Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) · Combined Science (1SC0)

Natural selection and genetic modification: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 3 written questions with worked solutions. All on Natural selection and genetic modification.

8 questions24 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

During the process of genetic engineering, a specific gene is cut from a donor's DNA. Which enzyme is used to cut the DNA to leave sticky ends, and which enzyme is used to join the gene into the plasmid vector?

Question 2

1 mark

Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is often cited as modern evidence for Darwin's theory of evolution. Which of the following sequences correctly describes how a population of bacteria becomes resistant to an antibiotic?

Question 3

1 mark

In genetic engineering, which specific enzyme is used to join the sticky ends of a desired gene and a vector together to form a single piece of DNA?

Question 4

1 mark

Which of the following best describes the genomic evidence that led to the proposal of the three domains classification system (Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukaryota) instead of the five kingdoms system?

Question 5

1 mark

The discovery of fossils such as 'Ardi' (4.4 million years ago) and 'Lucy' (3.2 million years ago) provides evidence for human evolution. Which statement best describes a trend observed in the fossil record and stone tool development from the time of Ardi to the time of Leakey's discovery (1.6 million years ago)?

Question 6

5 marks

Evaluate the role of restriction enzymes and ligase in the process of genetic engineering, specifically explaining how they create recombinant DNA.

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Question 7

8 marks

(a) Describe the main stages of genetic engineering used to produce insulin-producing bacteria, including the roles of restriction enzymes, ligase, and vectors.
(b) Evaluate the ethical and practical implications of using genetic engineering in modern agriculture to produce insect-resistant crops.

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Question 8

6 marks

(a) Explain how human evolution is evidenced by the development of stone tools over time, including how these tools are dated based on their environment.
(b) Compare the fossil evidence of Ardi (from 4.4 million years ago) with Lucy (from 3.2 million years ago) in terms of what they reveal about the evolution of bipedalism.

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