Cambridge IGCSE Biology practice

Paper 4 structured question: Heart

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Paper

Marks

Topic

Heart

Exam-style question

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Paper 4Theory (Extended)3 marks

The heart's pumping action depends on muscle contractions and valve function to maintain blood flow.

Description

The heart has atrial and ventricular muscles that contract in sequence. Valves between chambers and at exits prevent backflow.

a
Identify which muscles contract first during the heart cycle.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
[1]
b
Describe how the valves help blood flow through the heart.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 2 distinct marking points.
[2]

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Paper 4Theory (Extended)4 marks

Diagram Description

A diagram shows the four chambers of the heart with valves between atria and ventricles and at the exits of ventricles.

Step	Action
1	Atrial muscles contract
2	Blood moves into ventricles
3	Ventricular muscles contract
4	Blood is pumped out of the heart
5	Valves prevent backflow

a
Describe how the contraction of the atrial and ventricular muscles helps the heart to pump blood.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 2 distinct marking points.
[2]
b
Describe the role of the valves during the heart's pumping cycle.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 2 distinct marking points.
[2]