AQA GCSE Biology: the mark scheme language that gets the mark
313 wording rules from real AQA mark schemes and examiner reports, 2018–2025 · organised by topic
GCSE marks live and die on exact wording. AQA mark schemes spell it out: (allow …) lists the alternatives that still score, do not accept … names the answers that score nothing, and where a specific word is required, only that word earns the mark. Examiner reports say the same thing after every exam — what students had to say, and which popular phrasings were "insufficient". Everything below is taken from real AQA GCSE Biology mark schemes Mark scheme and real examiner reports Examiner report — nothing invented.
Quiz mode: the wording is hidden — read the source line, say the answer out loud, then tap the card to check.
4.1 Cell biology49
Mark schemeFunction of mitochondria: (site of aerobic) respiration / makes ATP / releases energy -- do not accept produce/make/create energy, do not accept anaerobic respirationAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.1
Mark schemeMitochondria (allow chromosomes, large ribosomes)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.1.1
Mark schemeVacuole (allow large / permanent vacuole)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.1.1
Mark schemeCell part containing genetic information: nucleus -- allow chromosomes / plasmidAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.2
Mark schemeHaemoglobin: binds/carries oxygen (allow carries more oxygen)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.1.2
Mark schemeThe plant cell has a cell wall which prevents it from bursting (allow red blood cell has no cell wall so it bursts)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.1.1.2
Mark scheme(To move nitrate ions) from a low(er) concentration (in the soil) to a high(er) concentration (in the root/cell) -- allow against/up the concentration gradientAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.1.3
Mark scheme(Cell would) have more detail / be at a higher resolution / see more sub-cellular structures (allow named examples such as ribosomes, mitochondria, cell membrane; allow 3D; allow black and white)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark scheme120 (µm) — final answer, allow conversion to µm at any stageAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark schemeFinal answer: magnification = x8010 (allow x8010.205, or an answer consistent with their rounded length)AQA GCSE AQA past paper · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark schemeIodine solution — to stain/see the parts of the cell (allow named sub-cellular structures eg nucleus, cytoplasm, cell wall, starch grains)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark schemeMagnification = 400 (do not accept if a unit is given)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark schemeThin layer — to help see individual cells (allow so light can penetrate)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.5
Mark schemeAllow the agar to cool and setAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.1.1.6
Mark schemeCorrect calculated value: 3.7994 cm2 (or 379.94 mm2, allow 3.8 or 380)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.1.1.6
Mark schemeCorrect final answer: 16 (do not accept if a unit is given)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.1.6
Mark schemeCytoplasm divides into two cells / cell membrane divides to form two cells (allow two new nuclei form / nucleus divides)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.2.2
Mark schemeOnly mitosis is involved (do not accept meiosis)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.2.2
Mark schemeWorking: 7/10 x 100 (allow 252/300 x 100, or an angle in the range 250-254 degrees)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.2.2
Mark scheme(So) will cure diseases where new cells are needed or cells are damaged (allow named examples eg anaemia, leukaemia, blood cancer/disorders, paralysis, diabetes)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.2.3
Mark scheme74 (:1) — nearest whole number, do not accept if unit givenAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeCorrect final answer: X = 3 (allow 3:1; do not accept if a unit is given)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeD has a smaller surface area to volume ratio (than B) — allow converse for BAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeFrom (an area of) high(er) concentration to (an area of) low(er) concentration (allow down/with the concentration gradient; do not accept movement from/to a concentration gradient)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeMovement/spreading out of molecules/particles (allow named substances/chemicals/gases/liquids)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeSurface area (allow surface area to volume ratio) -- size alone is not enoughAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeWater is in close proximity to the blood supply for a short diffusion distance (allow a counter-current flow to maintain the concentration gradient)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.3.1
Mark schemeBecause the solution in the cells/potato is less concentrated (more dilute) than outside -- must refer to water concentration correctly, do not accept "water moves from high to low concentration" without specifying waterAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeBecause the solution in the cells/potato is less concentrated (or more dilute) than outside — or converse phrasing about the outside solution — allow references to water concentration/potentialAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeBy osmosis (allow diffusion through a partially/selectively/semi permeable membrane)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeBy osmosis -- allow diffusion through a partially/selectively/semi permeable membraneAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeCorrect final answer: 8% (if no other mark awarded, allow -8% from a reversed subtraction)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeFinal answer to 1 decimal place: -18.3% (allow without negative sign)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeWater moves out of the cells/potato (allow 'pieces' for potato)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.2
Mark schemeActive transport is used to absorb mineral ions (allow minerals / ions)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.1.3.3
Mark schemeAny increase in yield/mass/income/sales must be balanced against the cost of the fertiliserAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.3
Examiner reportMany said that temperature was a limiting factor, which was ignored.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.1.1.2
Examiner reportAlthough many students gave precise answers, ‘sterilise equipment’ or ‘flame equipment’ was deemed too vague at this level.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.1.1.6
Examiner reportStudents achieving Level 1 gave one or more appropriate points from the indicative content, but these were insufficient to allow a valid outcome to their method. Other indicative content was often hinted at but was too vague to be considered. So, answers such as ‘other bacteria from the air should be prevented from entering the plate’, ‘the rod should be sterilised’ or ‘the bench should be cleaned’ were all insufficient as they did not describe how these steps should actually be carried out.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.1.1.6
Examiner reportFor Stage 3 many students only referred to two daughter cells forming, when reference to two identical cells was required.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.2.2
Examiner reportReference to genetically different or genetically identical was required.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.1.2.2
Examiner reportSome described mitosis as producing two genetically identical cells, but this was insufficient to explain why the whole plant was genetically identical.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.2.2
Examiner reportThis was a high demand question, and in particular the first marking point proved a good discriminator with very few students referring to ‘one set of chromosomes’ being pulled to each end of the cell, and instead giving vague references to ‘chromosomes pulling apart’, or ‘DNA halves’ which are insufficient at this level.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.1.2.2
Examiner reportAn increase in the concentration of the antibiotic was needed. A reference to a clear area then being seen, or that the bacteria would then be killed, was required. Simply saying the antibiotic would then work was insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.1.2.3
Examiner reportThese phrases were too imprecise and were not credited.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.1.2.3
Examiner reportLess than 10% of students gained both marks in this question and lots of responses about size were seen, which was not enough to gain the mark.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.1.3.1
Examiner reportThe correct process for how the antibiotic entered stem cells was needed in order to score any marks.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.1.3.1
Examiner reportThere is a subtle difference between having a ‘good blood supply’ (number of blood vessels) and having a ‘good blood flow’ (speed of blood) and the insufficient reference to blood flow was a common reason why MP2 was not credited. Reference to a constant or steady concentration gradient does not imply steepness, and ‘a’ gradient in place of a concentration gradient is insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.1.3.1
Examiner reportTwo ways that the lungs are adapted for efficient gas exchange were needed. Simply naming structures, such as the lungs have alveoli, was insufficient. A reference to many, or lots of alveoli was needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.1.3.1
4.2 Organisation58
Mark scheme(So) the tyrosinase / enzyme does not work (is inactive) -- do not accept denaturedAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeA chemical reaction occurs to produce smaller molecules (bonds between starch molecules are broken; allow maltose/sugars)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeAt 80 degrees C the amylase has been denatured (allow shape of amylase/active site changes; do not accept killed/died)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeSmall intestine (allow duodenum/ileum; do not accept large intestine)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeThe sample must be heated / boiled (to at least 60 degrees C)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeThe temperature inside the mother's body / nest is greater than 35 degrees C (allow mother's body temperature is 39 degrees C)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemepH of the small intestine is not neutralised/alkaline (allow pH is acid/low)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.1
Mark schemeDamaging the heart (allow blood clots, stroke, heart attack, irregular heartbeat)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.2
Mark schemeDifficulty gaining weight (allow increased sweating, chest infections, swelling)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.2
Mark schemeHeart attack (allow blood clots, chest pain, stroke)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.2
Mark schemeA = white blood cell (allow any named white blood cell, eg lymphocyte, neutrophil, phagocyte, monocyte)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.2.2.3
Mark schemeSo red blood cells clump together and are wider than / block the capillaries (allow capillaries burst)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.3
Mark scheme(So) more blood can flow through (allow more oxygen(ated blood) can flow through)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeAdvantage: drugs have been used for over 60 years so must be safe/trustedAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeCardiovascular disease / CHD / heart attack / heart disease / stroke (allow atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cancer, liver disease)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeDisadvantage: patient must always have a supply of drugs / could forget to take themAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeDisadvantage: statins take time to have an effect and must be taken long-term (patients might forget to take them)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeLess oxygen reaches the heart muscle (allow less respiration / less energy released, not produced/made/created)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeLower chance of failure within one year (allow "only a 5% chance of failure")AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeLower risk of a heart attack during the procedure. Ignore references to cost, and to it taking less time overallAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeNo need to stay as long in hospital, or can go home sooner / the same day (allow "only 2-3 hours in hospital", allow less scarring)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeNot as invasive, or no need for a major operation or a general anaesthetic (allow less chance of infection, only a small cut needed)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeOnly need one operation to treat multiple blockages, or can treat multiple blockages at one time (ignore references to anaesthetic, or to CABG being a long-term treatment)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeOpens/widens the artery (allow pushes blockage to the side)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemePatients with mechanical valves must take anti-clotting medicationAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2019 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeShorter recovery time, or back to a normal lifestyle quicker, or less time off work (allow "only 7 days recovery")AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.2.2.4
Mark schemeFind the mean number of bacteria and scale / multiply up (allow multiply by 50, or find the total and multiply by 5)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.5
Mark schemeCorrect relative risk read from the graph (approx. 1.8, allow 1.8-1.9)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2020 · spec 4.2.2.6
Mark schemeCorrect calculation set up: 116 multiplied by 694 000, divided by 100 000 (allow values in the range 114 to 118 for the rate)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.2.2.7
Mark schemeFinal answer correctly rounded to 3 significant figures: 805 (allow an incorrectly calculated number correctly rounded to 3 sig figs; if no other marks awarded, allow 1 mark for the ecf answer 5270)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.2.2.7
Mark schemeMelanin stops this (which can) lead(ing) to (skin) cancer (allow description of cancer eg tumours, uncontrolled cell division)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.7
Mark schemeTranspiration (stream) involves xylem and translocation involves phloem (allow dead cells vs living cells)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.1
Mark schemeCorrect final answer to 2 significant figures: 1.2 (allow 0.82 if numerator and denominator reversed)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.2
Mark schemeCorrect unrounded answer of 1.22... (allow 0.82... if numerator and denominator are reversed)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.2
Mark schemeTranspiration (stream) moves substances upwards and translocation moves substances upwards and downwards (allow unidirectional vs bidirectional; allow transpiration does not require energy and translocation does)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.2
Mark schemeXylem transports water/mineral ions / phloem transports dissolved sugars (allow sucrose; food alone is not sufficient)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportQuite a lot of students talked about long tubes, which was insufficient. A reference to them being hollow or empty was needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.2.1
Examiner reportA reference to the size of starch molecules, or that starch is insoluble, was needed for the first mark.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.1
Examiner reportComparative words such as ‘better’ or ‘faster’ were insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.1
Examiner reportReference to energy being released or emitted was required. Very few students realised that the layer of oil was needed to keep oxygen out of the mixture.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.2.2.1
Examiner reportSimply giving data was ignored, a clear pattern had to be described. A clear statement that a darker liquid would absorb more light was needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.1
Examiner reportThe most common error was in the first sentence, where students had to name the enzyme that breaks down starch.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.2.2.1
Examiner reportOnly a tenth of students gave a Level 2 response as differences and linked explanations were needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.2
Examiner reportStudents were presented with a diagram of the heart showing four labelled blood vessels and were required to match labels to a pressure value.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.2
Examiner reportThe idea of preventing backflow of blood, or keeping blood flowing in the correct direction was required.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.2
Examiner reportVague responses such as ‘bleeding’ or ‘blood loss’ alone were insufficient, as they lacked the necessary context linking them to the surgical procedure. However, the second point—referring to things ‘getting stuck in the tube’ was a commonly seen but was an insufficient answer.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.2
Examiner reportWhen comparing the structure of a vein to that of an artery comparative statements were needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.2.2.2
Examiner reportFor the award of the first marking point, the name of the type of blood vessel was ignored as this had already been asked for in question 07.1. Answers referring to ‘unblocking’ or ‘clearing’ the vessels, however, were not credited. References to stents ‘stopping blood clotting’ or to ‘keeping the heart beating’ were not credited for the second marking point, but were commonly seen.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.2.2.4
Examiner reportResponses that did not gain credit here were either: • too vague, such as ‘to stop damage’, ‘to prevent bleeding’ or ‘to keep the blood inside’.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.2.2.4
Examiner reportSome students did not make effective comparisons, using statements such as ‘high in fat’ rather than ‘higher in fat’ or simply repeated figures from the table, therefore, gaining no credit. However; as the evaluation was taken to be the comparison between the nutritional content of the two burgers, this was not required and so was ignored.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.2.2.4
Examiner report80% of students gained no credit in this question and found making conclusions based on the results in Table 5 very difficult.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.2.2.6
Examiner reportResponses such as ‘contains chloroplasts for photosynthesis’ were too vague, whereas answers specifying that the many chloroplasts absorb light for photosynthesis were awarded full credit.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.3.1
Examiner reportA large proportion of pupils stated that glucose and mineral ions were transported, which was ignored, unless a correct reference to sugars or sucrose was given.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportA reference to avoiding being bitten, not just to there being a physical barrier, was required.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2019 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportFor those students who performed the correct calculation in this question, many were not credited with MP3 as they mistakenly thought that 1.22 (2 decimal places) was the same as 2 significant figures.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportHowever, answers that referred only to ‘roots’ or incorrectly described the process as active transport were not credited.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportSaying it focuses ‘better’ or ‘clearer’ was insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2019 · spec 4.2.3.2
Examiner reportSimply saying air had to get in to the bottle was insufficient at this level of demand. These were all insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2019 · spec 4.2.3.2
4.3 Infection and response24
Mark schemeWash hands after using the toilet or being sick, or before preparing or handling food (ignore "wash hands" unqualified)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.3.1.1
Mark scheme(Number of cases) in men increases then decreases (if no other mark, allow fall-back: overall trend decreases in both)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.3.1.2
Mark scheme(Then) the number of new HIV cases decreased (eg 2014 to 2018) -- allow as a fallback single mark for an overall decrease, but do not accept an implication of an overall increaseAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.3.1.2
Mark schemeImmune system is damaged, weakened or does not function properly (allow "immunocompromised" or "lack of white blood cells")AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.3.1.2
Mark schemeThe number of new HIV cases increased (at first, eg 2010 to 2014) -- ignore unqualified numbersAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.3.1.2
Mark schemeWhite blood cells cannot kill the bacteria / Salmonella as effectively (allow fewer antibodies, less phagocytosis, or fewer antitoxins to counter toxins)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.3.1.2
Mark schemeIdentifies a shortage of magnesium (allow nitrate / iron) ions, or a lack of lightAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.3.1.4
Mark schemeSo antibodies cannot bind (to the antigens/red blood cells); allow no clumping of red blood cellsAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.3.1.6
Mark schemeSo antibodies released by the patient's white blood cells / lymphocytes cannot bind to the (liver) antigens / cells (allow phagocytes unable to identify / detect cells to engulf)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.3.1.6
Mark schemeE immediately follows C, giving the link E then A (allow the fallback order C, E, B, A, D for 1 mark if no other mark is awarded)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.3.1.7
Mark schemeWhite blood cells / lymphocytes produce antibodies (against the inactive virus) — do not accept phagocytesAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.3.1.7
Mark schemeB = tumour cell (allow myeloma)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.3.2.1
Mark schemeHIV/antigen/protein injected into a mouse (allow other small mammal)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.3.2.1
Mark scheme(Aphids) can fly to another plant, or another part of the plant (ignore "to fly" unqualified)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.3.3.1
Mark scheme(So) animals avoid the risk of being stung -- allow avoid the risk of painAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.3.3.2
Mark schemeThe hornet moth looks like the hornet (mimicry) -- allow animals think it is a hornetAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.3.3.2
Examiner reportA third of students said an electron microscope would be used to view the virus; most just said microscope, which was insufficient. About a third of students knew what type of calculation was required to work out how many times longer the spore was compared to the virus.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.3.1.1
Examiner reportBased on this information, students were required to say why the data supported all children being given a vaccination and to back up their statement with numerical evidence from Figure 9. Answers which matched both marks (17%) had to be clearly comparative, had to consider the severity of infection and had to give appropriate and accurate figures in support.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.3.1.2
Examiner reportThe command word in this question was ‘describe’ and no credit was given for added explanatory detail, which a number of students provided.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.3.1.2
Examiner reportThe high demand required to enter level 2 resulted in less than 6% of students making the leap, with just under 62% of students failing to even enter level 1, thus gaining no credit.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.3.1.3
Examiner reportAnother common omission was volume as ‘amount’ or ‘how much’ were too vague for the mark to be awarded.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.3.1.4
Examiner reportAnswers such as ‘cover yourself up’ or ‘use bug spray / repellent’ were not credited. ‘Wear more / thicker clothes’ was also deemed insufficient and ‘close windows / doors’ also failed to get credit without qualifying that this was only important in the evenings.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.3.1.5
Examiner reportMany students spent a lot of their answer describing that a hybridoma is formed when a mouse lymphocyte and tumour cell combine, but this gained no credit as it had been assessed in the previous question, and so wasted time and answer space. Very few described that the hybridoma is cloned (simply dividing by mitosis was frequently stated but gained no credit).AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.3.2.1
Examiner reportSome students divided values, rather than multiplying, as was needed, whilst others arrived at somewhat unlikely answers equivalent to many hundreds of grams, far exceeding the 200 g mass of plant tissue it was extracted from. Nearly half of all responses gained no credit – either because it was not attempted – or completely incorrect.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.3.3.1
4.4 Bioenergetics46
Mark scheme(Photosynthesis) produces oxygen, allow algae produce oxygenAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeAllow the pondweed to equilibrate / acclimatise in the light (for a few minutes) before taking measurementsAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeDeforestation (allow tree-planting/growing crops as activities that decrease CO2)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeGlucose (in either order) -- allow C6H12O6AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeIndependent variable: colour of light (allow wavelength of light)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeOxygen (in either order) -- allow O2AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeProduct (after the arrow): glucose (ignore sugar/carbohydrate; do not accept starch)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeReactants (before the arrow): carbon dioxide and water, either order (allow correct chemical symbols; ignore any attempt at balancing)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark schemeThe rate of photosynthesis increases -- ignore actual values quotedAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.1
Mark scheme(Amount/type of) fertiliser / minerals / ions / nutrients given to plants (kept the same) -- allow named ion eg nitrate/magnesium, allow type of compost/soilAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark scheme(Mass of) chlorophyll (allow number of chloroplasts)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeAllow the pondweed time to acclimatise/equilibrate before startingAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2019 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeAllow the pondweed time to equilibrate/acclimatise before recording resultsAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeIt would cost more (money) / would not increase profit -- allow reference to avoiding global warmingAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeIt would not increase the rate of photosynthesis (further) -- allow it would not change the rate of photosynthesisAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeSize of tomato plants, or size/number of leaves (kept the same) -- allow age of plantAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeStomata are open wider and for more time (allow description of the area of open stomata for width)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeThe rate of photosynthesis is faster / higher at 40 degrees C (allow the converse clearly stated for 10 degrees C)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.1.2
Mark schemeLess chlorophyll (allow fewer chloroplasts / less light absorbed)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.4.1.3
Mark schemeAerobic occurs (mainly) in the mitochondria and anaerobic does not (allow anaerobic only occurs in cytoplasm)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.4.2.1
Mark schemeAnaerobic releases less energy than aerobic (do not accept produces/creates less energy; allow releases less ATP)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.4.2.1
Mark schemeD has a larger surface area to volume ratio and so will lose heat more quickly (per unit volume than E) — allow converse for EAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.2.1
Mark schemeDue to incomplete breakdown / oxidation of glucose (allow glucose only broken down to lactic acid)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.2.1
Mark schemePerson R's heart rate rose less overall (after 5 minutes of exercise) than S's — allow correct use of figures, e.g. R increased by 39 bpm / 65% and S by 54 bpm / 69%. Ignore lack of unitsAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.4.2.2
Mark schemePerson R's heart rate rose more slowly than person S's (allow the converse)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.4.2.2
Mark scheme(Nitrate ions are needed) to make proteins/amino acids (allow chlorophyll/DNA/ATP/nucleic acid)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.4.2.3
Mark scheme(So) needs to generate/release more heat (to keep itself warm) — do not accept energy produced/made/createdAQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.2.3
Mark schemeBuilding larger molecules (allow cell division)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.4.2.3
Examiner reportIn order to access Level 2 references to both photosynthesis and respiration, as well as to both gases, were needed. In order to access Level 3 an explanation of the gas exchange in all three situations was needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.4.1.1
Examiner reportThis was an extended response question and was set mainly at high demand, thus, considerable detail and the linking of ideas was required to gain access to higher marks. One significant misunderstanding of what was required was by those students who often used at least half the available space describing how genetic modification is carried out, for no credit, as this had not been requested.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.4.1.1
Examiner reportAnswers such as this gained no credit, and almost 60% of student gained zero marks.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.4.1.2
Examiner reportFor the reason, a definition of diffusion was insufficient; a comparison was required.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Examiner reportThis question was another example of where poor articulation and lack of explanatory detail cost some students marks; for example, phrases such as ‘he would get the same result’ was not enough to gain the mark.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Examiner reportWhilst some acknowledged that the stomata open wider in low atmospheric carbon dioxide, very few managed to recognise that the stomata were also open for a longer period of time; both of these ideas were needed for mark point 1.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.2
Examiner reporthumidity, were ignored and any suggestion that wind was a factor was not accepted.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.1.2
Examiner reportHigh-level answers had to include the role of microorganisms, the release of carbon dioxide, the use of carbon dioxide by trees in photosynthesis and the release and use of nitrate ions for making a named organic nitrogen-containing compound in the trees.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.4.1.3
Examiner reportIn 01.4, many thought the function of a muscle cell is for strength, which was ignored. A reference to movement or contraction was needed.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.4.1.3
Examiner reportStudents were required to provide a response detailing the reasons why a tree might die if moth larvae damaged the roots, with a link(s) to the impact the reason(s) would have on the tree. To achieve marks in both levels 2 and 3, correct linking was required, hence why many students limited themselves to level 1, as they failed to make the link between the effect of the damage and the consequence.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.1.3
Examiner report45% of students realised that a drink with no caffeine was needed to be able to see the effect of caffeine on reaction time.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2019 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportA Level 3 response needed to include the importance of carrying out the test. It was most common to see reference to how Type 2 is treated, although it was often expressed as what is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes instead which was insufficient to answer this question.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportDescribing the presence of lactic acid in the blood was insufficient for this mark, as the figure shows there was always some lactic acid present. Vague descriptions such as ‘oxygen flushing out the lactic acid’, ‘limiting the effects of lactic acid’ or ‘neutralising the lactic acid’ were insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportMajor problems included a lack of specific biological detail coupled with insufficient breadth of coverage for a variety of named pollutants.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportSome students stated that you need lots of glucose for energy which was insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportStudents who went into all the detail they knew regarding the comparison of aerobic and anaerobic respiration frequently gained the first mark (26%), as irrelevant information was ignored.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.4.2.1
Examiner reportStudents must take care not to repeat information in the question stem without adding value to this; thus, an answer stating that anabolic steroids improve performance was insufficient.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.4.2.2
Examiner report33% of students scored no credit at all.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.4.2.3
4.5 Homeostasis and response40
Mark schemeLess sweating occurs (do not accept "no sweating")AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.5.1
Mark schemeTherefore impulses in the relay neurone are more frequent (allow faster, or not delayed/reduced)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.5.2
Mark schemeCorrect substitution: t = sqrt(2 x 16 / 980) (allow use of the median value of 15 giving sqrt(2 x 15/980) for consequential credit if consistent)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.2.1
Mark schemeImpulses are generated / transmitted / travel (allow electrical signals)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.2.3
Mark schemeSo less heat is lost, or less cooling (allow less heat used for evaporation of sweat/water)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.5.2.4
Mark schemeThe outside environment is cooler (allow less than 35 degrees C)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.2.4
Mark schemePerson C has a higher insulin concentration than the mean (comparative, may use figures) -- do not accept higher cholesterolAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.3.2
Mark schemeSo less energy is released/transferred (or there is less muscle contraction), do not accept energy is produced/made/createdAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.3.2
Mark schemeThe percentage of people with Type 2 diabetes increases with age (allow converse, or reference to one end of the age range)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.3.2
Mark schemeThe percentage of people with Type 2 diabetes increases with increased body mass / weight / obesity (allow converse, or reference to one end of the weight scale)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.3.2
Mark schemeThen blood glucose concentration decreases (allow decreases at the end, or returns to normal, after a peak)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.5.3.2
Mark schemeAdrenaline increases heart rate (allow increases blood flow)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.5.3.6
Mark schemeTo move muscles / release energy or heat to increase body temperature (allow shivering)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.6
Mark schemeRooting powders (allow to grow plants from cuttings)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.4.2
Mark schemeTo produce bigger fruits (allow fruit ripening simultaneously)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.4.2
Mark schemeTo promote / start / initiate / force flowering (allow grow more flowers)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.4.2
Examiner reportDescriptions of optimum, such as ‘ideal conditions’, were insufficient. Many students gave answers that were too vague, such as ‘needed for organs to work’, or stated that hypothermia or hyperthermia would occur.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.1
Examiner reportIn this instance, the student also refers to ‘impulses’ as ‘messages’, which is insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.5.2
Examiner reportA few students transferred the numbers from the table incorrectly, ending up with the wrong answer and so could gain no credit.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.2.1
Examiner reportA number of students gave vague responses such as ‘repeat it’ or ‘put the ruler closer to the hand’ which were insufficient for credit at this level.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.2.1
Examiner reportFor bullet point 2 in particular, students gave vague statements such as ‘drop from same height’ or ‘start with ruler between the finger and thumb’ which were not credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.5.2.1
Examiner reportHowever, many students are still giving answers which are too vague to gain credit, such as ‘GM crops’ or ‘disease resistance’.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2019 · spec 4.5.2.3
Examiner reportStudents were required to give two details from the muscles contracting, reducing the size of the pupil and a decrease in the amount of light entering the eye.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.5.2.3
Examiner reportSince a comparison of temperature variation in the echidna and the human was required, using data from the graphs in Figures 11 and 12, it was essential to quote or manipulate numbers from the graphs and to state which variation was the greater.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.5.2.4
Examiner reportFood and drink were controlled, so references to controlling caffeine and alcohol intake could not be credited.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.3.2
Examiner reportReferences to diets were often too vague, such as ‘go on a diet’ or ‘eat healthy food’.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.5.3.2
Examiner reportWhether blood glucose concentration would be increased or decreased was given in similar proportions; however many appeared to misunderstand what was required on the ‘effect’ line.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.3.2
Examiner reportA ‘mathematical’ reason was required as to why these points were negative, so ideas related to errors, or the method were not relevant.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2019 · spec 4.5.3.3
Examiner reportNo further overall judgement was required. Most students appeared unaware that patients on dialysis must also take drugs, so simply referring to the inconvenience of drug taking was insufficient; the consequences of the different types of drug were required. In order to gain marks at the highest level, answers needed to include both advantages and disadvantages of a kidney transplant.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.3
Examiner reportSome details of how the kidneys function were required to answer this question about why substance P would be found in the urine, namely that it would be filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and not reabsorbed.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.5.3.3
Examiner reportHere students were required to explain the link between lack of FSH in the woman’s blood and the lack of breast development.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.4
Examiner reportSome students went somewhat over the top and suggested that castration (often in the vernacular) was an appropriate method of contraception and although this would be effective, the method was not credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.3.4
Examiner reportFor marking point 3, ‘the lining is prepared for pregnancy’ was common, but insufficient, because this did not add to the information given in the question.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.5
Examiner reportFor the first mark, students had to refer only to FSH and LH being given to the female to stimulate maturation of eggs. No credit was given for this. The term ‘fertilisation’/‘fusion’ was required or a suitable description of sperm being injected into eggs (ICSI).AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.3.5
Examiner reportThe first reference is too vague to award bullet point 1. Other insufficient answers referred to the embryo or egg not being able to consent or the misconception that IVF allows parents to choose characteristics or will lead to designer babies.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.5
Examiner reportTwo methods of contraception that use hormones were required here and, although over three-quarters of students knew at least one, fewer than a half could give two.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.5
Examiner reportIt was insufficient to say ‘controls’ or ‘helps’ metabolic rate: there needed to be an indication of an increase. The best responses gained marking point 3 and clearly understood how negative feedback applies in this situation, but weaker responses simply stated that it was negative feedback, or described negative feedback in general terms, which was insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.5.3.6
Examiner reportSome answers lacked detail such as ‘increased awareness’ or ‘they have more energy’ which are insufficient for credit at this level.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.3.7
Examiner reportIdeas about validity, accuracy and repeatability were not uncommon, but were not credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.5.4.1
Examiner reportA lot of responses referred to ‘ending seed dormancy’ which does not answer the question and therefore could not be credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.5.4.2
4.6 Inheritance, variation and evolution41
Mark scheme(So) offspring have unique / different / random combinations of alleles / genes / chromosomes from each parent (allow gametes fuse creating unique combinations)AQA GCSE AQA past paper · spec 4.6.1.2
Mark schemeDouble (allow two strands)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.6.1.4
Mark schemeHelix (allow twisted / spiral / coiled)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.6.1.4
Mark schemeGenotype HH (allow homozygous dominant)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.6.1.6
Mark schemePerson 1 has a child (person 5) who does not have polydactyly, so must also carry a d allele (person 5 must be dd, inheriting d from person 1)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.6.1.6
Mark schemePerson 1 has polydactyly, so must carry the dominant allele DAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.6.1.6
Mark schemeTo have CF, a person must have two copies of the CF allele (be homozygous recessive)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.6.1.6
Mark schemeMust keep (certain) amino acids in a low / small amountAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.6.1.7
Mark schemeThere is more competition for seeds/food on Isabela; allow less competition on DaphneAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.6.2.1
Mark schemeBirds with larger beaks get enough food to survive and reproduce on Isabela; allow birds with smaller/medium beaks survive on DaphneAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.6.2.2
Mark schemeThere is a large range of seed/food sizes (or larger seeds) available on Isabela; allow a small(er) range of seeds on DaphneAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.6.2.2
Mark schemeGM may allow crops to be resistant to a wider range of pests/diseasesAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.6.2.4
Mark schemeA fossil is the remains of an organism (allow remains of an animal/plant)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.6.3.5
Mark schemeFrom a long time ago (allow thousands/millions of years ago)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.6.3.5
Mark scheme(New) disease / pathogen (allow named example)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark scheme(New) predators (allow hunters/poachers)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark scheme(New) predators (allow named example, allow hunters)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeCompetition for food (allow lack of food)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeCompetition for mates (allow lack of mates)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeCorrect final answer: 2,500,000 or 2.5 million years (must include 'million')AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2020 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeDrought / ice age / global warming (allow climate change)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeFirst cause — any one of: drought / ice age or global warming / volcanic activity (allow earthquake, tsunami) / asteroid or meteor collision / (new) predators (allow hunters, poachers) / (new) disease or named pathogen / competition for food or mates / lack of habitat or habitat change. Ignore pollution.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeSecond cause — a different one from the same list. If no other mark is awarded, allow natural disaster / climate change / catastrophic event / environmental change for 1 mark.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeVolcanic activity / asteroid collision (allow catastrophic event or natural disaster)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Mark schemeClass = insecta (allow insects)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.4
Mark schemeKingdom = animalia (allow animals)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.4
Examiner report‘Half of the rabbits DNA’ is insufficiently clear as to which ‘half’ is in the sperm cell, therefore is not equivalent to marking point 1.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.6.1.1
Examiner reportFor bullet points 2 through to 6, a clear link to a survival advantage was required. Many responses stated that ‘less energy was needed’, or ‘only one parent needed’ but then did not link it to the appropriate survival advantage and as such could not be awarded credit.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.6.1.3
Examiner reportA description of a quadrat was required for this question. The most common insufficient answers referred to ‘grids’ or ‘internal squares’ only, which failed to describe the outside structure.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2019 · spec 4.6.1.6
Examiner reportSome insufficient responses gave examples such as Hh, but did not answer the question.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.6.2.1
Examiner reportSeveral good answers were seen but sadly students had only referred to ‘variation’ and not ‘genetic variation’ and so could not be credited. In addition, some responses correctly stated that ‘seed dispersal would lead to less competition’ but then didn’t qualify this with any of the required examples from the mark scheme and as such were not credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.6.2.2
Examiner reportMore specific conditions, such as temperature, lighting, amount or type of food, all being kept indoors or all outdoors, were required.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.6.2.3
Examiner reportResponses relating to the fish being ‘healthier’, ‘fresher’ or ‘higher quality’ were insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.6.2.3
Examiner reportThere were many responses that were too vague to score marks.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.6.2.3
Examiner reportA reference to ‘animals’ or ‘humans’ was required to gain credit here, rather than potential effects on the plants themselves. However, on this latter point, a ‘reduction in variation’ was not credited, often also being linked incorrectly to the idea that all crops could be wiped out by a single pathogen. Simply ‘increased cost’ was also insufficient to gain credit, students needed to indicate what that cost might be, either for purchasing seeds or the cost of the product to consumers.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.6.2.4
Examiner reportInsufficient responses included ‘there not being any plesiosaurs alive’ or ‘none still living to study’, that ‘no-one saw them’ or ‘you couldn’t tell how old the fossils were’.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.6.3.2
Examiner reportQuite a few students referred to ‘technology having not advanced at the time’ which did not answer the question and was too vague for credit. Some pupils referred to scientific terms or discoveries that did not relate to the time period and thus could not be credited.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.6.3.3
Examiner reportStudents were provided with the length of the fossil image and the relevant magnification factor and were required to calculate the real length of the fossil.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.6.3.5
Examiner reportCommon insufficient answers included ‘changes’ in temperature (which happen by the hour) and unsuitable ‘weather’ or ‘environmental change’, each of which is too vague.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.6.3.6
Examiner reportIn 03.4, many students did not move beyond the idea that had been given in the question, that humans were not alive when the fungus was alive and therefore there are no records of the fungus; this was insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.6.4
Examiner reportStudents were required to recall the classification hierarchy, completing a partial classification using given terms.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.6.4
4.7 Ecology55
Mark schemeSupport (allow turgor / fills the vacuole / opening of stomata / prevents wilting)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7
Mark schemeAbiotic: minerals / ions (allow salts, allow named ion)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.1
Mark schemeAbiotic: pH of soil (allow acidity / alkalinity)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.1
Mark schemeAbiotic: water (allow moisture / humidity / rain(fall), allow dryness)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.1
Mark schemeBiotic: food (allow amount of dead / decaying matter in soil)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.1
Mark schemeBiotic: disease / pathogens / bacteria / fungi (allow microorganisms / microbes / parasites)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeCorrect final answer of 28 (%), rounded to nearest whole number (allow student's incorrectly calculated percentage rounded correctly)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeHerbivores (grazing animals, allow named example)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeLight (intensity), allow shadeAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeMineral(s) / ions / salts (allow nitrate, magnesium, nitrogen, nutrients)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeMinerals/ions/salts (allow named example eg nitrate, phosphate, fertiliser)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeNo mayfly nymphs at site A and mayfly nymphs present at site B (0 vs 15), allow more mayfly nymphs at B than at AAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.2
Mark schemeBiotic: predators / consumers / carnivores (allow named example, eg birds)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.3
Mark schemeUse of weedkiller (allow wind, oxygen/air in the soil)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.1.3
Mark schemeWater (allow rain/moisture)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.1.3
Mark schemeEstimate the actual percentage cover in the quadrat instead of counting squares (allow use a point quadrat)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.2.1
Mark schemePlace (many) more quadrats (allow repeat / combine results with other students)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.2.1
Mark schemeSmaller volume (allow (some) liquid / cells would leak out from under the coverslip)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.2.1
Mark schemeBacteria (allow singular)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.7.2.2
Mark schemeProcess 3 = precipitation (allow rain(ing)/rainfall or named precipitation)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.2.2
Mark schemeProcess 4 = draining/drainage (allow run-off, percolation, infiltration, groundwater/underground flow)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.2.2
Mark schemeTherefore respiration (of decomposers/bacteria) releases carbon dioxide (do not accept anaerobic respiration)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.7.2.2
Mark schemeAbove 15°C, the time taken (to reach pH 5) stays the same / remains constant (allow converse)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.7.2.3
Mark schemeAs temperature increases up to 15°C, the time taken (to reach pH 5) decreases (allow converse)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.7.2.3
Mark schemeCorrectly reads pH at day 2 as 6.0 and at day 3 as 4.7 (allow small tolerance)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.7.2.3
Mark scheme(After Site A) as bacteria decrease, protozoa also decrease (allow when bacteria are low, protozoa are low)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeCorrect answer: 3.75 (allow a range from using 5.9-6.1 for the year-2000 reading)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2020 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeFertiliser (allow nitrate / phosphate)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeMore sludge worms at site A than at site B (80 vs 2), allow fewer sludge worms at B than at AAQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemePesticide was washed into the river (allow spray drift / run-off / carried by rainfall)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeSewage (allow organic matter / faeces / urine / urea)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeToxic chemicals (allow a named example such as mercury, sulfur dioxide, acid rain)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Mark schemeAs compost (allow for growing plants, to improve soil drainage/texture/quality, as a building material, as animal feed/supplement)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.3.3
Mark schemeFor burning / combustion (allow as a fuel)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.3.3
Mark schemeCombustion (allow named example eg burning fuels, driving cars, power stations)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.3.4
Mark schemeTo allow comparison (between study areas/with the control)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.7.3.4
Mark schemeGM may allow crops to be stored for longerAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.7.3.5
Mark schemeThis is because there is less photosynthesis (allow more decay or burning of plants)AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2023 · spec 4.7.3.5
Mark schemeGM may allow crops to grow in a wider range of conditionsAQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2024 · spec 4.7.3.6
Mark schemeBy photosynthesis (allow for 1 mark if no other point given)AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2021 · spec 4.7.4.3
Mark schemeSecond reason — so Fusarium can: get rid of sufficient carbon dioxide (allow waste) / be kept at a suitable temperature (allow "to avoid clumping")AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2018 · spec 4.7.5.4
Examiner reportA commonly seen insufficient response was ‘the GM crops are genetically identical’ and some students wrote about monoculture. A frequently seen insufficient idea was that growing GM crops would take up more land leaving less habitat space for animals.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.1.1
Examiner reportAnswers such as measure the soil, or measure the acid, were insufficient.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.2
Examiner reportA significant proportion of weaker students appeared to have a poor understanding of what was required and copied out the four bullet points regarding features of earthworms into the four available spaces or sometimes decided on a couple of factors and wrote them in both sections to gain one or two marks.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2022 · spec 4.7.1.3
Examiner reportAt Level 1, students needed to give some indicative content that might be a consequence or an environmental implication.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.7.2.1
Examiner reportFor Level 3 (5‒6 marks), students needed to give logically linked explanations relating to different types of pollution.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.2.1
Examiner reportMany students missed the prompt that they needed to include calculations which limited their responses and prevented the awarding of marking points 2 and 4. Commonly seen insufficient answers were relating to the time involved e.g. Quite a few realised B had 100 squares so stated that this would be easier to calculate a percentage which was insufficient for marking point 4.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.2.1
Examiner reportSome responses were too vague at this level, therefore ‘transport’ was insufficient, but ‘fuel is burnt or used to transport the animals/meat’ was acceptable.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.2.2
Examiner reportAn explanation was required for why the pH changed more quickly at 15 C than at 5 C.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2023 · spec 4.7.2.3
Examiner reportStudents who tried to use data to support the conclusion often just gave the numbers for the production from the two types of manure after the first week which was insufficient for credit, without further qualification.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2025 · spec 4.7.2.3
Examiner reportStudents were required to give a detailed explanation of how the destruction of peat bogs could affect biodiversity both in the local area and globally.AQA GCSE Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.2.4
Examiner reportStudents need to be careful in their use of the word ‘affected’ as this was too vague for this marking point.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2025 · spec 4.7.3.1
Examiner reportFor the first bullet point, increasing mass was ignored.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2022 · spec 4.7.3.2
Examiner reportMany attempts at other points were too vague.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Higher, 2024 · spec 4.7.3.2
Examiner reportSuggestions that would maintain, or decrease the rate of biodiversity decline, such as ‘stop hunting’ may maintain, but not increase biodiversity, and therefore were considered to be insufficient at this level.AQA GCSE Combined Science Biology Paper 2, Foundation, 2021 · spec 4.7.3.4
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