Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield)
Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging Exam Questions
Free Edexcel A Level Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) exam questions on Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging, with mark schemes. Covers brain structure and function, brain imaging, habituation and learning, and critical periods in development.
Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging exam questions
These packs of real past exam questions cover the whole of Topic 8: Grey Matter, including Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging. 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: The Brain, Learning and Imaging
This part of Topic 8 explores how the brain works and develops.
What you need to know
- Brain regions Cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla and hypothalamus and their functions.
- Imaging CT, MRI, fMRI and PET scans and what each can show.
- Learning Habituation reduces response to repeated harmless stimuli.
- Development Critical periods in visual development, studied through animal experiments with ethical considerations.
Common mistakes in Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging
- Mixing up MRI and fMRI.
- Saying habituation is a reflex being learned.
- Ignoring ethics when discussing animal studies.
Try three Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging exam-style questions
1. State the function of the cerebellum. (1 mark)
Show the mark scheme answer
Coordinating movement and balance.
2. Explain why fMRI is useful for studying brain function. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
It detects changes in blood flow to active areas (1), showing which parts are used during a task (1).
3. Explain how habituation occurs at a synapse. (2 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
Repeated stimulation reduces calcium ion entry into the presynaptic neurone (1), so less neurotransmitter is released and the response weakens (1).
Topic 8: The Brain, Learning and Imaging FAQs
What does this part of SNAB Topic 8 cover?
Brain structure, imaging, habituation and critical periods in development.
Is there a core practical?
Yes, investigating habituation in snails.
Why are critical periods important?
Some abilities, such as vision, only develop normally if stimulated during a specific time window.
Revise this topic with flashcards: Edexcel A Level Biology A (SNAB) 9BN0 Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
