WJEC A Level Biology
WJEC A Level Biology 4.4 Variation and Evolution Exam Questions
Free WJEC A Level Biology exam questions on 4.4 Variation and Evolution, with mark schemes. Covers continuous and discontinuous variation, mutation, natural selection, genetic drift and speciation.
4.4 Variation and Evolution exam questions
1 question pack of real past exam questions with its mark scheme. Answer every question without notes, then mark your answers line by line against the mark scheme.
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WJEC A Level Biology 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.
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About WJEC A Level Biology 4.4 Variation and Evolution
This topic explains how variation leads to evolution and new species.
What you need to know
- Variation Continuous (polygenic, environmental) and discontinuous variation.
- Sources of variation Mutation, meiosis and random fertilisation.
- Evolution Natural selection, genetic drift and the founder effect change allele frequencies; Hardy-Weinberg calculations.
- Speciation Allopatric and sympatric speciation through reproductive isolation.
Common mistakes in 4.4 Variation and Evolution
- Saying mutations happen to help the organism.
- Confusing genetic drift with natural selection.
- Mixing up allopatric and sympatric speciation.
Try three 4.4 Variation and Evolution exam-style questions
1. Explain allopatric speciation. (3 marks)
Show the mark scheme answer
Populations are geographically separated (1); different selection pressures change allele frequencies (1); they become reproductively isolated and form new species (1).
2. Define genetic drift. (2 marks)
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Random changes in allele frequency (1), with greater effect in small populations (1).
3. Give one example of discontinuous variation. (1 mark)
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Any one: blood group, eye colour in some species, sex.
4.4 Variation and Evolution FAQs
What does Variation and Evolution cover?
Variation, mutation, natural selection, genetic drift and speciation.
Do I need Hardy-Weinberg?
Yes, to calculate allele and genotype frequencies.
What is the founder effect?
Loss of genetic variation when a small group starts a new population.
Revise this topic with flashcards: WJEC A Level Biology Flashcards, with mark scheme answers for Anki and Quizlet.
