understanding inheritance patterns, such as dominant and recessive alleles,
genotype vs phenotype, and the use of Punnett squares to predict genetic outcomes.
o DNA and Genetic Engineering: The structure and function of DNA, inheritance of
traits, and the applications of genetic engineering, including CRISPR technology.
o Evolution: The process of natural selection, adaptation, and speciation, and how this
leads to evolutionary changes over time. Understanding the evidence for evolution
through fossils and comparative anatomy.
7. Human Biology and Homeostasis
o Nervous System: How the body detects and responds to stimuli, including the structure
and function of neurons, synapses, and reflex actions.
o Hormonal Control: The role of hormones in regulating key bodily functions, including
insulin regulation of blood sugar and the menstrual cycle.
o Homeostasis: The process of maintaining stable internal conditions, such as
temperature regulation, osmoregulation, and blood glucose control.
Assessment Overview:
The J257/02 exam will test students’ ability to apply and deepen their biological knowledge through a
series of questions that explore both fundamental concepts and more advanced topics. Questions will
require students to demonstrate their understanding of biological systems, processes, and their ability
to use scientific methods to solve problems.
