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Learning objective

Explain what a pathogen is, identifying it as an organism that causes disease.

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  • Read the explanation.
  • Check key terms.
  • Practise with linked questions.
Cambridge IGCSE Combined ScienceDiseases and immunityCore content

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Quick explanation

Explain what a pathogen is, identifying it as an organism that causes disease

  • This point belongs to Diseases and immunity, especially Diseases and immunity outcomes.
  • You need to be able to explain what a pathogen is, identifying it as an organism that causes disease.
  • The key ideas to know are Describe.
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

Describe

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This objective helps connect Diseases and immunity outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Diseases and immunity.

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Paper 3 structured question: Diseases and immunity

Paper 3Theory (Core)1 marks

Description

Pathogen Overview

Pathogens can be classified into different types, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Each type has unique characteristics and methods of causing disease.

  1. a

    Define the term 'pathogen'.

    Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.

    [1]
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