Understand exam format and structure
Past papers show the types of questions, mark allocations, and time limits,
helping students know what to expect in the real exam.
Identify frequently tested topics
By reviewing several past papers, students can spot patterns and common
themes that appear regularly.
Practice time management
Completing past papers under timed conditions helps students learn how
to pace themselves during the exam.
Improve exam technique
Students learn how to interpret command words (e.g. explain, compare,
evaluate) and structure answers effectively.
Assess strengths and weaknesses
Marking answers using mark schemes highlights areas that need more
revision.
Build confidence
Familiarity with exam-style questions reduces anxiety and increases
confidence going into the exam.
Improve accuracy and clarity
Repeated practice helps students write clearer, more precise answers and
avoid common mistakes.
Track progress over time
Comparing results from different past papers shows improvement and
helps students adjust revision strategies.
TYRIONPAPERS.COM
, Oxford Cambridge and RSA
Monday 9 June 2025 – Morning
GCSE (9–1) Biology A (Gateway Science)
J247/02 (Foundation Tier)
Time allowed: 1 hour 45 minutes
F
You must have:
* 1 9 1 7 9 1 9 1 7 1 *
• a ruler (cm/mm)
You can use:
• a scientific or graphical calculator
• an HB pencil
* J 2 4 7 0 2 *
Please write clearly in black ink. Do not write in the barcodes.
Centre number Candidate number
First name(s)
Last name
INSTRUCTIONS
• Use black ink. You can use an HB pencil, but only for graphs and diagrams.
• Write your answer to each question in the space provided. If you need extra space use
the lined pages at the end of this booklet. The question numbers must be clearly shown.
• Answer all the questions.
• Where appropriate, your answer should be supported with working. Marks might be
given for using a correct method, even if your answer is wrong.
INFORMATION
• The total mark for this paper is 90.
• The marks for each question are shown in brackets [ ].
• Quality of extended response will be assessed in questions marked with an asterisk (*).
• This document has 32 pages.
ADVICE
• Read each question carefully before you start your answer.
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, 2
Section A
You should spend a maximum of 30 minutes on this section.
Write your answer to each question in the box provided.
1 Which row gives the features of a white blood cell?
Contains haemoglobin Has a nucleus
A 3 3
B 3 7
C 7 3
D 7 7
Your answer [1]
2 A farmer wants to grow strawberry plants that produce strawberries early in the summer.
The farmer chooses the plants that make strawberries the earliest and reproduces only these plants.
What is the name of the process that the farmer is using?
A Gene modification
B Genetic engineering
C Natural selection
D Selective breeding
Your answer [1]
3 Which type of microorganism causes AIDS?
A Bacterium
B Fungus
C Protist
D Virus
Your answer [1]
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, 3
4 What is the function of platelets in blood?
A Carrying oxygen
B Clotting
C Maintaining body temperature
D Producing antibodies
Your answer [1]
5 Who developed a theory about how characteristics are inherited in pea plants?
A Darwin
B Darwin and Wallace
C Mendel
D Mendel and Wallace
Your answer [1]
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