PARKHILL SECONDARY SCHOOL

LIFE SCIENCES

GRADE 10 EXAMINATION

2023 NOVEMBER

PAPER 1

MARKS: 150 TIME: 2½ HOURS

EXAMINER: MR W PARBADAYAL

MODERATOR:________________________________
INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

Read the following instructions carefully before answering the questions.

1. Answer ALL the questions.

2. Write ALL the answers in your ANSWER BOOK.

3. Begin the answers to each question at the top of a NEW page.

4. Number the answers correctly according to the numbering system used in this question paper.

5. Present your answers according to the instructions of each question.

6. ALL drawings should be done in pencil and labelled in blue or black ink.

7. Only draw diagrams or flow charts when asked to do so.

8. The diagrams in this question paper are NOT all drawn to scale.

9. Do NOT use graph paper.

10. Non-programmable calculators, protractors and compasses may be used.

11. Write neatly and legibly.

SECTION A
QUESTION 1

1. Various possible answers are provided for each question. Write the letter only of the
1 correct answer next to the corresponding number

1.1.1 The basic unit of life

A. zygote
B. cell
C. protoplasm
D. nucleus

1.1.2 What type of joint is formed between the humerus and the scapula?

A. Hinge joint
B. Ball and socket joint
C. Gilding joint
D. Pectoral girdle

1.1.3 Material used to store genetic information in a cell is…

A. ribosome
B. deoxyribonucleic acid
C. endoplasmic reticulum
D. centrioles

1.1.4 The diagram below shows enzyme action

What does Q above represent?

A. An enzyme
B. Enzyme substrate complex
C. Product
D. Substrate

1.1.5 The tendency of liquids to move up narrow tubes is called…

A. capillarity
B. transpiration
C. root pressure
D. transpiration pull
(5x2=10)
1. Give the correct biological term for each of the following descriptions. Write only the
2 term next to the question number.

1.2.1 A deficiency disease characterised by the yellowing of plant leaves.

1.2.2 The production of genetically identical organisms.

1.2.3 Resistance to infection by disease-causing organisms.

1.2.4 Cell organelles that are centres of cellular respiration.

1.2.5 Green pigment found in green plants.

1.2.6 Process by which gasses enters or leave the leaf.

1.2.7 Condition which occurs when a plant loses more water through transpiration
than what the roots can absorb.
(7)

1. Indicate whether each of the statements in Column A applies to A only, B only, Both A
3 and B or none of the items in Column B. Write A only, B only, both A and B or none,
next to the question.
Column A Column B
1.3.1 Reaction(s) in which enzymes are involved. A. anabolic
B. catabolic
1.3.2 Essential in hydrolytic reactions A. carbon dioxide
B. water
1.3.3 Plays a role in the synthesis of chlorophyll A. iron
B. magnesium
1.3.4 The medium in which chemical reactions A. enzymes
take place in the body B. water
1.3.5 Involved in clotting of blood A. Vitamin B1
B. Vitamin C
1.3.6 Outgrowths of epidermal cells in roots of A. root hairs
plants B. stem
1.3.7 Also known as the starch sheath A. Pericycle
B. Endodermis
1.3.8 The human skeleton A. Hydrostatic
B. Exoskeleton
1.3.9 Freely movable joints A. hinge joint
B. Gliding joint
(9x2=18)
1.4 Study the diagrams below of food tests on organic compounds. Answer the questions
that follow.

1.4.1 Which organic compound is being tested in?

i) A
ii) B (2)

1.4.2 Name the chemical used to test for sugar. (1)

1.4.3 Give the positive colour changes for the following:

i) A
ii) C
iii) D (3)
[6]
1. Study the picture below which shows chromosomes taken from a body cell of a
5 human male. Answer the questions that follow

1.5.1 Count and write down the number of chromosomes found in a human cell. (1)

1.5.2 Describe the appearance of each pair of chromosomes. (2)

1.5.3 Name the two strands that make up the chromosome. (1)

1.5.4 What chemical substance is the main constituent of chromatids? (1)

1.5.5 State why the two chromatids are identical to each other. (1)

1.5.6 Define a gene. (2)

1.5.7 Name one characteristic that are controlled by genes. (1)

[7]
SUBTOTAL SECTION A: 50 MARKS
SECTION B
QUESTION 2

2.1 The diagrams below represent different phases of a particular process.

2.1.1 Identify the process represented above. (1)

2.1.2 Label structures A, B and C. (3)

2.1.3 Which phase is represented by diagram 3? (1)

2.1.4 Draw a labelled diagram of a phase which follows the phase mentioned in
question 2.1.3 above. (3)

2.1.5 Explain what would happen if the process mentioned in question 2.1.1 does
not take place. (2)
[10]
2.2 A group of grade 10 learners conducted an experiment to test for the presence of
certain nutrients. They used egg white, glucose solution, starch powder solution as
well as olive oil. The apparatus was set up as indicated below.

2.2.1 What is the aim of Test 1 and Test 2 in the diagram above? (2)

2.2.2 Identify
i) Solution X
ii) Solution Y (2)

2.2.3 What will be the positive results for colour 1 and colour 2 in the above tests? (2)

2.2.4 Give two precautionary measures that should be taken into consideration
when setting up the above apparatus. (2)

2.2.5 List any three steps that were followed in the planning of the experiment
above. (3)

2.2.6 Suggest one way in which reliability of the experiment could be improved. (1)

2.2.7 Where in the animal tissue can you find the organic compounds tested for in
Test 1? (1)

2.2.8 Give one biological importance of the compound tested for in:
i) Test 1
ii) Test 2 (2)
[15]
2.3 The following diagrams represent different types of cells

2.3.1 Identify the type of cells represented by diagram I and II. (2)

2.3.2 Give the number and the name of the organelle which serves as a storage
site for water and mineral salts. (2)

2.3.3 Provide labels for parts A, B and C. (3)

2.3.4 State whether part D is a permeable, impermeable, or selectively permeable

membrane. Give one reason for your answer. (3)

2.3.5 A plant cell in a photograph measures 15mm across. If the actual size of the
cell is 0,015mm, what is the magnification in the photograph? (3)
[13]
2.4 Study the diagrams below and answer the questions that follow

2.4.1 Provide labels for 1 and 2 (2)

2.4.2 Give the number of the tissue that:

i) Gives rise to side/lateral roots
ii) Transports organic food in the plant
iii) Stores starch in the root
iv) Transports water in the plant (4)

2.4.3 Give one way in which the root hair is structurally adapted for its function (1)

2.4.4 Does the root hair have a cuticle? Give a reason for this. (3)

2.4.5 Predict what would happen if root hairs were not there at all. (2)
[12]
[50]
QUESTION 3

3.1 Study the diagrams below of animal tissue and answer the questions that follow.

3.1.1 Identify A and B. (2)

3.1.2 Provide labels for structures 3, 4, 8 and 10. (4)

3.1.3 Give one function of cell A. (1)

3.1.4 Give the number of the structure that:

i) Transports oxygen in the body
ii) Defends the body against viruses and bacteria (2)

3.1.5 Discuss the effect on the body if tissue A is damaged. (3)

[12]
3.2 The graph below shows the result of an investigation using a sample of men and
women

3.2.1 In the above investigation identify the:

i) Independent variables
ii) Dependant variables (3)

3.2.2 State two ways in which the reliability of the results could be improved,
other than repeating the investigation. (2)
[5]
3.3 The diagram below shows the skeleton of a greyhound dog.

3.3.1 The bones of the skeleton of the greyhound are similar to those of a human
being. Identify the bones labelled:

i) A
ii) B
iii) D (3)

3.3.2 Name the type of joint found at:

i) C
ii) E (2)

3.3.3 Suggest why the pelvis of the greyhound is long and narrow as opposed to
that of humans which is short and wide. (2)
[7]
3.4 Study the diagram below of the cross section of a dicotyledonous leaf. Answer the
questions that follow.

3.4.1 Provide a label for 1. (1)

3.4.2 List one function of structure 1. (1)

3.4.3 Xylem is a conducting tissue found in leaves. List three structural features
of xylem that allows it to perform its function. (3)
[5]

3.5 Study the diagrams below showing different types of plant tissues.

3.5.1 Identify tissue B and C. (2)

3.5.2 Explain three structural adaptations of tissue A for its functions. (6)

3.5.3 Explain why tissue C would not be suitable as the main tissue in the root
between the epidermis and the xylem. (4)
[12]
3.6 Tabulate two differences between xylem vessels and phloem sieve tubes (5)
[5]

3.7 Ligaments join bone to bone.

Explain why you would expect ligaments to be made of yellow elastic tissue rather
than white fibrous tissue. (4)
[4]

[50]
SUBTOTAL SECTION B: 100 MARKS
PAPER TOTAL: 150 MARKS
 LIFE SCIENCES
GRADE 10 EXAMINATION
2023 NOVEMBER
PAPER 1
MARKING GUIDELINES
PRINCIPLES RELATING TO MARKING LIFE SCIENCES

1. If more information than marks allocated is given

Stop marking when maximum marks are reached and put a wavy line and ‘max’ in the right-hand
margin.
2. If, for example, three reasons are required and five are given
Mark the first three irrespective of whether all or some are correct/incorrect.
3. If whole process is given when only part of it is required
Read all and credit relevant part.
4. If comparisons are asked for and descriptions are given
Accept if differences/similarities are clear.
5. If tabulation is required but paragraphs are given
Candidates will lose marks for not tabulating.
6. If diagrams are given with annotations when descriptions are required
Candidates will lose marks
7. If flow charts are given instead of descriptions
Candidates will lose marks.
8. If sequence is muddled and links do not make sense
Where sequence and links are correct, credit. Where sequence and links are incorrect, do not credit.
If sequence and links become correct again, resume credit.
9. Non-recognized abbreviations
Accept if first defined in answer. If not defined, do not credit the unrecognised abbreviation but
credit the rest of answer if correct.
10. Wrong numbering
If answer fits into the correct sequence of questions but the wrong number is given, it is acceptable.
11. If language used changes the intended meaning
Do not accept.
12. Spelling errors
If recognizable accept provided it does not mean something else in Life Sciences or if it is out of
context.
13. If common names given in terminology
Accept provided it was accepted at the National memo discussion meeting.
14. If only letter is asked for and only name is given (and vice versa)
No credit
15. If units are not given in measurements
Candidates will lose marks. Memorandum will allocate marks for units separately.
16. Be sensitive to the sense of an answer, which may be stated in a different way.
17. Caption
All illustrations (diagrams, graphs, tables, etc.) must have captions.
18. Code-switching of official languages (terms and concepts)
A single word or two that appears in any official language other than the learners’ assessment
language used to the greatest extent in his/her answers should be credited, if it is correct. A marker
that is proficient in the relevant official language should be consulted. This is applicable to all official
languages.
SECTION A
QUESTION 1
1.1. 1.1.1 B
1.1.2 B
1.1.3 B
1.1.4 D
1.1.5 A (5x2=10)

1.2 1.2.1 chlorosis

1.2.2 cloning
1.2.3 immunity
1.2.4 mitochondria
1.2.5 chloroplast
1.2.6 diffusion
1.2.7 wilting (7)

1.3 1.3.1 Both A and B

1.3.2 B only 
1.3.3 A only
1.3.4 B only
1.3.5 B only
1.3.6 B only
1.3.7 B only
1.3.8 A only
1.3.9 A only (9x2=18)

1.4 1.4.1 i) starch

ii) fats and oil (2)

1.4.2 Benedict’s solution/Fehlings A and B (1)

1.4.3 i) blue black

ii) blue-green-orange
iii) violet/rose-pink (3)
[6]

1.5 1.5.1 46 chromosomes  (1)

1.5.2 Each of the pairs has a similar structure The last pair (23rd) is different: one
is larger than the other.  (2)

1.5.3 chromatids (1)

1.5.4 DNA (1)

1.5.5 DNA is capable of duplicating itself (1)

1.5.6 A gene is a block of DNA that controls one characteristics of the organism (2)
 1.5.7 Eye colour
Height 
Shape of nose
Accept any other characteristic (Any 1) (1)
[7]
SUBTOTAL SECTION A: 50 MARKS

SECTION B
QUESTION 2

2.1 2.1.1 Mitosis (1)

2.1.2 A = nucleolus
B = chromatin network
C = cell membrane (3)

2.1.3 Metaphase (1)

2.1.4

Caption/Heading 
Correct structure
1 correct label (3)

2.1.5 No growth will occur in living organisms, no repair of worn-out tissues or

damaged tissues, no asexual reproduction in unicellular organisms
(Any 2) (2)
[10]

2.2 2.2.1 Test 1 – To determine whether protein is present or not

Test 2 – To test for the presence of reducing sugars (2)

2.2.2 i) egg white

ii) sucrose solution (2)

2.2.3 1 – brick red/deep purple

2 – orange brown (2)
 2.2.4 Do not heat the solution directly in the flame
Ensure that the test tube faces away from the face
When adding spirit in the Bunsen burner ensure that the flame is off
(Any 2) (2)

2.2.5 Ask the teacher permission to conduct the experiment

Collect all the required apparatus
Read and follow instructions carefully
Accept any other relevant answer as well. (3)

2.2.6 Increase sample food size

Repeat/do more tests
(Any 1) (1)

2.2.7 cell membrane/ chromosomes/ blood as haemoglobin/skin (Any 1) (1)

2.2.8 i) growth/repair worn-out tissue/ forms part of cell membranes/transport

oxygen to the lungs
ii) source of required energy/forms part of many parts of a cell/serve as
stored energy (2)
[15]

2.3 2.3.1 Diagram I – plant cell 

Diagram II – animal cell (2)

2.3.2 D - Vacuole (2)

2.3.3 A = cell membrane

B = nucleus
C = cell wall (3)

2.3.4 Selective membrane it allows water and mineral salts to pass through
and prevent larger molecules such as cell organelles to enter (3)

2.3.5 Magnification = 15mm/0,015 mm x 1000 (3)

[13]

2.4 2.4.1 1 = root hair

2 = epidermis (2)

2.4.2 i) 5
ii) 6
iii) 7
iv) 4 (4)

2.4.3 Large surface area speed up osmosis

Thin-walled cells easy diffusion across membrane
(Any 1) (1)

2.4.4 No. Function of cuticle is to reduce water loss Root required to absorb
water; therefore it will not allow this function (3)
 2.4.5 Since root hair increases surface area for maximum absorption, less water
and minerals will be absorbed by the root and thus growth and
functioning of the plant will be affected. (2)
[12]
[50]

QUESTION 3

3.1 3.1.1 A= motor neuron

B = Blood tissue (2)

3.1.2 3 = axon
4 = myeline sheath
8 = white blood cell/leucoplasts
10 = red blood cells/erythrocyte (4)

3.1.3 Carries impulses from the brain to the effector organ (1)

3.1.4 i) 10
ii) 8 (2)

3.1.5 Organisms will be able to detect stimuli in the environment, but not be able
to quickly respond to it to protect itself against possible injury (3)
[12]

3.2 3.2.1 i) Age and Gender

ii) Incidence of osteoporosis (3)

3.2.2 Increase the sample size

Take random samples (2)
[5]

3.3 3.3.1 i) Cranium

ii) Humerus
iii) Rib (3)

3.3.2 i) Hinge
ii) Gliding (2)

3.3.3 The greyhound is a quadruped

with the pelvis only supporting the rear part of the body (2)
[7]

3.4 3.4.1 1 = Cuticle (1)

3.4.2 Transparent allows light to enter

Prevents water loss
(Any 1) (1)
 3.4.3 Cells are cylindrical
Thick walls impregnated with lignin
Large lumen
Long tubes with bores
No cell contents
Cross walls are perforated/absent
(Any 3) (3)
[5]

3.5 3.5.1 B = Parenchyma 

C = Collenchyma (2)

3.5.2 Epidermal cells are transparent to allow sunlight to enter the leaf for
photosynthesis
Epidermal cells are closely packed to protect underlying cells
Epidermal cells in stems and leaves covered by cuticle to reduce water
loss
Presence of guard cells with stomata allow gaseous exchange
Guard cells have chloroplasts to allow for photosynthesis
(Any 3) (6)

3.5.3 Tissue C has closely packed cells so it will not allow for movement of
water
The cells have thickened walls that will not allow water to pass through (4)
[12]

3.6 Xylem vessels Phloem sieve tubes

Conducts water and dissolved mineral Conducts dissolved food
salts
Walls are thickened Walls are thin
Cross walls absent Sieve plates present
Transport is from root to leaves Transport is from leaves to root
 for table +Any 2 (5)
[5]

3.7 White fibrous tissue is firm

Yellow elastic tissue is flexible allowing the ligaments to stretch when the bones
move (4)
[4]

[50]
SUBTOTAL SECTION B: 100 MARKS
PAPER TOTAL: 150 MARKS
LIFE SCIENCES GRADE 10 TERM 4: QUESTION ANALYSIS GRID PAPER 1
COGNITIVE
LEVELS KNOWLEDGE AREA

QUESTION Support
Plant and Support
Chemistry of Plant and
A B C D Cell Cell division Animal Systems
Life organs Transport
Tissue animals
plant
1.1 10 2 4 2 2
1.2 7 2 1 4
1.3 8 10 10 4 4
1.4 6 6
1.5 2 2 5 9
Quest 1 23 12 5 10 18 6 9 0 5 6 6

2.1.1 1 1
2.1.2 3 3
2.1.3 1 1
2.1.4 3 3
2.1.5 2 2
2.2.1 2 2
2.2.2 2 2
2.2.3 2 2
2.2.4 2 2
2.2.5 3 3
2.2.6 1 1
2.2.7 1 1
2.2.8 2 2
2.3.1 2 2
2.3.2 2 2
2.3.3 3 3
2.3.4 1 2 3
2.3.5 3 3
2.4.1 2 2
2.4.2 4 4
2.4.3 2 2
2.4.4 2 2
2.4.5 2 2
1
Quest 2 16 15 4 5 15 13 10 2 0 10 0

3.1.1 2 2
3.1.2 4 4
3.1.3 1 1
3.1.4 2 2
3.1.5 3 3
3.2.1 3 3
3.2.2 2 2
3.3.1 3 3
3.3.2 2 2
3.3.3 2 2
3.4.1 1 1
3.4.2 1 1
3.4.3 3 3
3.5.1 2 2
3.5.2 4 4
3.5.3 2 2
3.5.4 4 4
3.6 5 5
3.7 4 4
1
0 0 0 28 5 5 12
Quest 3 21 11 1 7

Quest 1 23 12 5 10 18 6 9 0 5 6 6
1
Quest 2
16 15 4 5 15 13 10 2 0 10 0
 1
Quest 3
21 11 1 7 0 0 0 28 5 5 12
3
33 19 19 30 10 21 18
Total 60 38 0 22
3
33 19 19 28 9 23 19
Norm 60 38 0 22