Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield)
Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs Exam Questions
Free Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) exam questions on Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs, with mark schemes. Covers genetically modified organisms, the Human Genome Project, personalised medicine and drug development.
Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs exam questions
These packs of real past exam questions cover the whole of Topic 8: Grey Matter, including Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs. Work through every question on this sub-topic, then mark your answers against the mark scheme.
StemUp mark scheme flashcards
Edexcel A Level Biology A (SNAB) 9BN0 Flashcards (Anki & Quizlet)
Every answer is written in mark scheme wording, so you learn exactly what examiners give marks for. Use them on Anki or Quizlet, then test yourself with the questions on this page.
From £10.99View flashcards
About Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs
This part of Topic 8 covers how biotechnology produces drugs and treatments, with ethical issues.
What you need to know
- Genetic modification Producing drugs using GM organisms, with the benefits and risks.
- Human Genome Project Its impact on drug development and personalised medicine.
- Drug development How drugs are tested and how genetic variation affects responses.
- Ethics Concerns about GM crops, animals and patenting.
Common mistakes in Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs
- Listing ethical issues without balancing benefits.
- Confusing gene therapy with genetic modification of crops.
- Forgetting that genetic variation affects drug response.
Try three Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs exam-style questions
1. Give one benefit of producing drugs using genetically modified organisms. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
Any one: large quantities produced cheaply, human versions of proteins made, fewer rejection problems.
2. Explain how knowledge of the human genome can lead to personalised medicine. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
Genetic variations affect how individuals respond to drugs (1), so treatments can be matched to a patient's genotype (1).
3. Give one concern about GM crops. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
Any one: transfer of genes to wild plants, reduced biodiversity, unknown health effects, cost to farmers.
Topic 8: Genetic Modification and Drugs FAQs
What does this part of SNAB Topic 8 cover?
Genetic modification, the Human Genome Project, personalised medicine and ethical issues.
Do I need to know how GM organisms are made?
Know the role of restriction enzymes, ligase and vectors.
How should I answer ethics questions?
Give balanced arguments and refer to specific examples.
Revise this topic with flashcards: Edexcel A Level Biology A (SNAB) 9BN0 Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
