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Human defences and immunity: exam questions

3 questions, 12 marks. Write your answers on paper, then open each mark scheme.

Spec 5.12–5.15BQuestions and mark scheme (PDF)3 pages
1

Describe how the nose and airways help to prevent pathogens reaching the lungs.

[3 marks]
Show mark scheme
  • mucus traps pathogens (1)
  • cilia (hairs) on the cells lining the airways (1)
  • move the mucus away from the lungs / up to the throat (1)
2

A child has chickenpox once and does not usually become ill with it again. Explain why the child does not become ill if they are infected with the chickenpox virus a second time.

[3 marks]
Show mark scheme
  • memory lymphocytes were made during the first infection (1)
  • they recognise the antigens and respond faster (1)
  • more antibodies are made quickly so the pathogen is destroyed before symptoms develop (1)
3

Explain how the immune system responds when a pathogen enters the body for the first time, and how immunisation can prevent illness when the same pathogen enters the body again.

[6 marks]
Show mark scheme
LevelMarksWhat the answer does
35–6A clear, well-structured explanation covering both the first response (antigens, antibodies, memory lymphocytes) and how immunisation leads to a faster, larger secondary response. Scientific terms are used accurately and links between ideas are clear.
23–4Explains most of the first response or immunisation, with some correct links. There may be gaps, such as not linking memory lymphocytes to the secondary response.
11–2Some correct statements about antibodies or immunisation, but little explanation and few links between ideas.

Indicative content

  • antigens on the pathogen trigger an immune response
  • the response produces antibodies that bind to the antigens and help to destroy the pathogen
  • antigens also trigger production of memory lymphocytes
  • immunisation uses an inactive form of the pathogen, which cannot cause the disease
  • the inactive pathogen still has antigens, so antibodies and memory lymphocytes are produced
  • if the live pathogen enters later, memory lymphocytes carry out a secondary response
  • this is faster and produces more antibodies, so the pathogen is destroyed before the person becomes ill
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