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YEAR 12
Biology
Diane Alford & Jennifer Hill

Free-to-download Sample Tests with answers

 Sample HSC Examination 1 QUESTIONS
Try to complete these papers as if they are the real thing. These are the instructions you need to follow in the HSC Exam:

General instructions Total marks: 100

• Reading time: 5 minutes Section I: 20 marks
• Working time: 3 hours Section II: 80 marks
• Write using black pen. • Attempt all questions.
• Draw diagrams using a pencil.
• For questions in Section II, show all relevant working in
questions involving calculations.
• NESA approved calculators may be used.

Section I: 20 marks 4 An infectious disease can be thought of as:

A an immune response�
Attempt Questions 1–20.
B a non-communicable disease�
Allow about 35 minutes for this section.
C a disruption to homeostatic mechanisms�
D a serious outbreak threat�
1 What is the ultimate source of natural genetic variation?
A crossing over B meiosis 5 DNA is found:
C recombinant DNA D mutation A in the cell membrane�
B bound to proteins in chromosomes in the nucleus of
2 During the 1854 cholera epidemic in London an
eukaryotes�
English doctor, John Snow, methodically investigated
C as unbound circular DNA in the cytosol of
the rate of cholera deaths in two neighbourhoods. The
eukaryotes�
first was a site where water was drawn from a pump
D in the mitochondria and chloroplasts of prokaryotic
downstream from an area Snow suspected was
cells�
contaminated with cholera. The second was a site where
a pump supplied water upstream and away from the The following table provides WHO UNICEF data on the
contaminated site. Five hundred deaths occurred in the prevalence of a number of infectious diseases in the
neighbourhood of the downstream pump in ten days. Southeast Asia region in the years 2012 to 2016.
No cases of cholera occurred in the neighbourhood The following graph shows polio cases worldwide in 1988
upstream of the pump. Once the pump handle at the and 2014.
downstream site was removed, the water supply from
Analyse the data in the table and the graph to answer
that pump stopped and the number of cholera cases
Questions 6 and 7.
went down. Snow proposed that cholera was not spread
by miasma but by contaminated water. Disease 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012

This case study is an example of: diptheria 4016 2504 7666 4080 3953
A an early epidemiological study� measles 27 530 48 888 42 899 24 564 31 582
B an early study of non-infectious disease�
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

C a study of stream ecosystems� mumps 31 739 42 937 38 327 36 352 47 086

D a study of microbiology� pertussis 43 141 29 813 54 953 37 602 45 847
3 Which of the following processes are all involved in the polio 0 2 0 0 0
continuity of life?
rubella 10 361 6515 9690 10 434 6877
A meiosis, DNA replication, binary fission, fertilisation
B homeostasis, osmoregulation, mitosis, implantation encephalitis 3500 3320 2831 1356 282
C ovulation, budding, spore production, respiration (Japanese)
D excretion, circulation, hormone production,
Source: www.who.int/immunization/monitoring_surveillance/data/gs_
implantation gloprofile.pdf

236 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

15 Which of the below is350the000
correct sequence in 11
A Use the following table, which shows the inheritance
bacteria
350 000
polypeptide synthesis? Polio cases
B of blood types in humans, to answer the question
prion
A transcription, tRNA moves from the nucleus to
worldwide C which
fungi follows.
300 000
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation D virus
Phenotype Genotype
B transcription, mRNA moves from nucleus to
250 000
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which
O of the following is a use of
OObiotechnology in

C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to

agriculture
A that could increase biodiversity?
AA, AO
200 000 A genetic drift
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription B BB, BO
B gene flow
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in AB AB
150 000 C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation
D Agenetic
fathererosion
has an O blood type and the mother has an
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in
100 000
Australia with the aim of preventing skin cancer. Since A blood type. What are the possible blood types of their
Section II: 80 marks
offspring?
then the incidence of the two most common forms of
50 000 A O,
Attempt A, B 21–32.
questions B A, B, AB
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of:
C A, O D AB,for
Allow about 2 hours and 25 minutes A this section.
A an increased understanding of the 413genetics of skin
cancer� 0 Instructions:
1988 2014 12 The following graph shows percentage rates of overweight
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a • In the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
Source: https://www.unicef.org.au/blog/news-and-insights/april-2016/ and obesity for Australian boys and girls measured in
spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease�
this-infographic-proves-how-effective-vaccines-are the 2011 to 2012 Australian Health Survey. Use the
expected length of response.
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a information
6 The prevalence of which disease shows a continually • Show all relevanttoworking
answerinthe questioninvolving
questions which follows.
disease caused by environmental exposure�
increasing trend from 2012 to 2016? calculations.
30
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations�
A encephalitis B rubella
25
C measles
17 Which diptheria
of the following are Dall mutagens? 21 Briefly outline how population genetics has helped in
7.4
gamma
7A What rays,most
is the oncoviruses, alkylatingfor
likely explanation agents
the prevalence understanding
20 human
8.7 evolution.
7.1 (37.7
marks)
4.1
B of radio
datawaves, visible
for polio light, microwaves
as compared to other diseases?
% of children

22 Construct
15 a simple model to summarise plant and
C Achlorophyll,
The disease progesterone, polypeptides
was never prevalent in the Southeast Asia animal responses to infection. 19.2 (4 marks)
D vitaminregion�A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase 17.6 17.6
10 16
B The disease was possibly prevalent until 2012 and 23 Different17.1pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most correct description of homeostasis?
then disappeared� transmission.
5 For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which
C The disease was prevalent but has been eliminated you classified in your study provide an example of the
change in the external or internal environment is 0
through pathogen and the5–7
infectious disease
years that it years
causes11–17
andyears
andmonitoring control� 2–4 years years 8–11 12–15
detected appropriate responses occur through
D The disease was prevalent but has been almost list each pathogen’s mode of
Overweight transmission.
Obese Construct a
neural pathways�
eliminated through immunisation� table to organise the answer. (4 marks)
B Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in Source: Australian Health Survey, 2011–12
8 which change
Which in the external
of the following or internal
is a modern environment
technique used in 24 UseWhich
the graph
of theand your own
following analysis to
statements explainathe
provides role
correct
is detected and appropriate responses occur through
biotechnology? of hormones in the progression
analysis of the data shown? of pregnancy and birth
Ahormones�
mutation breeding in mammals.
A About one in four Australian children were (8 marks)
C BHomeostasis involves
the use of yeast a stimulus-response
to make bread model in overweight or obese, with the highest percentage in
Cwhich change
the use in the external
of plasmids or internal environment
as vectors the 16–17 years age group�
Relative hormone concentration

Dis detected
the use ofand appropriate
a biological responses
control occurprickly
to reduce via pear B About one in four Australian children Oestrogens
were
negative feedback� overweight or obese, with the highestProgesterone
percentage in
9D What is the main
Homeostasis causea of
involves changes
nerve in allele
pathway modelfrequency
in in
the gene pool of a population? the 12–15 years age group�
which change in the external or internal environment C Rates of overweight are the same for all age groups�
natural selection
Ais detected and appropriate asexual reproduction
B responses occur via D Rates of obesity are highest for the 16–17 years age
gene expression
Cnegative feedback� D random segregation
group� Chorionic
TheWhich
19 10 imageofbelow
the following is which
represents an example ofpathogen?
type of a chemical
13
gonadotropin
Which of the following is an example of a technology
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

change that occurs in the cells and tissues of animals in

response to the presence of pathogens? used to assist people with a visual disorder?
Birth
0 4 laser
A 8 12 surgery
16 20 24 B26 cochlear
32 36 implant
40 commences
A Pathogens cause an increase in the diameter of blood
C haemodialysis D nephrosis
Weeks of pregnancy
vessels�
B Pathogens cause an increase in the permeability of Source:
14 By OpenStax
What is anCollege [CC BY 3.0
advantage of(http://creativecommons.org/
external fertilisation over
licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
blood vessels� internal fertilisation?
C Pathogens cause tissues at the site of an infection to A increased chance of fertilisation
become hot� B better suited to terrestrial environments
D Pathogens cause the production of cytokines to set up C facilitates widespread dispersal of zygotes
the inflammatory response� D fewer gametes produced

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION 1 237

 15 Which of the below is the correct sequence in A bacteria
polypeptide synthesis? B prion
A transcription, tRNA moves from the nucleus to C fungi
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation D virus
B transcription, mRNA moves from nucleus to
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
A genetic drift
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription
B gene flow
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in
C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation
D genetic erosion
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in
Australia with the aim of preventing skin cancer. Since
Section II: 80 marks
then the incidence of the two most common forms of
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of: Attempt questions 21–32.
A an increased understanding of the genetics of skin Allow about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
cancer� Instructions:
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a • In the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease�
expected length of response.
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
• Show all relevant working in questions involving
disease caused by environmental exposure�
calculations.
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations�

17 Which of the following are all mutagens? 21 Briefly outline how population genetics has helped in
A gamma rays, oncoviruses, alkylating agents understanding human evolution. (3 marks)
B radio waves, visible light, microwaves
22 Construct a simple model to summarise plant and
C chlorophyll, progesterone, polypeptides
animal responses to infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
23 Different pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most correct description of homeostasis?
transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which
you classified in your study provide an example of the
change in the external or internal environment is
pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected and appropriate responses occur through
list each pathogen’s mode of transmission. Construct a
neural pathways�
table to organise the answer. (4 marks)
B Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
which change in the external or internal environment 24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
is detected and appropriate responses occur through of hormones in the progression of pregnancy and birth
hormones� in mammals. (8 marks)
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
which change in the external or internal environment
Relative hormone concentration

is detected and appropriate responses occur via Oestrogens

negative feedback�
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in Progesterone
which change in the external or internal environment
is detected and appropriate responses occur via
negative feedback�
Chorionic
19 The image below represents which type of pathogen? gonadotropin
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

Birth
0 4 8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40 commences
Weeks of pregnancy
Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

 Which
15 25 Construct
of the abelow
diagram
is the
and
correct
explain
sequence
how theinstructure of 27
A The graph below provides information about the
bacteria
polypeptide
DNA supports synthesis?
the process of DNA replication yet at B homeostasis
prion of blood glucose levels after a high
A thetranscription,
same time has tRNA movesfor
allowed from the mutations
point nucleus to to C fungi
carbohydrate meal. The black line is glucose, the blue
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation
occur. (8 marks) D virus
line is insulin and the red line is glucagon. Study the
B transcription, mRNA moves from nucleus to graph and then answer the question that follows.
26 During your study you were asked to investigate the
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
170
C structure
translation,andmRNA
function of proteins
moves from theinnucleus
living organisms.
to agriculture
160
that could increase biodiversity?
Hi-carb meal
One A genetic drift
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription diseases caused
approach to this task is to analyse 150
Glucagon
B gene flow
140
D by faulty proteins.
transcription, mRNA Themoves
following
fromtable provides
ribosome in some 130 Glucose
data about diseases associated with faulty proteins. C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation 120
Insulin
Study the table and pedigree diagram below and then D genetic erosion
110
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in 100
answer the questions which follow. 90
Australia with the aim of preventing skin cancer. Since
Section
80 II: 80 marks
then the incidence of the twoCause/Defective
Symptoms most common proteinforms of 70
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of: Attempt
60 questions 21–32.
Cystic fibrosis
A an increased understanding of the genetics of skin
50 about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
Allow
40
cancer� Instructions:
30
fluids such as sweat, the protein cystic fibrosis
the effectiveness
Bdigestive of an educational
juices and mucus campaign
transmembrane for a
conductance • In
20 the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
aregenetic
very thick regulator (CFTR) is defective, most spaces
10 provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
disease�
expected
theresults
Coften effectiveness commonlycampaign
in lung of an educational as a result for
of a aloss of 0 1length 2of response.
3 4 5 6 7 8
infections, digestive the amino acid phenylalanine at • Show all relevant working in questions involving
disease caused by environmental exposure� Time (hours)
problems and a significantly the 508th position on the protein calculations.
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations�
reduced life expectancy the disease is inherited as Interpret the graph to explain what happens to glucose
autosomal
17 Which of the following are all recessive
mutagens? 21 levels,
Brieflyinsulin
outlinelevels
how and glucagon
population levels after
genetics the high
has helped in
gamma
AMotor rays,disease
neurone oncoviruses, alkylating agents carbohydrate meal.
understanding human evolution. (6 marks)
(3 marks)
B radio waves, visible light, microwaves
22 28 UNICEFa estimates
Construct that to
simple model about 3% of allplant
summarise babies in the
and
Cmuscle weakness,progesterone,
chlorophyll, initially in nerves activating muscles
polypeptides
hands or feet, followed by degenerate worldresponses
animal are born to with genetic disorders.
infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
loss of speech, difficulty Dr Justin Yerbury (a researcher and a What is a genetic disorder? Provide an example of
swallowing, muscle twitching, sufferer ofof 23 Different pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most correct description thehomeostasis?
disease) believes the cause and effects of a genetic disorder that you
cramps, fatigue, weight loss, that failure of proteins to be transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which have studied. (3 marks)
eventual paralysis and death recycled within neurones results in you classified in your study provide an example of the
change in the external or internal environment is b Provide one example of how genetic engineering
about 10% of sufferers have protein accumulation to toxic pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected
inherited the and appropriate
condition but responses
levels; theseoccur through
proteins spread to could prevent genetic diseases and briefly outline
list each pathogen’s mode of transmission. Construct a
neural
most casespathways�
arise without a adjacent neurones, progressing an ethical concern associated with this genetic
table to organise the answer. (4 marks)
Homeostasis
Bknown cause involves a stimulus-response
the disease model in technique. (3 marks)
which change in the external or internal environment 24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
29 The following points provide information about some
is detected and appropriate responses occur through of hormones in the progression of pregnancy and birth
hormones� F1 procedures that can be employed to prevent the spread
in mammals. (8 marks)
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in of the infectious disease malaria. Malaria is widespread
which change in the external or internal environmentF2 in the tropics and half of the world’s population is
Relative hormone concentration

is detected and appropriate responses occur via potentially exposed to the disease. In 2015 there were
Oestrogens
negative feedback� F3 approximately 212 million malaria cases and an
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in estimated 429 000 malaria deaths. Progesterone
F4
which change in the external or internal environment • Pesticides are used in swampy areas to reduce the
is detected and appropriate responses occur via breeding of mosquitoes.
Female feedback�
negative Male Person with cystic fibrosis • Surface minnows released in waterways eat the
mosquito larvae and reduce the mosquito Chorionic
population.
19 Thea image below
Use the representsfrom
information which
thetype
tableofand
pathogen?
your own gonadotropin
• People entering a malaria-infected area can take a
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

research to explain the relationship between the course of chloroquine that interferes with the
structure and function of proteins. Birth
(3 marks) 0 4 development
8 12 16 20 of the
24 parasite.
26 32 A 36virulent form of the
40 commences
b Describe the genetic change that would result in malaria protozoan
Weeks is resistant to chloroquine.
of pregnancy
the inheritance of cystic fibrosis if neither parent • Education programs encourage the use of insect
Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
in the first generation carried the allele for cystic repellents,
licenses/by/3.0)], protective
via Wikimedia Commons clothing and mosquito nets
fibrosis. (2 marks) over bedding.
c Use the pedigree diagram to construct a Punnett • A vaccine called PlasProtecT consists of inactivated
square diagram to show the gametes and offspring human malaria parasites which have been prevented
of the F3 generation cross between the two cousins from growing and causing a malaria infection.
that produced three F4 offspring. (4 marks) The vaccine is currently in early human trials.

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION 1 239

 • Artemisinin is a drug that has been used in Chinese 31 The diagram below comes from the Australian
medicine for 1500 years and is extracted from a Academy of Science website and shows a model of how
wormwood shrub called Artemisia annua. It is the human immune system responds to exposure to a
grown by 100 000 small farmers in Asia and Africa pathogen. Interpret the model to answer the questions
and also extracted from wild plants in China. In that follow.
combination with other drugs it is effective against White blood cells

multidrug resistant strains of the malaria protozoan. (Leucocyte)

• A strain of yeast has been genetically modified to Lymphocytes

produce a precursor to artemisinin in order to Innate cells

ensure reliability and reduce the price of the drug. Pathogens

A 50 000-litre chemical reactor could provide Produce inflammatory Cells of the

Activated
lymphocytes multiply
sufficient quantities of the drug for the world chemicals and digest
pathogens
innate immune
system activate
though it remains more expensive than the naturally Innate immunity
lymphocytes Memory cells Effector cells

grown and extracted artemisinin.

• CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and gene drive ADJUVANTS activate innate cells Long lived Short lived
technology could be combined to produce Specific immunity
White blood
(Leucocyt
mosquitoes unable to carry the protozoan that
would, when released, out-compete and eliminate Source: www.science.org.au/learning/general-audience/science-booklets/
science-immunisation/1-what-immunisation Innate cells
the wild-type mosquito within a few generations.
Pathogens
a Use the information above to explain how social, a In the diagram what does the image
economic and cultural contexts may influence represent? Produce inflammatory
(2 marks)Cells of the
chemicals and digest innate immune
biotechnology. (6 marks) b Briefly explain the difference between innate
pathogens system activate
lymphocytes
b Construct a table to evaluate each procedure immunity and specific immunity. Innate immunity
(2 marks)
described. (8 marks c Name two types of lymphocytes and their function.
(2 marks)
ADJUVANTS activate innate cells
30 The following predictions are about future developments
d Explain the part of the diagram that states:
in biotechnology. Read these and then answer the
ADJUVANTS activate innate cells. (2 marks)
question that follows.
Personalised medicine becomes normal. Doctors use 32 In your course work you investigated practical
understanding of a person’s genetic profile to predict applications of STEM (science, technology, engineering
which medicine will work best for them. and maths). Describe one practical application of STEM
that is used in the treatment of a named non-infectious
Gene therapy will be used to correct the impact of
disease or disorder and briefly outline some advances in
defective genes, reducing the problems of inherited
the technology that have improved the effectiveness of
disease.
the treatment. (4 marks)
Compare these statements with your own research into the
future directions of biotechnology and the potential
benefits for society of research using gene technologies.
(6 marks)
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

240 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

15
Sample HSC Examination 2
Which of the below is the correct sequence in
polypeptide synthesis?
A transcription, tRNA moves from the nucleus to
QUESTIONS A bacteria
B prion
C fungi
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation D virus
B transcription, mRNA moves from nucleus to
20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
Tryribosome
to complete these papers as if they are the real thing. These are the genetic driftyou need to follow in the HSC Exam:
A instructions
in cytoplasm, transcription
B gene flow
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in
C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation Total
General instructions D marks:
genetic 100
erosion
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in Section I: 20 marks
• Reading time: 5 minutes
Australia with the aim of preventing skin cancer. Since Section
• Working time: 3 hours SectionII:II:8080marks
marks
•then the
Write incidence
using of the two most common forms of
black pen. • Attempt all questions.
Attempt questions 21–32.
•skin
Drawcancer has declined.
diagrams This provides an example of:
using a pencil.
A an increased understanding of the genetics of skin Allow about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
• For questions in Section II, show all relevant working in
cancer� involving calculations.
questions Instructions:
the approved
•B NESA effectiveness of an educational
calculators may be used.campaign for a • In the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease�
expected length of response.
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
• Show all relevant working in questions involving
disease caused by environmental exposure� Which of the following is an adaptation of a pathogen
5calculations.
Section I: 20 marks
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations� that facilitates its entry into a host?
Attempt Questions 1–20.
17 Allow about
Which of the35 minutes are
following for this section.
all mutagens? 21 A The
Briefly outerhow
outline surface of many genetics
population microorganisms is in
has helped
A gamma rays, oncoviruses, alkylating agents composed of molecules
understanding human evolution. that do not occur in their host�
(3 marks)
1B What
radio is the term
waves, used
visible when
light, pathogens spread directly
microwaves B A pathogen causes an inflammation response�
22 Construct
C Someabacteria
simple coat
model to summarise
themselves plantpolysaccharide
with a thick and
C from host to progesterone,
chlorophyll, host? polypeptides
animalcapsule
responses to infection.
that is not recognised by phagocytes� (4 marks)
D Avitamin
vehicleA,transmission
ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
B vector-borne transmission D Some macrophages have granules that contain
23 Different pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most correct description of homeostasis? anti-microbial enzymes�
C direct transmission transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which
D fomite transmission 6youWhat
classified
is thein yourofstudy
effect provide
genetic drift an
on example
the gene of theof a
pool
change in the external or internal environment is
pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
population?
2 Which
detected of and
the below is an example
appropriate responsesofoccur
the application
through of
listAeach pathogen’s mode adaptation
Alleles that support of transmission.
to the Construct
environment a
scientific knowledge to assist the reproduction of plants?
neural pathways�
table to organise the answer.
become more frequent� (4 marks)
B AHomeostasis
cloning byinvolves
embryo asplitting
stimulus-response model in
Bwhich change in
sex reversal inthe externalhermaphrodites
sequential or internal environment B Alleles that cause disease are likely to be eliminated�
24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
Cis detected and appropriate
propagation responses occur through
by tissue culture C Allele frequency changes because of random events�
of hormones in the progression of pregnancy and birth
Dhormones�
artificial insemination D Allele frequency increases because of immigrants�
in mammals. (8 marks)
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in 7 Binge drinking among teenagers and young adults is a
3 Which of the following chemical changes occurs in the
which change in the external or internal environment community-wide problem. Binge drinking can increase
Relative hormone concentration

cells and tissues

is detected of plants inresponses
and appropriate response to the via
occur presence of
pathogens? the risk of chronic diseases later in life.Oestrogens
You are asked to
negative feedback� develop strategies for the prevention ofProgesterone
binge drinking.
A reinforcement of the cell wall
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in What strategy could be most effective?
B production of resistance peptides
which change in the external or internal environment A raising funds to help fight diseases related to alcohol
C cytoplasmic streaming
is detected and appropriate responses occur via use at a young age
D stomatal closure
negative feedback� B education about supporting familiesChorionic
with chronic
4 What is a key factor in the difference between binary diseases related to alcohol use at a young age
gonadotropin
19 The image below represents which type of pathogen?
fission in bacteria with that in protists?
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

C a social marketing education campaign primarily

A Bacteria are unicellular and protists are multicellular� targeting parents of teenagers Birth
B Bacteria reproduce sexually whereas protists 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40
D a social marketing education campaign commences
primarily
reproduce asexually� Weeks of pregnancy
targeting teenagers and young adults
C Protists are much smaller than bacteria� Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
D Bacteria are prokaryotic and protists are eukaryotic� 8 What isvia
licenses/by/3.0)], a Wikimedia
likely potential
Commonsbenefit for society of research
into genetic technologies?
A increased life expectancy and better health
B reduced use of animals in biological testing
C reduced numbers of deleterious mutations occurring
D an expansion in worldwide biodiversity

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION 2 241

 9 Which of the following is an example of a chromosomal 12 What is the name of a non-infectious disease in which
mutation? the body becomes resistant to the normal effects of
A frameshift mutation insulin or gradually loses the ability to produce enough
B aneuploidy insulin?
C nucleotide substitution A gestational diabetes
D nonsense mutation B type 2 diabetes
C chronic disease
The figure below represents the formation of insulin, which
D pre-diabetes
controls blood glucose levels. This figure may assist with
your answers to Questions 10, 11 and 12. 13 One way to assess the effectiveness of cloning is to:
1 Preproinsulin A count the number of offspring�
B screen for antibiotic resistance�
C-peptide
C compare the number of attempts made with the
number of genetically identical products�
A chain
HS D determine the number of endangered species that
SH
HS SH
HS have been saved�

COO - +
NH3
14 What are the processes that cause variation during cell
B chain
replication?
SH Signal peptide A DNA replication and mutation
B crossing over and random segregation
2 Membrane transport C cytokinesis and chromatid replication
3 Cleavege of signal peptide D oncoviruses and electromagnetic radiation
4 Disulfide bonds form
15 The following graph provides epidemiological data of
dementia in the Australian population. Dementia
S S
describes a syndrome characterised by the gradual
COO -
S S
impairment of brain function.
+ S S What is the graph an example of?
H3N
% Males
5 C-peptide is cleaved 40 Females
6 Formation of the mature insulin molecule
A chain
S S 30
+
H3N COO -
S S
S COO -
+ S 20
H3N
B chain

10 What is the process that immediately precedes Step 1 in 10

the figure above?
A polypeptide synthesis
B DNA replication 0
C crossing over 0–64 65–74 75–84 85+
D chromosome translocation Age group
Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2016
11 Some people describe the hormone insulin as a ‘key’
A prevalence data
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

that unlocks the cell to let glucose enter through the cell
B mortality data
membrane. What is the best conclusion about the role
C incidence data
of insulin?
D population aging data
A Insulin is an enzyme that catalyses chemical
reactions�
B Insulin is a protein whose structure is important for
its function�
C Insulin is part of the cell membrane that attracts
glucose�
D Insulin reacts with glucose to release cellular energy�

242 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

 Which
15 16 Whatofdothethe
below
termsis antigen
the correct antibody in
andsequence mean? A What disease or condition group was responsible for a
bacteria
polypeptide
A Antigen synthesis?
refers to the invading microbe and the B total
prionexpenditure of around $13.8 million in the three
A transcription,
antibody is tRNA
the pathogen�
moves from the nucleus to C time
fungiperiods?
Bribosome
Antigeninrefers
cytoplasm,
to the invading
translationpathogen and the D Avirus
cancer
B transcription,
antibody is mRNA
the protein
moves
thatfrom
neutralises
nucleusthe
to pathogen� B cardiovascular disease
20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
Cribosome
Antigeniniscytoplasm,
the white blood
translation
cells that make antibodies C muscular skeletal disorders
C translation,
that neutralise
mRNA the
moves
pathogen�
from the nucleus to agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
D respiratory disease
A genetic drift
Dribosome
Antigens in are
cytoplasm,
toxins and
transcription
antibodies help the toxins
20 gene flow
B Which of the following diseases could be most easily
D transcription,
to work� mRNA moves from ribosome in
gene cloning
C prevented and kept out of Australia by quarantine?
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation
17 What does the figure below represent? D Agenetic erosion
sickle-cell anaemia
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in
B smallpox
Australia with the aim of preventing skin cancer. Since
SectionC lung
II: 80 cancer
marks
then the incidence of the two most common forms of
D foot-and-mouth disease
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of: Attempt questions 21–32.
A an increased understanding of the genetics of skin Allow about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
cancer� Section II: 80 marks
Instructions:
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a • InAttempt
the HSCquestions
Exam you21–34.
will answer the questions in the
spaces
Allow about 2 hours andspaces
provided. These provide
25 minutes guidance
for this for the
section.
genetic disease�
expected length
Instructions: of response.
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
• Show all relevant
• In the HSC Exam working inanswer
you will questions
theinvolving
questions in the
disease caused by environmental exposure�
calculations.
spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations�
the expected length of response.
17 Which of the following are all mutagens? 21 Briefly
• Showoutline how working
all relevant population genetics has
in questions helped in
involving
A gamma rays, oncoviruses, alkylating agents understanding
calculations. human evolution. (3 marks)
B radio waves, visible light, microwaves
22 Construct a simple model to summarise plant and
C chlorophyll,
Source: image by NHSprogesterone,
National Geneticspolypeptides
and Genomics Education Centre 21 Oils stored in the oil glands of leaves, such as eucalyptus
(Flickr) [CC BY 2.0 animal responses to infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A,(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)],
ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase via oil, are examples of a preformed chemical defence of
Wikimedia Commons
23 eucalyptus
Different plants.have
pathogens Eucalyptus
differentoilmodes
is also of
a traditional
18 What A is chromosomal mutation
the most correct and a translocation
description of homeostasis?
bush medicine
transmission. For used by Aboriginal
four different typespeople and is now
of pathogens that
B nucleotide base deletion
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus and amodel
nonsense mutation
in which
nucleotide
Cchange base insertion and a frameshift mutation youused in a wide
classified range
in your of cleaning
study provideproducts
an example andof the
in the external or internal environment is
pharmaceuticals
pathogen such as throat
and the infectious lozenges.
disease that it causes and
nucleotide
Ddetected base substitution and a single
and appropriate responses occur through nucleotide
Explain
listaeach the relationship
pathogen’s between eucalyptus
mode of transmission. Constructoilaas
polymorphism
neural pathways�
table toa preformed
organise thedefence
answer.in eucalypts and its use(4 bymarks)
B Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
18 Which process is essential for the continuity of a species? Aboriginal people as a bush medicine. (2 marks)
which change in the external or internal environment Useb theBriefly
graphoutline
and your
A cell replication
24
theown analysis to application
contemporary explain the role
is detected and appropriate responses occur through of hormones in the progression
B fertilisation of Aboriginal protocols inofthepregnancy
development and birth
of
hormones� in mammals. (8 marks)
C implantation medicines in Australia. (2 marks)
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
D binary fission
which change in the external or internal environment 22 Analyse the features of fertilisation and implantation
Relative hormone concentration

19 In is your study
detected andyou investigated
appropriate the economic
responses occur via costs and in terms of how they contribute to continuity
Oestrogens
costs to productivity
negative feedback� of diseases in populations. The of species. (4 marks)
D following
Homeostasis datainvolves
shows Australian expenditure
a nerve pathway modelon in patients Progesterone
admitted to hospital in 2004–05, 2008–09 and
which change in the external or internal environment 2012–13. In 2008 about two million new worldwide cases of cancer
23
Study the data and answer the question
is detected and appropriate responses occur viawhich follows. were attributed to infectious agents such as certain viruses,
negative feedback�2004–05
$ million bacteria and parasites. This equates to approximately
6000 2008–09 2012–13
16% of all cancers worldwide. The proportion Chorionicis higher
19 The image below represents which type of pathogen?
5000 gonadotropin
in developing countries, where 23% of all cancers were
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

4000
3000
attributed to infections, and lower in developed countries,
Birth
2000 0 where
4 8 7.4% 12 of16cancers
20 24were26attributed
32 36 to 40 infectious
commencesspread.
1000 Study theWeeks tableofon the following page which details
pregnancy
0 the number of new cancer types in 2008 that were
Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
diseases
Injuries
Reproductive and
maternal conditions
Gastrointestinal
diseases
Chronic musculoskeletal
disorders
Mental and
substance-use disorders

other neoplasms
Kidney and urinary
diseases

metabolic disorders
Infections

Endocrine disorders
Infant and congenital
conditions
Respiratory diseases

Neurological conditions

Skin disorders

Sense organ disorders

Oral disorders

attributable to infectious
Commonsagents and then answer the
Cardiovascular

Cancer and

Blood and

licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia

questions that follow.

Disease or condition group

Source: AIHW disease expenditure database

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION 2 243

 b Computer models of human thermoregulation
Cancer type Number Number of new Number
of new cancer cases attributed to responses have been developed for use in the design
cancer attributed to infection in of clothing such as military suits. Simulating and
cases infection in more developed modelling the thermoregulatory system also enables
less developed regions scientists to study the effects of extreme environments
regions
on the human body. From your understanding of
stomach 870 000 470 000 180 000 trends and patterns in structural and physiological
adaptations in endotherms that assist in
liver 750 000 510 000 69 000
thermoregulation describe some adaptations that
cervix/uterus 530 000 450 000 77 000 would be considered in the design, simulations
and modelling? (4 marks)
vagina 27 000 4100 7500
26 Construct diagrams to compare the structure and role
a What term is used to refer to numbers of new cases
of DNA with protein structure and function. (8 marks)
of a disease? (1 mark)
b Suggest why the proportion of new cases was higher 27 The World Health Organization has prepared a list of
in less developed regions. Justify your answer using diseases that pose a serious threat of a global outbreak.
information from the data. (2 marks) The list includes the following diseases: Ebola (a fruit
c From your understanding of infectious and bat virus), Zika (a monkey virus), SARS (a bat virus),
non-infectious diseases describe two strategies used Lassa fever (carried by rats) and Nipah (a bat virus).
to prevent cancers attributable to infection. (2 marks) a What is the term for an outbreak of disease? (1 mark)
b Briefly explain how these diseases have become a
24 Study the figure below and answers the questions which
follow. global threat. (2 marks)
c Describe the key factors in the transmission of
a disease during an outbreak. (2 marks)
d Outline three current strategies that are used to
predict and control outbreaks of disease. (3 marks)

1 2 3 4 28 The figure
5 below demonstrates
6 how gene drives (Cas9)
and any linked alleles (Cargo) can ‘take over’ genetic
control by cutting and repairing to insert the linked
allele. Blue represents the mosquito with the wild allele
and red represents the mosquito with the altered allele;
that is, the gene drive and altered allele in the right-hand
4 5 6 diagram. Study the figure and then answer the question
Source: images by LadyofHats (own work, public domain), via Wikimedia that follows.
Commons A
gRN
a Name the type of cell replication occurring in the CAS9 Cargo
Allele 1
CAS9 Cargo
Allele 1
Repair
figure above and describe a key process that you Cut site
CAS9 Cargo CAS9 Cargo
modelled in your studies for each of the numbered Allele 2 Allele 2

steps. (3 marks)
Normal inheritance Gene drive inheritance

b Name the other main type of cell division that you

modelled and contrast the above processes and
products with its processes and products. (2 marks)

25 Maintenance of homeostasis requires more than a simple Altered gene does not spread Altered gene is always inherited
reflex. The model below shows the more complex
Source: image by Mariuswalter (own work), [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://
feedback mechanism required to maintain homeostasis.
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

stimulus → receptor → afferent pathway → control centre →
efferent pathway → effector → response → negative feedback Compare the mechanism of gene drives with the
normal inheritance pattern demonstrated in the
a Use the model to describe the negative feedback
figure. (6 marks)
loop that maintains homeostasis for either
temperature or glucose. (4 marks)

244 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

 Which
15 29 In your
of the
study
below
youisconducted
the correcta sequence
practical investigation
in 33
AIn the early 1900s in Colorado a dentist named
bacteria
polypeptide
relating tosynthesis?
microbial testing of water or food samples. BFrederick
prion McKay started to investigate brown stains that
A Below is a summary
transcription, tRNA of one technique
moves used toto
from the nucleus Cwere
fungiprolific on the teeth of locals. His investigation
investigate
ribosome in microbes in food
cytoplasm, samples. Read the
translation Drevealed
virus that the individuals affected were resistant to
B procedure andmRNA
transcription, then answer
movesparts and b. to
fromanucleus tooth decay. He eventually traced the cause to high
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which
levelsofofthe following
fluoride thatisoccurred
a use of biotechnology in
in the water supply.
Spread plate procedure agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
In the spread plate procedure sterile, melted nutrient Thirty years later the first pilot study into fluoridation
A genetic drift
ribosome
agar in cytoplasm,
is poured transcription
into a number of Petri dishes and was conducted in Grand Rapids. Fluoridation involves
B gene flow
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in
allowed to cool. Small amounts of different food adding fluoride to drinking water. Children born after
C gene cloning
cytoplasm
samples aretoplaced
the nucleus,
on the translation
nutrient agar. The lid is the fluoridation commenced showed a 60% decrease in
D genetic erosion
16 Thesecured
‘Slip, Slop,
ontoSlap’
eachcampaign
Petri dishstarted
and theindishes
the 1980s in
incubated the number of dental cavities and an improvement in
Australia with temperature
at a certain the aim of preventing skinperiod
for a specific cancer.ofSince
time. oral health.
Section II: 80 marks
then the incidence
Microbes of the on
may appear twothe
most common
surface of theforms
agar. of In your studies you analysed the role of epidemiology
skin cancer has declined.
Microbiologists This
can pick offprovides
samples an example
of the of:
microbes Attempt questions 21–32.
in understanding the incidence and prevalence of
an increased
A with understanding
a sterile inoculating of the
needle orgenetics
loop and ofuse
skinthese Allownutritional
about 2 hours and 25
diseases andminutes for this section.
those caused by environmental
cancer� to inoculate fresh nutrient agar plates.
samples Instructions:
exposure. Compare the results of one of your analyses
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a • In the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
with the case study described above. (5 marks)
a Outline experimental procedures that you would spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease�
use to ensure that the investigation is valid. (2 marks) expected
34 Evaluate length of response.of a current technology that is
the effectiveness
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
b Outline the safety precautions that you would follow • Show all to
used relevant working
assist with in questions
the effects of oneinvolving
of the following
disease caused by environmental exposure�
when carrying out this procedure. calculations.
D the effectiveness of targeting specific populations�
(2 marks) disorders: hearing loss, visual disorders or loss of
kidney function. Describe future directions for further
30 Compare
of thethe processes,
are technologies
all mutagens?and outcomes Briefly outline
17 Which following 21 research andhow populationdevelopment
technological genetics has in
helped in to
relation
of DNA sequencing with DNA profiling.
A gamma rays, oncoviruses, alkylating agents
(6 marks) understanding human evolution.
the chosen disorder. (3 marks)
(6 marks)
B radio waves, visible light, microwaves
31 A researcher is trying to develop new varieties of 22 Construct a simple model to summarise plant and
C chlorophyll, progesterone, polypeptides
flowers by mutation breeding. Evaluate an example of animal responses to infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
each of the three different types of mutagens that might
be considered 23 Different pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most to promote
correct the mutant
description varieties. (6 marks)
of homeostasis?
transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which
32 Supporters of the use of growth hormones in the you classified in your study provide an example of the
change in the external or internal environment is
livestock industry list the benefits of increased pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected and appropriate responses occur through
productivity, reduced production costs and improved list each pathogen’s mode of transmission. Construct a
neural pathways�
food affordability. Recombinant bovine growth hormone table to organise the answer. (4 marks)
B Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
(rBGH) is a synthetically produced hormone that has
which change in the external or internal environment 24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
been shown to increase milk yield between 10–15%.
is detected and appropriate responses occur through of hormones in the progression of pregnancy and birth
Australia, New Zealand and the European Union have
hormones� in mammals. (8 marks)
banned the use of rBGH based on evidence that it
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
increases the risk of health issues in cows and because
which change in the external or internal environment
of concerns regarding milk contamination. Countries
Relative hormone concentration

is detected and appropriate responses occur via Oestrogens

such as the United States allow it.
negative feedback�
D Use this information
Homeostasis involvesand yourpathway
a nerve own investigations
model in to Progesterone
answer the questions below.
which change in the external or internal environment
Outline and
ais detected the impact of social
appropriate and economic
responses occur viacontexts
on biotechnology.
negative feedback� (3 marks)
b Discuss the ethical uses of biotechnology. (2 marks)
Chorionic
19 The image below represents which type of pathogen? gonadotropin
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

Birth
0 4 8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40 commences
Weeks of pregnancy
Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION 2 245

 AnSWERS
Sample HSC ExAMINATION 1 10 D� Production of cytokines is a chemical change� The inflammatory
response occurs quickly in animals in response to the presence of
Section I pathogens and produces both physical and chemical changes in the
cells and tissues� A, B and C are examples of physical changes that
1 D� Mutation results in the production of new alleles (the source of
occur in the cells and tissues of animals in response to the presence
natural genetic variation)� A and B are wrong because crossing over
of pathogens�
and meiosis produce new combinations of alleles but not new
alleles� C is incorrect because recombinant DNA technology results 11 C� Because O is recessive the father must have genotype OO�
from human intervention� The mother could be AO or AA� The possible offspring would be
OO or OA� A, B and D are wrong because neither parent carries
2 A� Snow’s methods of gathering data, looking at relationships and
the B allele so B or AB blood types are not possible�
hypothesising about causes of disease are part of epidemiological
studies� B is wrong because cholera is an infectious disease� C is 12 B� The percentage for all age groups is about 25% (around one in
incorrect because it is not an ecosystem study� D is wrong because four)� The highest percentage is in the 12–15 years age group� A is
historically the definite links between microbes and bacterial partly correct but the highest percentage group is wrong� C is wrong
infection had not been made in 1854� because the rates are not exactly the same for all age groups� D is
incorrect because the highest percentage is not in the 16–17 years
3 A� All the processes in this option are involved in either sexual or
age group�
asexual reproduction� B is wrong because homeostasis and
osmoregulation are involved in metabolism, not reproduction� C is 13 A� Laser surgery is one type of technology used to correct visual
incorrect as respiration is essential for the release of energy in cells, disorders� B is wrong because cochlear implants are a technology
not reproduction specifically� D is wrong because excretion and used to assist with the effects of hearing loss� C is incorrect because
circulation are not directly involved in reproduction� haemodialysis is a technology used to assist with loss of kidney
function� D is wrong because nephrosis is a disorder of the kidneys�
4 C� Infectious diseases cause a disruption to the body’s homeostasis�
A is wrong because the body responds to infectious disease through 14 C� This option is correct as external fertilisation usually occurs in
an immune response� B is wrong because non-communicable water and water currents can disperse gametes and zygotes� A is
diseases are non-infectious diseases� D is incorrect because not all incorrect because there is greater loss of gametes so less chance of
infectious diseases lead to serious outbreaks� fertilisation� B is wrong because it is better suited to aquatic
environments� D is wrong as generally far more gametes are
5 B� This option describes how DNA occurs in chromosomes� A is
produced and released�
wrong because the cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer
embedded with proteins and cholesterol� C is incorrect because 15 B� This option correctly identifies that transcription occurs before
DNA is unbound in circular plasmids in prokaryotic cells, not translation and that transcription results in mRNA that travels from
eukaryotic cells� D is wrong because DNA occurs in mitochondria the nucleus to the ribosome� A is wrong because transcription does
and chloroplasts in eukaryotic cells, not prokaryotic cells� not produce tRNA� C is wrong because transcription occurs first�
D is incorrect because mRNA moves from the nucleus not to the
6 A� Encephalitis increases continually from 2012 to 2016� B, C and
nucleus�
D are incorrect because the data shows that that the pattern of
prevalence of these diseases fluctuates between 2012 and 2016� 16 C� ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ is an educational campaign that has been
effective in reducing environmental exposure to the sun and
7 D� Polio has been almost eliminated through global immunisation
therefore preventing skin cancer� A is wrong because, even though
programs as shown on the graph� B is not as accurate an answer as
increased understanding of genetics is important, ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’
D (refer to the graph)� The disease was prevalent in Southeast Asia
does not provide an example of this� B is incorrect because the
so A is wrong� C is incorrect because monitoring is not going to
campaign is aimed at preventing a disease caused by environmental
almost eliminate diseases such as polio�
exposure� D is wrong because the campaign targeted the entire
8 C� Modern biotechnology can involve the use of bacterial enzymes, Australian population�
plasmids as vectors and techniques including gel electrophoresis,
17 A� This option correctly identifies physical, natural and chemical
bacterial transformations and the Polymerase Chain Reaction
mutagens� B is wrong as it lists forms of electromagnetic radiation
(PCR)� A, B and D are wrong because these current techniques and
that are not mutagens� C and D are incorrect because they list
applications of biotechnology have been used for either decades or
biochemicals that are not mutagens�
centuries�
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

18 C� Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in which

9 A� When selection pressures in the environment confer a selective
change in the external or internal environment is detected and
advantage on a specific phenotype to enhance its survival and
appropriate responses occur via negative feedback� A is wrong
reproduction the frequency of an allele in a gene pool can change�
because homeostasis is stimulus and response, and involves more
This has been occurring throughout the course of evolution� B is
than neural pathways� B is wrong because homeostasis involves
wrong because asexual reproduction produces offspring genetically
more than hormones� D is wrong because homeostasis involves
identical to parents� C is wrong because gene expression involves
more than a nerve pathway model�
processes that convert the genotype into a phenotype of an organism
and does not change alleles� D is incorrect because random 19 D� The diagram is of a virus so options A, B and C are incorrect�
segregation of homologous chromosomes does not confer advantage
or disadvantage on any particular alleles or chromosomes�

246 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

 Which
15 20 of flow
B� Gene the below is the in
is the increase correct sequence
biodiversity in
of a population because A bacteria
24 To answer this question you should first analyse the graph and
polypeptide
of immigrants�synthesis?
This is not necessarily a good thing if it is, for example, prion
B the trends shown and outline the role of the three hormones in
A atranscription,
result of invasiontRNA movesecosystem
of a natural from thebynucleus
a crop� Ato is incorrect fungi
C maintaining pregnancy. The drop in the level of progesterone is a
because genetic drift relates totranslation
changes in allele frequency in a clue to the explanation of the role of falling progesterone in
ribosome in cytoplasm, D virus
triggering birth. The high mark value of this question indicates you
B population due tomRNA
transcription, events� C
random moves is wrong
from because
nucleus to gene cloning need to explain thoroughly.
creates copies of genes that are identical� D is wrong because
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
genetic erosion is the decline of genetic diversity� Progesterone is called the pregnancy hormone� It helps to facilitate
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
the implantation of the embryo by maintaining the uterus lining�
A genetic drift
Section II
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription Other roles include the suppression of muscle contractions of the
gene flow
B uterus� () Falling levels of progesterone are part of the process
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in
21 The question asksnucleus,
for a brieftranslation
outline so you could consider using gene
C that cloning
initiates birth� ()
cytoplasm to the
dot points to link population genetics to a better understanding of D Agenetic
numbererosion
of different forms of oestrogen are produced during
16 Thehuman
‘Slip,evolution.
Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in pregnancy and they complement the role of progesterone� They
Australia with
Population the aim
genetics of preventing
investigates skin
factors that cancer.theSince
influence change of prepare the body for birth by strengthening the smooth muscle of
Section II: 80 marks
then the incidence
frequency of alleles of
overthe two
time andmost common
across locations forms of
and populations� the uterus and initiating the development of mammary glands
Factors
skin in human
cancer evolutionThis
has declined. include mutation,
provides annatural
exampleselection,
of: Attempt
readyquestions 21–32. ()
for milk production�
genetic drift, gene flow and, particularly, migration� () AllowOestrogens
about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
A an increased understanding of the genetics of skin support progesterone in inhibiting the pituitary gland
Studies
cancer�of DNA of ancestral groups such as Denisovans and Instructions:
from its role in initiating ovulation and also by suppressing
Neanderthals have often relied on analysis and comparison of • In the
immune
HSC rejection�
Exam you ()will answer the questions in the
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
mitochondrial DNA which tends to be relatively well preserved and spaces provided.
Chorionic These spaces
gonadotrophin is producedprovide
in high guidance
levels early infor the
pregnancy
genetic
can be useddisease�
as a biological clock because it is inherited through the expected length
and its levels oflater
fall in response.
stages� It helps to maintain the corpus luteum
the effectiveness
C maternal line� Fossils of
andan educationalremains
archaeological campaignin thefor a
Hohlenstein-
• Showandall
hence levels of
relevant progesterone
working and oestrogens
in questions in the early stages
involving
disease
Stadel cavecaused by environmental
in Germany exposure�
could not be carbon dated but mitochondrial of pregnancy� () Chorionic gonadotrophin induces the production
calculations.
D DNA put the fossilised
the effectiveness of bone to be about
targeting 124populations�
specific 000 years old� () of the hormone relaxin that helps with expansion of maternal joints
Sudden reductions in population due to catastrophes such as the to allow room for the growing foetus� ()
17 Which
Toba of the following
super-volcano are all 70
in Indonesia mutagens?
000 years ago are believed to 21 Briefly outline how population genetics has helped in
In addition to some of the oestrogens oxytocin is the hormone that
gamma
A have rays,
reduced oncoviruses,
human alkylating agents
diversity� () understanding human evolution. (3 marks)
orchestrates the contractions that result in birth� () Relaxin helps
B radio waves, visible light, microwaves with the expansion of the pelvis during birth but also facilitates the
22 To answer this question you need to know that all plants and 22 Construct a simple model to summarise plant and
C chlorophyll, progesterone, polypeptides dilation of the cervix� ()
animals have an innate immune response to infections and animal responses to infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
vertebrates also have an adaptive immune response. Your model
25 You need to identify the key components and structure of DNA,
could be a flow diagram. Marks are given for the construction of the 23 Different pathogens have different modes of
18 What is the most correct description of homeostasis? explain how replication occurs in relation to the structure and
model () () and for correct information comparing plant and transmission. For four
construct a diagram that different
summarisestypes ofsteps.
the key pathogens thatone
You receive
Homeostasis
A animal involves a()
immune responses. stimulus model
() A sample in which
model is given below.
youmark
classified
for eachin your
of the twostudy provide
elements of the an example
diagram. After of
youthe
change in the external or internal environment is construct the diagram describe the changes that occur in point
pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected and appropriate responses occur through
Plant and animal mutations in relation to the structure.
list each pathogen’s mode of transmission. Construct a
neural pathways�
responses to infection DNA is a polymer made up of nucleotide monomers� Each nucleotide
table to organise
contains the answer.
a deoxyribose (4 marks)
sugar joined to a phosphate and also joined
B Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
which change in the external or internal environment 24 Usetothe
one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine and guanine are purine
graph and your own analysis to explain the role
bases and thymine and cytosine are pyrimidine bases� () The
is detected and appropriate responses
Adaptive immune
occur through
Innate immune of hormones in the progression
entire macromolecule ofchains
consists of two pregnancy
of theseand birth
nucleotides
hormones�
responses responses in mammals.
running in opposite directions and which are held together(8 marks)
by
C Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in hydrogen bonds between the nitrogen bases� () Adenine attracts
which change in the external or internal environment thymine and cytosine attracts guanine� The hydrogen bonds are not
Relative hormone concentration

is detected and appropriate responses occur via nearly as strong as the covalent bonds that holdOestrogens
each strand�
Only
negative feedback�
vertebrates All plants All animals During DNA replication the sugar-phosphate backbones holding
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in the nucleotides are peeled open when enzymesProgesterone
break the weak
hydrogen bonds between the bases� () The two single strands then
which change in the external or internal environment
become templates and, with the help of enzymes, the slotting in of
23 is detected and recall
This is a simple appropriate
questionresponses
that asks youoccur via your
to organise matching nucleotides occurs so that two replicas of the original
negativeinfeedback�
responses a table. One mark () is given for each correct answer DNA are formed� () Each molecule will reform into the double
for the four different types of pathogens. Note that this is a sample Chorionic
helix shown in the diagram that accompanies the question�
19 Theanswer
image below
and represents
you may which
have chosen othertype of pathogen?
pathogens such as prions or gonadotropin
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

fungi. Make sure you answer all parts of the question.

Type of pathogen Example of disease it causes Mode Birth

0 of 4transmission
8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40 commences
bacteria Vibrio cholerae causes cholera Weeks
indirect transmission of pregnancy
through contaminated water
Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
virus flavivirus causes yellow fever vector transmission by mosquitoes
licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
protozoan Plasmodium falciparum causes malaria vector transmission by mosquitoes

macroparasite tapeworms cause infection of the indirect transmission through undercooked food or
digestive tract water contaminated with tapeworm eggs and larvae

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION ANSWERS 247

 DNA unzips (before Two DNA molecules Very soon after a high carbohydrate meal glucose levels in the
meiosis or mitosis) forming blood and insulin levels are higher� () This rise is because the rise
A T A T A T in glucose is detected by beta cells in the pancreas� These cells
T A T A T A produce more insulin� () When the glucose levels fall so too do
G C G C G C the insulin levels� ()
C G C G C G Before the meal glucagon levels are high because no glucose is
A T A T A T being absorbed by the small intestine� () At the 1�5-hour time
T A T A T A point on the graph, when the glucose levels reach the high end of
G C G C G C the normal glucose range, glucagon levels start to fall () and
C G C G C G continue to do so until glucose levels return back to the normal
A T A T A T range of 70 to 110 mg/dl� At this point the glucagon concentration
levels off and then slowly begins to rise again� ()
A point mutation is a mistake in one of the bases in a nucleotide of
DNA� This can occur because of the action of a mutagen or if a
28 a This question is straight recall but you need to make sure you
mistake occurs during replication and the normal correction
answer all parts.
processes do not work� () If the change is a substitution of one
base for another there is only one change in the DNA molecule� If A genetic disorder is an inherited disorder or disease caused by
one additional nucleotide is inserted or a nucleotide deleted the genetic mutations passed down from parent(s) to offspring (); for
whole of the following sequence of DNA will be altered� () example, Huntington’s disease is disease caused by a faulty gene that
makes an abnormal, toxic version of the Huntington protein� ()
26 a You need to make clear connections between structure and The toxic protein collects in the brain, causing damage to brain and
function for the two listed diseases and other examples you have nerve cells� ()
researched.
b This part of the question brings together your understanding
Cystic fibrosis is caused by a defective transport protein that
of genetic techniques that can be used to prevent disease as well
impacts the functioning of membranes in a range of body organs�
as your study of ethical issues. Make sure you answer both parts
Change in the primary structure of the protein impacts on mucus
of the question; that is, choose an example of a genetic technique
secretions; that is, on protein functioning throughout the body� () and provide one ethical concern for that technique.
Motor neurone disease is not well understood but the suggestion that Researchers are studying how genetic engineering can alter genes in
protein levels can become toxic because of a failure to break down human embryos to potentially eliminate risks of genetic diseases;
the proteins emphasises their importance in cell functioning� () that is, prevent genetic disorders from being passed from one
Diseases such as prion diseases also demonstrate that the structure generation to the next by genetically modifying the DNA of the
of proteins is critical to their proper functioning as defective embryo� ()
proteins destroy the brain’s structure and functioning� () Ethical concerns are that the technology will be developed to
manipulate human traits and alter the genetic sequencing of human
b You need to identify and provide information about the cause embryos based on preference� This is sometimes called manipulating
of genetic change. ‘designer babies’ and goes against the nature of heredity� () Those
The genetic change is a point mutation () and in the case of cystic opposed to the technology being used this way say that scientists
fibrosis a single nucleotide polymorphism results in a substituted should use the technology only for treating medical problems and
amino acid in the polypeptide� () not for choosing traits in embryos� ()

c You need to demonstrate your ability to interpret a pedigree 29 a ] Demonstrate your understanding of social, economic and
diagram to construct a Punnett square and clearly indicate the cultural contexts from the examples given for various
probability of the outcome. approaches to managing malaria.
Let C represent the allele for normal transmembrane protein and c Social contexts include the many small farmers in Asia and
the defective form that causes cystic fibrosis� Both parents must be collectors in China who rely on the natural source of the anti-
heterozygous for cystic fibrosis� () malarial drug artemisinin () and whose livelihoods are threatened
by competition by the use of yeast and gene technology� ()
Male gametes→ C c
Female gametes↓ Economic contexts include the high and/or prohibitive costs of
production of the anti-malarial drug artemisinin and the research
C CC cC () and development costs of using gene drives and CRISPR-Cas 9 to
develop mosquitoes that are unable to be vectors of the malarial
c Cc cc () parasite� () Having patents or intellectual property rights that
control the use of gene technologies could lead to situations in
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

Offspring have a one in four probability of having cystic fibrosis

which the needed drugs were too expensive for populations in Asia
and a one in two chance of being a heterozygous carrier� ()
and Africa� ()
27 To answer this question you need to understand the role of Cultural contexts include belief systems that impact on the
glucagon and insulin in maintaining homeostasis for glucose. willingness to adopt medical interventions or the use of
Remember that the pancreas produces two hormones—insulin and environmentally damaging pesticides� Without pesticides there
glucagon—that regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. Insulin would need to be increased emphasis on simple preventative
lowers blood glucose (blood sugar) levels by facilitating glucose measures such as mosquito nets or using minnows as biological
transport from the blood into cells. Glucagon raises blood glucose controls� () Some belief systems are opposed to the use of
levels by metabolising glycogen into glucose. When the system is vaccines to prevent infectious disease� ()
functioning properly there is always some insulin and some
glucagon being produced to create a balance between glucose
release into the blood and glucose uptake into cells.

248 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

15 Which
b
ofThe
theterm
below is the correct sequence in A bacteria
evaluate means to make judgements based on criteria. In this question you need to evaluate the benefits or advantages and possible
polypeptide synthesis? prion prevent the spread of the disease malaria? In answering this
negative consequences and/or limitations of each procedure; that is, does itBeffectively
A transcription, tRNA
part of the question moves
it would befrom
helpfulthe nucleusyour
to organise to answer in a table. One fungiis given for the evaluation of each procedure.
C mark
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation D virus
Evaluation
B transcription, mRNA moves from nucleus to
Procedure described Benefits/Advantages 20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
Consequences/Limitations
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
pesticides more available and affordable than other controlA genetic can have negative impacts on human health and the
drift
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription
methods environment; resistance of mosquitoes to pesticides is a
B gene flow
D transcription, mRNA moves from ribosome in limitation
C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation
surface minnows a cost-effective procedure D genetic
may have erosion
negative consequences on biodiversity
16 The ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign started in the 1980s in
chloroquine
Australia with the aim of generally effective
preventing skinagainst some
cancer. Plasmodium
Since protozoan resistance to the drug means that the virulent
species and is safe for children and pregnant Section II: 80
forms willmarks
survive to reproduce, which could result in an
then the incidence of thewomen two most common forms of
and cheaper than some other treatments increase in the population of virulent form of protozoans
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of: Attempt questions 21–32.
Aeducation programs
an increased cost-effective
understanding of theforms of prevention
genetics of skin and can have Allow
a about 2 hours
availability and 25insect
of netting, minutes for this
repellent andsection.
protective clothing
cancer� greater reach and coverage than some other Instructions: may be a problem in some regions, particularly rural and
methods as well as targeting those communities • In theremote
HSC Examareasyou will answer the questions in the
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a
at highest risk spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease�
Cvaccines
the effectiveness of anhave been shown
educational to be highly
campaign foreffective
a for the expected length
the high ofvaccines
cost of response. and community mistrust could be
prevention, control and even eradication of • Showlimiting
some all relevant working
factors, in questions
particularly involving
in developing countries
disease caused by environmental exposure�
infectious diseases that were once common calculations.
D the effectiveness of targeting
globally specific populations�
17 Which of the
artemisinin following naturally
from occurring and traditionally used 21
are all mutagens? Briefly outline how
affordability is anpopulation genetics
issue as supplies of thehas
drughelped
may bein limited
gamma
Anatural rays, oncoviruses,
sources alkylating agents treatment, especially
useful for supplementing
understanding human evolution. (3 marks)
increasing production of artemisinin could be a solution but
B radio waves, visible light,
wheremicrowaves
there are drug-resistant Plasmodium may impact negatively on farming areas and communities
22 Construct a simple model to summarise plant and
C chlorophyll, progesterone,
may bepolypeptides
cost effective drug companies
animal responses towill use the plant for commercial gain
infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase without the informed consent of communities and without
any benefits
Different
23 flowing
pathogens back
have to communities
different modesthat of have
18 What is the most correct description of homeostasis? traditionally used the plant
transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which
genetic engineering to genetic engineering increases production of you classified
the drug isin yourby
limited study provide
its cost an example of the
and availability
change in the external
produce the precursor
or internal environment is
artemisinin and could make the treatment morepathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected and appropriate
of artemisinin responses occur through
affordable list each pathogen’s mode of transmission. Construct a
neural pathways� genetic engineering could also increase the table to organise the answer. (4 marks)
B Homeostasis involvesamount a stimulus-response model in that the plant
of anti-malarial chemicals
which change in the external
can produceor internal environment 24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
is detected and appropriate responses occur through of hormones
CRISPR-Cas9 gene engineering the genes of vectors such as the use of in the progression
genetic engineering toof pregnancy
control a diseaseand birth
vector raises
hormones�
editing and gene drive mosquitoes can control the spread of diseases in mammals.ethical questions; for example, modified genes could(8escape
marks)
Homeostasis involves a stimulus-response model in
Ctechnology the species boundary of the mosquito and cause problems in
which change in the external or internal environment other species, leading to unforeseen ecological consequences
Relative hormone concentration

is detected and appropriate responses occur via Oestrogens

negative feedback�
30 These predictions focus on the potential medical applications of 31 The question tests your knowledge of how the human immune
Progesterone
HomeostasisAsinvolves
D biotechnology. a nerve
a comparison, pathway
possible model
directions in
in agricultural system responds to exposure to a pathogen. It requires recall of the
which
and change
industrial in the external
applications or internal
could provide environment
contrasting ideas. Sample innate and adaptive (specific) immune systems as well as vaccines.
is detected
answers and
are also appropriate
given responses
for these two areas. occur via a The image shows phagocytosis of a pathogen () by a white
negative
Medical feedback�of gene technologies, such as production of
applications blood cell called a macrophage� ()
human insulin and other hormones and peptides, have been Chorionic
b The innate immune system in the human body is the general
gonadotropin
19 Theaccepted
imagemore
below represents
widely which type
than applications of production
in food pathogen?so it is defense system and is not specialised for specific pathogens� ()
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

reasonable to project that the more personalised approach to The specific immunity refers to the adaptive immune system,
medicine described would ensue� () Birth
0 4 which
8 12 acts specifically
16 20 24against26 certain
32 36antigens� ()
40 commences
There may be more pressure on acceptance of GM food as the c B cells produce
Weeks ofantibodies
pregnancy() and T cells release certain
population grows and current agricultural practices result in chemicals or act as killer cells� ()
environmental degradation� () Crops could be grown that are more Source: By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
nutritional and in a much wider range of environmental conditions d Adjuvants
licenses/by/3.0)], are ingredients
via Wikimedia Commons in vaccines� () Adjuvants amplify
to address human food demand� () Food could be produced in immune responses by targeting the defence cells and chemicals
bioreactors so that natural environments can be conserved� () of the innate defence system� ()
Industrial applications could see the further development of
renewable energy resources and reduce greenhouse gases to better
manage global warming� () Waste could become a dated concept
with all products and/or by-products being used in different ways� ()

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION ANSWERS 249

 32 Make sure you name the practical application as well as the 9 B� Aneuploidy is an additional or missing chromosome, usually
non-infectious disease or disorder it is used to treat. You could resulting from non-disjunction in cell replication� A, C and D are
consider using dot points for your answer. all examples of point mutations�
A cochlear implant or bionic ear is used to help people who have
10 A� The diagram shows the transition from the polypeptide to the
severe to profound hearing loss and/or damage to the inner ear or
protein (insulin)� B and C are incorrect because they are processes
auditory nerve� ()
that occur in cell replication� D is wrong because the diagram
Cochlear implants work by wearing a sound processor behind the represents a molecule, not a chromosome�
ear which has a microphone that picks up sounds in the person’s
environment� () The sound processor then converts the sound 11 B� The structure of proteins is vital for their functioning� A is wrong
into an electrical impulse that passes through the skin to a receiver because proteins have many roles in addition to being enzymes� C and
surgically inserted and attached to the skull� The receiver relays the D are wrong as they are not functions of hormonal proteins�
electrical impulse to an electrode array that has been surgically
12 B� Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which the body becomes resistant
inserted into the cochlea to produce the sensation of sound at
to the normal effects of insulin or gradually loses the ability to
specific frequencies (pitches)� ()
produce enough insulin� A is wrong because gestational diabetes is
Improvements in cochlear implant technologies include a form that is first diagnosed during pregnancy� C is wrong because
applications that are compatible with iPods, iPhones and iPads� chronic disease is a general term for diseases that tend to be long
Hybrid technologies are being developed that combine a hearing lasting and persistent in their symptoms or development� D is
aid and a cochlear implant in the one device� () incorrect because pre-diabetes refers to impaired glucose tolerance�
This is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than
normal but less than required for a diagnosis of diabetes�
Sample HSC ExAMINATION II
13 C� Gene and whole organism cloning are gauged by the percentage
Section I success rate� A is wrong as it only refers to whole organism cloning�
B is incorrect as antibiotic resistance is often linked to a cloned
1 C� Direct transmission is direct contact from one host to another�
gene� Successful clones can be screened but the process does not
A, B and D are wrong because these are all indirect forms of
work for whole organism cloning� D is wrong because it refers to
transmission�
only one possible application of whole organism cloning�
2 C� Tissue culture uses understanding of plant mitosis and sterile
14 B� Sources of variation in cell replication are crossing over and
conditions to create large numbers of plant clones� A, B and D all
random segregation (and mutation)� A is wrong because it includes
relate to techniques that are used for animal reproduction�
DNA replication and C is wrong because both processes result in
3 B� One of the chemical responses of plants to the presence of replication� D is incorrect because it lists mutagens�
pathogens is the production of specific receptors called resistance
15 A� Prevalence is the number of cases or the proportion of cases in a
peptides that kill pathogens or stop them spreading� A, C and D are
population in a given time period� B is wrong because mortality
physical plant responses and therefore incorrect�
refers to numbers of deaths� C is incorrect because incidence refers
4 D� Bacteria are prokaryotic and lack a nucleus whereas protists are to the number of new cases in a specific time period� D is wrong
eukaryotic� Bacterial fission is different from mitosis� Mitosis is the because even though the number of cases of dementia is increasing—
basis of binary fission in protists� A, B and C are all incorrect as a result of the number of older people as a proportion of the
statements� population increasing—this is not about population aging�
5 C� If the bacterium is not recognised by phagocytes it is able to get 16 B� An antigen is any substance, microbe or pathogen that is usually
past the body’s first line of defence and enter into the bloodstream� foreign to an organism’s own body and thus triggers an immune
A is incorrect because when a pathogen is composed of molecules response� An antibody is a protein capable of interacting with a
that are different to the host’s it will be recognised as non-self and specific antigen� A is only partly correct and therefore not the best
an immune response will be triggered� B is incorrect because an option: antigen does refer to the invading pathogen but the antibody
inflammation response is designed to either kill the pathogen or is not the pathogen� C is wrong because antigens are not white blood
prevent it from spreading� D is wrong because macrophages are cells and antibodies are mainly made by plasma cells or B cells�
part of the body’s immune defence which prevent the entry of D is incorrect because even though antigens can refer to toxins
pathogens into the host� produced by pathogens, antibodies attach to and neutralise toxins�
6 C� Random drift causes changes in allele frequency because of events 17 D� A single nucleotide base substitution in at least 1% of population
such as random mating� A and B relate to changes in frequency is an SNP� A is wrong as the change is not large enough to be a
resulting from natural selection� D is wrong because gene flow is a chromosomal mutation� B and C are incorrect as the figure involves
result of immigrants bringing different alleles into a population� substitution as opposed to the insertion or deletion of a nucleotide�
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

7 D� The primary target for prevention needs to be teenagers and 18 A� Without cell replication multicellular organisms could not grow
young adults� An education campaign through social media has and unicellular organisms could not reproduce� B and C are wrong
been shown to be effective� A and B are wrong because they are not because they relate to sexual reproduction, which is not universal
strategies for prevention� C is partly correct but the primary target across all life forms� D is incorrect because it refers only to
needs to be the young people rather than the parents� reproduction in bacteria and some fungi�
8 A� This option correctly identifies that better health and increased 19 B� According to the graph, expenditure on cardiovascular disease
life expectancy are benefits for society that could reasonably be totalled around 13�8 million dollars� All other diseases were less
projected into the future� B and D are incorrect because they do not than that in terms of expenditure so options A, C and D are
list benefits for society� C is wrong because genetic technologies will incorrect�
not directly eliminate mutagens though they may make screening
and treating better�

250 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

 Which
15 20 of the belowdisease
D� Foot-and-mouth is the iscorrect sequence
a disease in has been
in cattle that A bacteria
24 a You need to interpret the steps in the model of mitosis, identify
polypeptide
successfullysynthesis?
kept out of Australia by quarantine� A is wrong because B prion
key events represented and give information about the changes
transcription,
A sickle-cell anaemiatRNA moves
is a genetic from Bthe
disease� nucleusbecause
is incorrect to C fungi
that are occurring.
smallpox
ribosome hasin
been by vaccination� C is wrong because
controlledtranslation
cytoplasm, D 1virus
DNA has replicated, nuclear membrane disappears, chromatids
B lung cancer is caused
transcription, mRNA primarily
movesby smoking and quarantine
from nucleus to is condense, joined by centromeres, centrioles form
ineffective in stopping smoking�
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation 20 Which of themove
2 centrioles following is a use
apart, joined of biotechnology
by spindle fibres () in
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to agriculture
3 chromatids that could
joined increase
to spindle biodiversity?
at centromeres and are lined up
Section II
A genetic
along thedrift
‘Equator’
ribosome in cytoplasm, transcription
21 B 4gene
centrioles
flowmove apart and the chromatids separate, going to
D atranscription, mRNA
The question moves
asks you from
to relate tworibosome in
different understandings:
opposite poles ()
plant responses to infections and Aboriginal bush medicines. C gene cloning
cytoplasm to the nucleus, translation 5 centrioles and spindles break down and the nuclear membrane
Eucalyptus oil contains antibacterial properties and is used by D genetic
starts to erosion
form
16 TheEucalypts
‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ campaign
as a preformed chemicalstarted
defence in the 1980s
against inof
the entry 6 cytokinesis completes the mitosis cell division to divide cytoplasm
Australia
pathogens�with
()the
Thisaim
makesof itpreventing
an effective skin cancer. Since
bush medicine that has between
Section II: 80two cells ()
marks
then thetraditionally
been incidenceused of the two mostAustralians�
by Indigenous common forms () of
skin cancer has declined. This provides an example of: Attempt
b questions 21–32.
This question requires that you identify meiosis as the other
This is a recall
A ban increased question. of the genetics of skin
understanding Allow about
type of2 cell
hours andand
division 25 minutes for this
highlight how section.
it differs from mitosis.
Aboriginal
cancer� protocols are used in the development of medicines to Instructions:
Mitosis, as described in part a above, is cell replication that results
ensure recognition and protection of Indigenous cultural and
B the effectiveness of an educational campaign for a • In the HSC
in two Exam cells
identical youfrom
will answer the questions
the one parent in theis the cell
cell� () Meiosis
intellectual property () and as guides to ethical practices and the spaces provided.
division These
which results spaces
in the provide
reduction guidancenumbers
of chromosome for theby
genetic disease�
equitable sharing of benefits that come from using bush medicines half� Genetic
expected lengthvariation results from meiosis because of random
of response.
C inthe
theeffectiveness
pharmaceuticalofindustry�
an educational
() campaign for a segregation and crossing over� Meiosis results in four unique
• Show all relevant working in questions involving
disease caused by environmental exposure� haploid cells from the one diploid parent cell� ()
calculations.
D theYou
22 effectiveness of targeting
need to describe specific
the key events populations�
in fertilisation and
implantation and methodically examine them for their role in 25 a This is a sample answer. Half a mark is given for correctly
17 Which of the
producing new following
generationsareof all mutagens?
offspring. 21 Briefly outline how
completing population
each part genetics has helped in
of the model.
gamma rays,
A Fertilisation is a oncoviruses, alkylating
key event in sexual agents
reproduction because without understanding human evolution. (3 marks)
Stimulus increase in body temperature when
radio
B the unionwaves,
of thevisible
male andlight, microwaves
female gametes offspring would not
exercising or when external
22 Construct a simple model to summarise planttemperature
and
C eventuate� If fertilisation
chlorophyll, failed across
progesterone, a species then the long-term
polypeptides is hot
continuity of that species would be at risk� () Because it is a source animal responses to infection. (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase
of genetic diversity fertilisation is a key process contributing to the
continuity 23 Different pathogens have
Receptors different modes
thermoreceptors of detect change
in the skin
18 What is the of species�
most () description of homeostasis?
correct in temperature; receptors in the
transmission. For four different types of pathogens that
A Homeostasis involves abystimulus
Implantation is the process which themodel
embryoinembeds
whichin the hypothalamus detect rise in blood
lining of the uterus of placental and marsupial mammals to allow you classified in yourtemperature
study provide an example of the
change in the external or internal environment is
development of the foetus, making it essential for continuity of the pathogen and the infectious disease that it causes and
detected
species and groups�
in these appropriate
() responses occur through list eachpathway
Afferent pathogen’s
to mode of transmission.
heat loss Construct isa
centre in the hypothalamus
neural pathways� control centre the activated
Species that reproduce asexually such as fungi (budding, spores), table to organise answer. (heat promoting centre(4shuts
marks)
Homeostasis
B bacteria involves
(binary fission) a protists
and stimulus-response
(binary fission,model in and
budding) off)
whichreproducing
plants change invegetatively
the external or internal
do not environment
rely on either fertilisation or 24 Use the graph and your own analysis to explain the role
is detected for
implantation andtheir
appropriate responsesThe
asexual reproduction� occur through
continuity of a of hormones in the progression of pregnancy and birth
species relies on genetic diversity so asexual reproduction may not
hormones� Control centre hypothalamus
in mammals. (8 marks)
C provide enough diversity
Homeostasis involvestoasupport natural selection
stimulus-response in a changing
model in Efferent pathway message sent from the hypothalamus to
environment� () from the control blood vessels in the skin and sweat glands
which change in the external or internal environment
Relative hormone concentration

centre to the (for example)

23 ais detected
This is aand appropriate
straight responses occur via
recall question. receptors Oestrogens
negative feedback�
The answer is incidence of disease� ()
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in Progesterone
bwhichWhen
change in thethis
answering external
questionormake
internal environment
sure you justify or
is support
detected yourand appropriate
answer using theresponses occur via
data provided. Receptors such as blood vessels dilate, capillaries become
glands, blood flushed with blood and sweat glands are
negative
The feedback�
data shows that in developing countries the higher proportion
vessels and skeletal activated Chorionic
was due to infections� () This suggests that infections are more
Thelikely
image below muscles gonadotropin
19 where there represents which
is poor sanitation andtype of pathogen?
contaminated water, and
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

where there are lower standards of health care and understanding

of infectious agents� () Birth
0 4
8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40 commences
c There are a number of ways to answer this question. Make
Response heat radiates from the skin’s surface so
Weeks of pregnancy
sure the strategy is about prevention rather than treatment. that the body cools down; evaporative
Source: By OpenStax College [CCheat
BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
loss due to perspiration
Naming two strategies will result in two marks. licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Examples include vaccination (e�g� vaccination against human
Negative feedback blood temperature drops
papillomavirus (HPV) which causes cervical cancer), education
campaigns to prevent transmission of the infectious agent, ()
improved sanitation and clean water supplies to reduce the risks of
infection, and community-wide screening programs to detect early
signs of the cancer� ()

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION ANSWERS 251

 Compared with DNA, protein structures are much more varied�
b This is a higher-order question that asks you to apply your
Some may be long and can interact together, such as actin and
understanding of structural and physiological adaptations for
myosin which bring about muscle contraction� Other proteins have
thermoregulation. You need to know that humans are
endotherms in order to answer this question correctly.
a specific shape to interact with other molecules in order to bring
about chemical changes (enzymes)� Other proteins store and
Adaptations considered would include structural and physiological transport (e�g� haemoglobin) while others control entry into cells,
adaptations that help control the exchange of heat with the provide mechanical support, control metabolism (hormones) or
environment� () These include insulation or small surface area to recognise foreign substances (antibodies)�The structures of proteins
minimise heat loss () along with blood flow (); for example, suit their many purposes� ()
reducing blood flow to extremities to keep the core of the body
warm� () 27 a This is a straight recall question. You could answer with either
epidemic or pandemic.
26 To answer this question you need to explain the structure and
function of DNA, then the structure and function of proteins, and
An epidemic is the rapid spread of infectious disease to a large
then outline the relationship between DNA and proteins. Diagrams number of people in a particular population in a relatively short
should show the double helical structure of DNA and contrast that period of time� () A pandemic is the rapid global spread of
with the variable structure of proteins, such as the secondary (alpha infectious disease� ()
and beta sheets), tertiary and quaternary arrangements.
b Make sure you relate your answer to mobility. Note: The diseases
3' 5' Nitrogenous bases: in the question are all zoonotic diseases; that is, diseases that can
Adenine spread between animals and humans.
Thymine
Guanine
The speed and volume of the mobility of individuals and human
Cytosine population movement is unprecedented in human history� Given
the speed of travel it is possible for an infected individual to travel
the globe within the incubation period of a disease, thereby causing
an exponential increase in contacts� ()
Global changes in land and animal use have significantly increased
the risk of zoonotic diseases in humans� Increases in human
Base pair population make it easier for diseases to spread and bring more
people in closer contact with other animals� ()

Sugar-phosphate c Many factors can contribute to the spread of disease during

backbone an epidemic. Sample answers are provided. Consider using dot
points for your answer. One mark is given for each correct point.
Note: More information is given below than you would need to
provide to obtain two marks.
()
3' Transmission of a disease during an epidemic is usually rapid� Key
5'
factors that increase exposure to pathogens and cause the spread of
DNA is the genetic code and the structure of the molecule has to disease are:
ensure its replication and allow for the synthesis of polypeptides� () • a continual source of the disease; for example, a reservoir such
DNA
aminoisacids
a polymer made of nucleotide monomers in two strands as a contaminated water supply
running in opposite directions� The four bases on the nucleotides • environmental factors such as changes in climate
are arranged in specific pairs held together by hydrogen bonds� • loss of healthcare systems and shortage of medical supplies; for
During polypeptide synthesis each triplet of bases is the code for example, as a result of civil war
alpha helix
the insertion of a specific amino acid in a sequence that forms a
• natural disasters such as flooding, which can damage sewerage
polypeptide� () The double helical shape encloses the base pairs as
system infrastructure
a form of protection from mutagens in order to ensure stability of
the code� • an increase in the amount of the pathogen or new strains of the
pleated sheet
pathogen that can be spread from animals to humans
• introduction of the pathogen into an area where the pathogen
has not been before; for example, because of deforestation
• slow responses by health agencies at the start of the epidemic�

d As with part c, consider using dot points for your answer.

© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

One mark is given for each correct point.

() • Modelling with computers is used to predict future occurrences

of disease along with projecting and simulating how a disease
Proteins are complex polymers made up of various numbers of
will progress and spread� Modelling can also simulate the effects
polypeptide chains� Each polypeptide chain consists of up to 20
of possible interventions� ()
different amino acids (monomers) forming the primary structure� ()
The amino acids interact with each other, forming beta sheets and • Restriction measures include travel restrictions and increased
alpha helixes at various places along a polypeptide which results in quarantine surveillance� ()
its secondary structure� These may fold together to form the tertiary • Event-based surveillance systems can systematically scan a
structure (as shown in the diagram)� Finally, a protein may form from multitude of informal sources; for example, news reports, online
at least one or more polypeptide chains interacting together� () newspapers, social media and internet-based searches can all
assist in ensuring a rapid response to outbreaks� ()

252 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY

15 WhichYou
28
ofneed
the below is the correct sequence in
to interpret the pedigree diagram showing normal
bacteria
Both A
DNA sequencing and DNA profiling have used technologies
polypeptide synthesis? such as the polymerase chain reaction to increase the quantity of
prion B
inheritance of a mutation and compare it with that showing the
DNA being analysed along with electrophoresis for separation and
transcription,
A pattern tRNA
of inheritance moves
with from
the added thedrive.
gene nucleus to fungi C
comparison of the lengths of the DNA fragments� () Both DNA
ribosome
Using in cytoplasm,
the pedigree translation
diagram for normal inheritance it is apparent virus
sequencing D
and DNA profiling have undergone dramatic
transcription,
B that the normal ormRNA moves
wild type allele isfrom nucleus
recessive to the fly with
() and improvements in the technologies applied and reductions in the
the altered allele was heterozygous dominant meaning that half of 20 Which of the following is a use of biotechnology in
ribosome in cytoplasm, translation time taken to complete the processes� ()
its offspring showed the phenotype for the altered allele� () This
C translation, mRNA moves from the nucleus to
agriculture that could increase biodiversity?
pattern of inheritance predicts that 12�5% of offspring will have the A genetic
31 The keydrift
to answering this question is to identify the types of
ribosome
altered allele in cytoplasm,
in the transcription
third generation as demonstrated in the pedigree gene flow
B mutagens—chemical, electromagnetic and natural—and make
transcription,
D diagram� () mRNA moves from ribosome in
C judgements
gene cloningas to how they could be used to best promote mutations
cytoplasm
With the geneto theinheritance
drive nucleus, translation
shown in the figure all offspring of in plants.
D genetic erosion
16 Thethe‘Slip,
parents withSlap’
Slop, altered alleles have
campaign the altered
started allele
in the in their
1980s in Gamma rays are a high-energy, high-frequency, short wavelength
phenotype�
Australia with()the
Thisaimmeans that even when
of preventing the cancer.
skin offspringSince
mate with form of ionising electromagnetic radiation� () Gamma rays can be
wild-type flies all offspring have the altered allele� This is because the Section II: 80
sourced frommarks
radioisotopes such as potassium-40� Gamma rays
then the incidence of the two most common forms of
gene drive ‘edits’ the allele on the other homologous chromosome, have been shown to produce mutations in both seeds and pollen,
skin
converting has
cancer it to declined. This ()
the altered allele� provides an example
As the altered of:
allele attached Attempt questions 21–32.
and have successfully been used in the production of mutant rice
A toantheincreased
gene driveunderstanding of the genetics
always becomes homozygous of skinpassed
it is always Allow about 2 hours and 25 minutes for this section.
lines� Gamma rays often result in chromosome aberrations and
cancer�
on to the offspring� In the offspring the gene drive makes the allele Instructions:
safety precautions must be used when handling radioisotopes� ()
B homozygous and so on
the effectiveness of through generations�
an educational ()
campaign for a • In the HSC Exam you will answer the questions in the
Chemical mutagens used in plant breeding are often the alkylating
spaces provided. These spaces provide guidance for the
genetic disease� agents such as ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)� () These agents add
29 a This is a straight recall question which demonstrates your expected length of chains)
alkyl (hydrocarbon response.
to the bases of DNA, causing changes
C the effectiveness of an educational campaign
involves for a
understanding of scientific method. Validity designing • Showsuchallasrelevant working but
base substitutions, in questions involving
are generally much easier and safer
disease caused by environmental
your investigations to use independent, exposure�
dependent and calculations.
to handle than gamma rays� ()
D the effectiveness
controlled of to
variables targeting specific
ensure a valid populations�
procedure. Below is a
sample answer. Natural mutagens include certain viruses that are known to induce
17 Which of ensure
I would the following
controlledare all mutagens?
variables; that is, the factors that are kept 21 Briefly
point outline
mutationshow population
(insertions, genetics
deletions has helpedinin
and substitutions) DNA,
gammaduring
A constant rays, oncoviruses, alkylating
the procedure� This agentshaving the same
would include particularly in mammalian
understanding cells� () Transposable elements
human evolution. such as
(3 marks)
transposons, retrotransposons and retroviruses are mutagens that
radio waves,
B amount visible
of agar in light,dish,
each Petri microwaves
ensuring the same temperature
22 Construct a simpleasmodel
could be classified natural to summarise
because they are plant and
self-replicating
C for each Petri dish
chlorophyll, () and having
progesterone, the same amount of food sample
polypeptides segments of DNA to thatinfection.
excise and/or insert themselves within the
and the same time for incubation� () animal responses (4 marks)
D vitamin A, ribonucleic acid, DNA polymerase genome� Transposable elements have an advantage in mutation
Thismost
is a straight recall question which demonstrates your 23 Different
breedingpathogens havethe
of plants because different modes
changes they of are not random;
promote
18 What
b is the correct description of homeostasis? that is, there are
understanding of safe work practices and managing the risks transmission. Forplaces
fourwhere they are
different moreoflikely
types to insert that
pathogens
A Homeostasis involves a stimulus model in which themselves or replicate� ()
associated with inoculating nutrient agar plates and growing you classified in your study provide an example of the
change in the
microbes. Oneexternal or internal
mark is given environment
for each correct procedure.is Your
pathogen
32 a and
You needthetoinfectious
present ideas disease
on how that it causes
the social and
and economic
detected and appropriate
answer could have includedresponses occur
any two of the through
points below.
list each pathogen’s
benefits flowing tomode
certainofindividuals
transmission. Construct
and groups a on
will impact
neural
Safe workpathways�
practices and risk management include: theorganise
support and use of biotechnology.
table to the answer. (4 marks)
B •Homeostasis involves
the use of protective a stimulus-response
clothing; model
for example, enclosed in
shoes, The acceptance and use of biotechnology is influenced by social
which
masks, change
lab coat, ingloves
the external or internal
and protective eyewearenvironment 24 Usecontexts�
the graph
Someand your own
individuals and analysis
groups in to explain
society have the role
concerns
•is sterilising
detected flaming transfer loops,
and appropriate wires or needles
responses immediately
occur through of hormones in the
regarding animal progression
welfare, the use ofof pregnancy
chemicals in theand birth
environment
before
hormones� and after transfer of samples and the methods used in food production� These can restrict the
in mammals. (8 marks)
C •Homeostasis
ensuing the correct
involveslabelling of all samples
a stimulus-response model in acceptance of some applications of biotechnology� () Some groups
• thorough cleaning of work surfaces may fear the impact of altering natural processes in animals by the
which change in the external or internal environment
Relative hormone concentration

• washing hands thoroughly before leaving the laboratory use of rBGH or be concerned that food labelling may not accurately
is detected and appropriate responses occur via describe what they are purchasing and whetherOestrogens
the food contains
• autoclaving agar plates at the end of the investigation to ensure
negative feedback� high levels of hormones� ()
harmful microbes are destroyed� Progesterone
D Homeostasis involves a nerve pathway model in Farmers who can afford rBGH and benefit from it may support its
30 which change
The answer in thebelow
is given external
as an or internalbut
explanation environment
you may find use whereas others who cannot afford it or have concerns for animal
is detected
that that the use and of appropriate
dot points or aresponses occur
table will help with via
the three health may oppose it� ()
aspects
negative of comparing
feedback�DNA sequencing with profiling. Economic and social contexts interact� If societal pressures reduce
DNA sequencing enables mapping of species genomes by determining Chorionic
sales of a product, thereby making it not economically viable, then
19 The
theimage below
order of represents
the nucleotide which
bases on all type
DNA of pathogen?
in an organism () gonadotropin
the application of the specific biotechnology becomes defunct� ()
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

while DNA profiling uses the unique genetic make-up of individuals

for analysis of crime scene samples, unidentified remains and b Birthwith the
Arguments about what is ethically right or wrong
confirming family relationships� () 0 4 8 12 16 20 24 26 32 36 40 commences
uses of biotechnology need to be developed in your response to
Weeks of pregnancy
this question.
DNA profiling relies on comparing sections of non-coding DNA
that are highly variable in length; that is, variable number tandem Ethical
Source: By uses College
OpenStax of biotechnology are about ensuring that benefits to
[CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/
repeats (VNTRs) and short tandem repeats (STRs)� Particular enzymes society and
licenses/by/3.0)], the environment
via Wikimedia Commons outweigh any harm, particularly to
called nucleases break the DNA from the sample into these societal groups or animals that may not have any choice about the
fragments� () DNA sequencing also uses enzymes and involves applications of biotechnology� () An ethical use of biotechnology
breaking fragments at particular nucleotide bases that are identified could be the development of biofuels that reverse the impact of
in some way or by synthesising fragments from a single DNA global warming� Other uses could include more effective
strand that acts as a template� () bioremediation of land or the protection or restoration of damaged
ecosystems such as coral reefs� ()

238 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY SAMPLE HSC EXAMINATION ANSWERS 253

 33 When you compare the studies and results show how they are 34 You only need to choose one disorder. When you evaluate
similar and how they are different. Remember that prevalence effectiveness consider the value of the technology and other factors
measures the number or proportion of cases in a population at a such as the extent to which it assists with the effects of the disorder,
given time. as well as its cost and affordability. Make sure you answer both parts
The sample study chosen for this answer is the epidemiology of of the question: you need to describe and evaluate a current
technology and describe a possible future research and technology.
vitamin D deficiency, a nutritional disease caused by insufficient
The sample answer provided relates to visual disorders.
exposure to the sun, often as a result of the use of sunscreen, skin
pigmentation and clothing habits� Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin Example of current technology: the visual disorder is cataracts,
needed for calcium maintenance, bone health and homeostasis� () which are the world’s leading cause of blindness� Cataracts are
Deficiency is related to diseases such as osteoporosis, hypertension, caused when proteins in the lens clump together, making the lens
diabetes and cancer� Deficiency is measured by levels of the blood cloudy and blocking and distorting the light entering the eye� ()
serum 25(OH)D� () Surgery can easily restore normal sight� Cataract surgery is an
Available prevalence data shows that vitamin D deficiency is a example of a highly effective technology as the treatment is simple�
global problem, particularly in girls and women from Middle It is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the world
Eastern countries but also in adults in many European, South and takes less than 30 minutes� Once the cloudy (opaque) natural
American and African countries� One billion people worldwide— lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens it is not possible to
about 15% of the population—are vitamin D deficient or develop another cataract� The cost in developing countries is about
insufficient� () $15 to $100 () and the major challenge is to get the treatment to
those who need it� ()
Epidemiological studies play a role in reducing the prevalence of
non-infectious diseases or disorders� The benefits of Example of future technology: the visual disorder is retinitis
epidemiological studies are evident in both the fluoridation and pigmentosa, a disease in which photoreceptor cells in the retina die
vitamin D deficiency studies� McKay’s study led to targeted public because of a gene mutation and vision dims from the outside to
health intervention that reduced tooth decay and improved oral form a tunnel of light� () Disorders of the retina are harder to
health� () Epidemiological studies of vitamin D deficiency allow treat than disorders of the lens� A bionic eye that uses a microchip
scientists to identify risk factors, target those populations that need containing thousands of photodiodes (to replace the function of the
to be screened, and determine the resources needed for health care: photoreceptor cells) has been developed and is currently in the trial
in this case diet supplementation to at-risk populations� Studies stage� The microchip is implanted among dead photoreceptor cells
have shown that vitamin D3 supplements are more effective in in the retina’s macular region, allowing the optic nerve to pick up
raising 25(OH)D levels than vitamin D supplements� () electrical signals� () The technology requires high costs for
research and development and the surgery is complex� Another
drawback is that the implant does not restore full vision and the
patient must learn to interpret the new visual data� ()
© Pascal Press ISBN 978 1 74125 674 1

254 YEAR 12 BIOLOGY