Organisation and Health
This section of the AQA Combined Science checklist 2024 delves into the organization of cells into tissues, organs, and organ systems, with a particular focus on the digestive, circulatory, and respiratory systems. It also covers important health issues and non-communicable diseases.
The digestive system is explored in detail, with emphasis on the role of enzymes in breaking down food molecules. Students are expected to understand how factors like temperature and pH affect enzyme activity, and be familiar with practical investigations involving enzymes.
Definition: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.
The circulatory system is another key topic, covering the structure and function of blood vessels, heart, and blood components. Students should be able to identify various parts of the heart and understand how its structure relates to its function in pumping blood throughout the body.
Vocabulary: The pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs, while the pulmonary vein returns oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart.
Respiratory system structure and function are also covered, with students expected to understand how the lungs are adapted for efficient gas exchange. The alveoli and surrounding capillary network are highlighted as crucial for this process.
Example: The large surface area and thin walls of alveoli allow for rapid diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide out of it.
Health issues, particularly coronary heart disease (CHD), are discussed in detail. Students should understand the causes of CHD and various treatment options, including stents, statins, and heart transplants.
The section concludes with an overview of non-communicable diseases and the impact of lifestyle factors on health. Students are expected to link factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking to various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and lung disease.
Highlight: The AQA GCSE Biology Paper 1 Checklist emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between benign and malignant tumors in the context of cancer.
