Contest 1a

Permanent tissues in plants may be classified on the basis of origin or function.

Mention one permeant tissue on the basis of function.

1. Photosynthetic or assimilatory tissue.

2. Food storing tissue.
3. Conducting or vascular tissue.
4. Secretory tissue
5. Mechanical tissue
6. Protective tissue
……………………………………………………
Contest 1b
1. Which molecules play the key role in the transfer of genetic information
during protein synthesis?
RNA molecules (DNA has all the information which is confined to the
nucleus, it is only transferred with the help of RNA during protein
synthesis.)

2. Which of the RNA molecules convert information stored in the nucleic acid
to protein?
tRNA

3. Which RNA molecule acts as an interface between nucleic acid language

and protein language?
tRNA
………………………………
Contest 2a
1. Which phylum is characterized by the presence of a notochord?
Chordata

2. Name the first group of vertebrates which possessed amniotic egg?

Amphibia

3. Which phylum of organisms has a water vascular system?

Echinodermata
Contest 2b
Describe population of organism with respect to the following
1. Type of competition that occurs among individuals
Intra-specific competition occurs among the individuals of a population

2. Morphology and behaviour of individuals

The individuals in a population are morphologically and behaviorally
similar

3. Number of species that make up a population

A population consists of a single species
…………………………………………………..
Contest 3a

1. Name the tissues which detect changes inside and outside an organism’s
body and respond by action potential.
Nervous tissue

2. Which tissue in mammals cover the surfaces of the body, lines internal
cavities and passageways, and forms certain glands.
Epithelial tissue

3. Name the tissue in mammals the binds the cells and organs of the body
together and functions in the protection, support, and integration of all parts
of the body
Connective tissue
………………………………….
Contest 3b
Mention one of Mendel's laws of inheritance

1. Law of dominance
2. Law of segregation
3. Law of independent assortment
Contest 4a
Classify the following actions as simple reflex or conditioned reflex.
1. Removing one`s hand suddenly when one is pricked by a thorn.
Simple reflex

2. Applying sudden brakes when a dog crosses the path of a driver.

Conditioned reflex

3. Blinking of eyelids on exposure to light.

Simple reflex
………………………………..
Contest 4b
Distinguish between fundamental niche and realized niche with respect the
following
1. Size
The fundamental niche is large in size while the realized niche is small
in size.

2. Competition for resources or predators

There is no competition in a fundamental niche either for resources or
predators while a competition occurs for both resources and predators
in a realized niche.

3. Definition
Fundamental niche refers to a niche of an organism given that there are
no limiting factors on the environment or resources the organism can
use while a realized niche refers to a niche a viable population of a
species occupies in the presence of competitor species
………………………
Contest 5a
Mention the exact locations of the following.
1. Thylakoids
Located in the inner membrane of the chloroplast

2. Lenticels
Located on the older stems of plants in place of stomata

3. Palisade parenchyma
The palisade parenchyma tissue is usually is located on the upper side of
the leaf.
Contest 5b
Mention the glands in humans that produce the following
1. Tears
Lachrymal gland

2. Estrogen
Ovary

3. Growth hormones
Pituitary gland
………………………………………………….
Contest 6a
Sate the type of ecological association that exist between the following organisms
1. The bee and the flower
Mutualistic relationship

2. The nitrogen-fixing bacteria living in the roots of legumes

Mutualistic relationship

3. The ants on stem of acacia plants

Mutualistic relationship
………………………….
Contest 6b
State the effect of the following on the human body
1. Glucagon
Increases blood sugar

2. Tears
Washes dust particles and kills germs

3. Estrogen
Development of female secondary sexual characteristics.
Contest 7a
Distinguish between Monocot stem and dicot stem with respect to the following
1. Number of vascular bundles
Monocot stem contains numerous vascular bundles while dicot stems
contain fewer vascular bindles (4 to 8 vascular bundles)

2. Sclerenchymatous bundle
The monocot stem possesses sclerenchymatous bundle sheath while the
dicot stem lacks sclerenchymatous bundle sheath.

3. Shape of xylem elements

The xylem elements of the monocot stem are circular, while the xylem
elements of the dicot stem are polygonal in shape
……………………………..
Contest 7b
Provide the biological terms for the following descriptions.

1. The photosensitive pigment present in the rod cells of the retina.

Rhodopsin

2. The internal layer of the eye which prevents reflection of light.

Choroid

3. The protective membranes of the mammalian brain

Meninges
…………………………………..
Contest 8a
Distinguish between stolon and rhizome with respect to the following

1. The level of growth in relation to the soil surface

Stolon grows on soil or just below the soil surface while rhizome grows
horizontally or underground.

2. Thickness of length
Stolons are thin and long while rhizomes are thick and short.

3. Rate of growth
Stolons grow faster while rhizomes grow slowly.
……………………………..
Contest 8b
State the main function of the following
1. Coronary artery
Supplies oxygenated blood to the walls of heart.

2. Medulla oblongata
Controls the involuntary activities of the body.

3. Vitreous humour
Jelly like substance giving round shape to eye ball.
…………………………………
Contest 9a
Distinguish between primary consumers and secondary consumers with respect to
the following

1. Type of animals
Primary consumers are herbivores whereas secondary consumers can
be either carnivores or omnivores

2. Source of energy
Primary consumers obtain energy from primary producers, while
secondary consumers obtain energy from primary consumers

3. Amount of biomass
Primary consumers have the higher amount of biomass, than secondary
consumers
Contest 9b
Choose the odd one out from each of the following sets, giving the reason for your
choice
1. AIDS, Diphtheria, Measles. Small pox,
Diphtheria – It is bacterial disease, the others are viral diseases

2. Mitral valve, Sino atrial node, Aorta, Pulmonary vein.

Sinoatrial node – it is located on the right side of the heart, the others
are at the left side of the heart

3. Capsule, Caryopsis, legume, Pineapple

Pineapple – It is a multiple fruit, the rest are simple fruits
……………………………………………..
Contest 10a
Describe ferns with respect to the following
1. Position of sporangia
Sporangia are located, for the most part, on the undersides of ordinary
leaves

2. Type of roots
Roots are simple, uncomplicated (and arise adventitiously along the
rhizomes near the base of the fronds).

3. Indusium
A small leaf outgrowth that covers each sorus
……………………………
Contest 10b
With reference to the light microscopes mention the features to which the
following descriptions refer
1. The size of the smallest object that can be seen with a lens
Resolving power of the lens

2. The range of angles over which the lens can accept or emit light
Numerical aperture

3. The magnification achieved by multiplying the magnification power of the

objective by the magnification power of the ocular lens
Total magnification
Contest 11a
Give the names of the asexual spores produced by the following fungi
1. Rhizopus
Sporangiospore

2. Aspergillus
Conidiospore / Conidia

3. Penicillium
Conidiospore/ Conidia
……………………………………..
Contest 11b
State the benefits obtained by each organism in the following ecological
associations.
1. The bee and flower
The bee obtains nutritional requirements and the flower is pollinated

2. Bacteria in the digestive tract of ruminants

The bacteria help the digestion of food while ruminant provides shelter
for the bacteria.

3. Ants on stems of acacia plants

The ants protect the acacia plant from browsing by animals while the
ants obtain food and shelter from the plant.
…………………………
Contest 12a
The composition of cell walls vary depending on the organism. Mention the
principal components of the cell walls of the following.

1. Coconut
Cellulose.

2. E. coli
Peptidoglycan.

3. Rhizopus
Chitin
Contest 12b
Give the specific function of the following structures
·
1. Centrosome
Initiates cell division in animal cells

2. Corpus luteum
Secretes hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone

3. Eustachian tube.
It equalizes atmospheric pressure and pressure in the ear.
…………………………
Contest 13a
Mention whether mitosis or meiosis is the cell division that occurs during the
following processes in the life cycle of ferns.
1. Production of spores by the sporophyte
Meiosis

2. Growing of spores into photosynthetic prothallus (gametophyte)

Mitosis

3. Production of gametes by the prothallus

Mitosis (Meiosis is not needed because the cells are already haploid.)
………………………………….
Contest 13b
Arrange the following to indicate their logical sequence of occurrence

1. Ear ossicles, oval window, tympanum, auditory canal, cochlea.

Auditory canal, Tympanum, Ear ossicles, oval window, cochlea.

2. Implantation, fertilization, ovulation, gestation.

Ovulation, fertilization, Implantation, gestation

3. Photomorphogenesis, Activation of enzymes, Shoot emerges, Root emerges,

Imbibition of water
Imbibition of water, Activation of enzymes, Root emerges, Shoot
emerges, Photomorphogenesis.
Contest 14a
Give the habitats of the following groups of fungi
1. Zygomycota
Terrestrial / Land

2. Chytridiomycota
Aquatic

3. Basidiomycota
Terrestrial / Land
………………………………..
Contest 14b
State the process or terms to which the following descriptions refer

1. Mild chemical applied on the skin to kill germs

Antiseptic

2. The process by which plants lose water in liquid form

Guttation

3. A pair of chromosomes carrying dissimilar alleles for a particular character.

Heterozygous
………………………………..
Contest 15a
Forests produce large volumes of water into the earth's atmosphere from the leaves
and stems of all vascular plants. Mention one of the three major structures in trees
that aid in forest transpiration

1. Leaf stomata

2. Leaf cuticle

3. Lenticels
Contest 15b
State the biological pathways shown by the following
1. Ovary, Oviduct, Uterus, Cervix, Vagina.
Pathway of egg after ovulation

2. Receptor, Sensory Neuron, Association Neuron, Motor-Neuron, Effector

Pathway of a nerve impulse

3. Cornea, Aqueous humour, Pupil, Lens, Yellow spot

Pathway of entry of light into the eye from an object
……………………………………………………………
Contest 16a
Explain how the cell wall of plants perform the following functions

1. Withstand turgor pressure

Turgor pressure is the force exerted against the cell wall as the contents
of the cell push the plasma membrane against the cell wall. This
pressure helps a plant to remain rigid and erect

2. Regulate growth
The cell wall sends signals for the cell to enter the cell cycle in order to
divide and grow.

3. Regulate diffusion
The cell wall is porous allowing some substances, including proteins, to
pass into the cell while keeping other substances out.
…………………………….
Contest 16b
Mention the specific structures in humans that perform the following functional
activities
1. Balancing the body
Semicircular canals

2. Hold the lens of the eye in position

Suspensory ligaments

3. Spermatogenesis
Seminiferous tubules
Contest 17a
Distinguish between Monocot stem and dicot stem with respect to the following.
1. Pith
The monocot stem does not contain a pith while pith is present in the
dicot stem.

2. Medullary rays
The monocot stem does not contain medullary rays while medullary
rays are present in the dicot stem.

3. Differentiation of the ground tissue

The ground tissue of the monocot stem is not differentiated while the
ground tissue of the dicot stem is differentiated into steler and extra-
steler tissue.
……………………………
Contest 17b
Cellular respiration can be divided into three metabolic processes: glycolysis, the
Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Mention the specific region of the
cell in which each of these occurs.
1. Glycolysis
In the cytosol.

2. The Krebs cycle

In the matrix of the mitochondria.

3. Oxidative phosphorylation via the electon transport chain

Carried out on the inner mitochondrial membrane
……………………………….
Contest 18a
State the type of food reserve in the following types of algae
1. Red algae
Floridean starch,

2. Brown algae
Laminarin

3. Green algae
Starch.
Contest 18b
Humans can sense five basic tastes. Name one each
1. Salty
2. Sweet
3. Sour
4. Bitter
5. Umami (representing chemicals known as amino acids

……………………………………..
Contest 19a
Give the functions of the following structures of the mammalian heart
1. Atrioventricular valves
Prevent backflow of blood into the atria

2. Pulmonary trunk
Brings deoxygenated blood to the lungs

3. Semilunar valves
Prevent backflow of blood into the ventricles
……………………………………………
Contest 19b
Distinguish between heartwood and sapwood with respect to the following.

1. Durability
Heartwood is more durable due to its less susceptibility to the attack of
pathogens and insects but sapwood is less durable because it is
susceptible to attack by pathogens and insects.

2. Function
The function of Heartwood is to provide mechanical support whilst that
sap wood is conduction of water and nutrients and, storage of food.

3. Colour
Heartwood is dark in color due to deposition of various substances,
whilst sapwood is light in colour
Contest 20a
Mention one of the specific floral traits that attract bees to flowers.
1. Presence of nectar
2. Brightly coloured with petals that are usually blue or yellow or a
mixture of these (bees cannot see red)
3. Sweetly aromatic or have a minty fragrance
4. Open in daytime
5. Presence of landing platforms (Nectar guide)
6. Often bilaterally symmetrical (one side of the flower is a mirror image
of the other)
7. Flowers are often tubular with nectar at base of tube
…………………………………..
Contest 20b
Distinguish between sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction with respect to
the following:
1. Type of cell division that occurs
Meiosis is the cell division that occurs in sexual reproduction, whereas
Mitosis is the cell division that occurs in asexual reproduction.

2. Genetic variation
High levels of variation are introduced during the meiosis and
fertilization of sexual reproduction but very low levels of variation can
be introduced during mitosis

3. Population growth rate

Organisms that have sexual reproduction have a slower population
growth rate whereas organisms that have asexual reproduction have a
faster population growth rate.
………………………………..
Contest 21a
Select one of the following stages of meiosis to indicate where the following
events occur. Pachytene, Diakinesis, Diplotene amd Zygotene
1. Synapsis
Zygotene

2. Terminalization of chiasmata
Diploene

3. Disappearance of nucleolus
Diakinesis
Contest 21b
One term in each set is odd and cannot be grouped into the category to which the
other three belong. Identify the odd one in each set and name the category to which
the remaining three belong.
1. Fructose, Sucrose, Glucose, Calcium
Calcium – The rest are all carbohydrates

2. Sneezing, Coughing, Blinking, Sweating

Sweating – The rest are all reflex actions

3. Sclerenchyma Chlorenchyma, Parenchyma,Collenchyma

Sclerenchyma – The rest have primary walls
……………………………..
Contest 22a
One term in each set is odd and cannot be grouped into the category to which the
other three belong. Identify the odd one in each set and name the category to which
the remaining three belong
1. Goitre, Dwarfism, Acromegaly, Scurvy
Scurvy – The rest are all endocrine disorders

2. Golgi body, Ribosome, Rough endoplasmic reticulum, Vacuole

Ribosome – The rest are membrane bound organelles

3. Nose, Mouth, Tongue, and Skin

Mouth – The rest are all sense organs
……………………………
Contest 22b
Determine the following
1. The percentage of thymine in a double stranded DNA molecule if the
amount of cytosine in the molecule is 21.
29 Percent.

2. The percentage of cytosine in a double stranded DNA molecule, if the

amount of adenine in the molecule is 38.
12 percent.

3. The percentage of adenine a double stranded DNA molecule, if the amount

of guanine in the molecule is 14
36 percent.
Contest 23a
State how the following factors affect the speed of conduction of nerve impulse.
1. The presence of a myelin sheath
The myelin sheath insulates the axonal membrane and reduces the
ability of ions to leak out of the axon. This leads to increase in the speed
of electrical impulses in neurons.

2. The diameter of the axon

As the diameter of the axon increases, the conduction speed will be
greater because less current (ions) will leak from the axon

3. Temperature
As temperature increases (to a certain extent), the enzymes that control
the Na+/K+ ATPase will work faster, thus increasing the speed of the
action potentials
……………………………………
Contest 23b
Plastids develop from immature, undifferentiated cells called proplastids.
Proplastids mature into four types of specialized plastids. Name one each.

1. Chloroplasts

2. Chromoplasts

3. Gerontoplasts

4. Leucoplasts.

…………………………………………….
Contest 24a
Mention one of the 7 major functions of plant vacuoles
1. Turgor pressure control: The water-filled central vacuole exerts pressure
on the cell wall to help plant structures remain rigid and erect.
2. Growth: The central vacuole aids in cell elongation by absorbing water and
exerting turgor pressure on the cell wall.
3. Storage: Vacuoles store important minerals, water, nutrients, ions, waste
products, small molecules, enzymes, and plant pigments.
4. Molecule degradation: The internal acidic environment of a vacuole aids in
the degradation of larger molecules sent to the vacuole for destruction.
5. Detoxification: Vacuoles remove potentially toxic substances from the
cytosol, such as excess heavy metals and herbicides.
6. Protection: Some vacuoles store and release chemicals that are poisonous or
taste bad to deter predators from consuming the plant.
7. Seed germination: Vacuoles are a source of nutrients for seeds during
germination.

…………………………………….
Contest 24b

Describe DNA molecule with respect to the following

1. Function
Long-term storage of genetic information / transmission of genetic
information to make other cells and new organisms

2. Composition of Bases and Sugars

Possesses deoxyribose sugar, phosphate backbone and adenine, guanine,
cytosine and thymine bases.

3. Susceptibility to ultraviolet damage

DNA is susceptible to UV damage.

……………………………………………….
Contest 25a
Give one of the main factors that cause a Species to become endangered
1. Destruction/modification/restriction of habitat resulting from human
activity such as agriculture, urban development, mining, deforestation,
and pollution
2. Human exploitation of a species for commercial, recreational, scientific,
educational, or other purposes that results in critically diminished
population numbers
3. Competition and/or displacement by invasive species
4. Disease or predation by other animals to the extent that populations
decline significantly

...……………………………..

Contest 25b

State whether the following are Structural adaptation, Physiological adaptation, or

Behavioural adaptation

1. Migration
Behavioural adaptation

2. Hibernation
Physiological adaptation

3. Mimicry
Structural adaptation
……………………………………………
Contest 26a

Write down the correct biological term for the following descriptions.
1. The type of asexual reproduction in the Kingdom Monera.
Binary fission

2. Highest grouping in a biological classification system.

Kingdom

3. Type of classification system by modifying many of the Latin descriptions

to two words
Binomial nomenclature
Contest 26b
Indicate whether the following substances are actively or passively transported
during reabsorption of glomerular filtration rate

1. Glucose
Actively transported

2. Amino acids
Actively transported

3. Sodium ions (Na+)

Actively transported
………………………………………..
Contest 27a
Distinguish between transpiration and evaporation with respect to the following.

1. Surfaces in which they occur

Transpiration is loss of water from the surface of living cells, whereas
evaporation is the loss of water from free surfaces

2. Type of process
Transpiration is a physiological/ biological process whereas evaporation
is a physical process

3. The rate at which they occur

Comparatively, transpiration is a slower process than evaporation
……………………………………
Contest 27b
Mention one of the main factors that influence primary productivity in ecosystems.
1. Light: The light field varies with depth in the ocean, with time of day,
and with time of year.
2. Temperature: Temperature controls the enzyme-mediated dark-
reaction rates of photosynthesis.
3. Species composition also influence rates of primary production. For
example, the size distribution of the cells and the pigment composition
of the cells can both change with species composition, thus influencing
nutrient uptake and light absorption for photosynthesis.
4. Availability of nutrients and photosynthetic capacity of plant also
influence the primary productivity.
5. Species succession is also a determining factor.
Contest 28a
The following abbreviations are used in the context of excretory functions of the
mammalian kidney. Indicate what they stand for.
1. ADH
Antidiuretic hormone

2. GFR
Glomerular Filtration Rate

3. DCT
Distal Convoluted Tubule
………………….
Contest 28b

Give one of the four main reasons why mitochondria and chloroplast are
considered semi-autonomous organelles.
1. They possess their own nucleic acid (DNA molecule).
2. They can form some of the required protein most of which are
dependent on nuclear DNA and cytoplasmic ribosome.
3. They do not arise de novo (from the beginning).
4. They have membranes similar to those of bacteria.

………………………………….
Contest 28c
Classify the given associations under one of the following types of mutualism .
Obligate Mutualism, Facultative Mutualism, Trophic Mutualism, Defensive
Mutualism or Dispersive Mutualism
1. Cows and the bacteria.
Trophic Mutualism

2. Honeybees and the Plants

Dispersive Mutualism

3. The aphids and the ants.

Defensive Mutualism
Contest 29a
Mention the biological terms to which the following descriptions refer
1. Chemicals involved in the transmission of impulses at synapses
Neurotransmitters

2. Electrical potential difference across the resting neural membrane.

Resting potential

3. Gap between the presynaptic and the post synaptic neurons

Synaptic cleft / Synapse
………………………………………….
Contest 29b
Mention the terms to which the following descriptions refer
1. DNA and protein complex that forms chromosomes.
Chromatin

2. DNA strands containing genes that code for the production of proteins
Chromosomes

3. Single-stranded chromosome resulting from the separation of sister

chromatids.
Daughter Chromosome

……………………………………
Contest 29c
Mention one adaptations of C4 plants that makes them superior to C3 plants.
1. They have a special type of leaf anatomy/ Kranz leaf anatomy. (The
bundle sheath cells may form several layers around the vascular bundles; they are
characterized by having a large number of chloroplasts, thick walls impervious to
gaseous exchange and no intercellular spaces. C4 plants lack photorespiration)
2. They tolerate higher temperatures
3. They show a response to high light intensities.
4. They lack photorespiration.
5. They have greater productivity of biomass.
6. They can photosynthesis in saline and arid regions
7. They can withstand Low CO2 conditions
Contest 30a
State the following laws in genetics
1. Law of dominance:
In a heterozygote, one trait will conceal the presence of another trait for
the same characteristic

2. Law of independent assortment

Genes do not influence each other with regard to sorting of alleles into
gametes; every possible combination of alleles is equally likely to occur

3. Law of segregation
Paired unit factors (i.e., genes) segregate equally into gametes such that
offspring have an equal likelihood of inheriting any combination of
factors
…………………………………..
Contest 30b
Mention one of the major secretions of the pancreas that are helpful in digestion.

1. Trypsinogen
2. Chymotrypsinogen
3. Procarboxypeptidases
4. Amylases
5. Lipases
6. Nucleases
……………………………………..
Contest 30c
Choose the odd one and give reason for your choice

1. (a) Arthritis (b) Osteoporosis (c) Rickets (d) Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a disorder of circulatory system, the rest are disorders of
bone

2. (a) Chromosomes become visible

(b) The nucleolus disappears,
(c) The centrosomes are at opposite poles of the cell.
(d) The mitotic spindle forms,

(c) The centrosomes are at opposite poles of the cell - This occurs at
metaphase, the rest occur at prophase

3. (a) Tricarboxylic acid cycle and urea cycle

(b) Krebs cycle and Calvin cycle
(c) Tricarboxylic acid cycle and citric acid cycle
(d) Citric acid cycle and Calvin cycle

(c) Tricarboxylic acid cycle and citric acid cycle - The two names refer to
one and the same thing
………………………..
Contest 31a
Indicate whether the following organisms go through diploid-dominant life cycle,
haploid-dominant life cycle or alternation of generation
1. Humans
Diploid-dominant

2. Moulds
Haploid-dominant

3. Algae
Haploid-dominant and Alternation of Generation
Contest 31b
Give one reason why there are gaps in the fossil records in biology.
1. Not all fossils have been found yet.
2. Fossilisation is rare, so not all dead organisms fossilize (conditions may
have been wrong for them to fossilize).
3. Many fossils have been destroyed by movements of the Earth’s plates or
by human activities like digging and dam building.
4. Soft-bodied organisms do not usually fossilize, so very few of them are
present in the fossil record
5. Any other relevant fact may be accepted, e.g. people may not recognize
an item as a fossil, so it goes unnoticed.
……………
Contest 31c
Seeds of some plants do not germinate immediately after shedding from the plants
but go through a period of rest known as dormancy. Give one importance of seed
dormancy
1. Perennation: Seed dormancy allows seeds to pass through drought, cold
and other un-favourable conditions.
2. Dispersal: Allows long distance dispersal of seeds.
3. Storage: Prolongs storage
4. Germination under Favourable Conditions: Seeds germinate only when
sufficient water is available to leach out inhibitors and soften the seed coats.
5. Reduces competition among plants
6. Prevents insitu germination / viviparity
7. Allows the embryo ample time to develop

………………………………………………
Contest 32a
State the main advantage of the following features of the endoskeleton to
mammals.
1. They are living:
It is able to grow steadily within the animal enabling some mammals to
reach a large size.

2. Flexible
The endoskeleton is jointed which allows for bendable movement and
support.

3. Structural diversity
 It allows the animals to become successfully adapted to locomotion in the
environment in which they live
Contest 32b
Mention the structures in mammals to which the following descriptions refer.
1. The area of best vision in the mammalian eye as it has maximum number of
cone cells and perceives image in the best manner.
Yellow spot/Macula/ Fovea Centralis

2. It Supplies oxygenated blood to the walls of mammalian heart.

Coronary artery

3. Jelly like substance giving round shape to eye ball.

Vitreous humour
………………………………………
Contest 32c
Distinguish between Pancreas and Spleen with respect to the following
1. Location
The pancreas is located behind the stomach, extending from the
duodenum to the spleen, while the spleen is located left to the stomach in
contact with the tail of the spleen in the left upper part of the abdomen.

2. Shape
While the pancreas is a wing-shaped organ, the spleen is a fist-sized
organ.

3. Color
The pancreas has a salmon color while the spleen has a purple color.
………………………………..
Contest 33a
Mention the excretory organs in the following organisms.
1. Leeches
Nephridia

2. Locust
Malpighian tubules
 3. Liver Fluke
Flame cells
Contest 33b
Endoparasites are found inside the body of their host. Mention one adaptation that
enable them to survive the internal conditions of their host
1. Loss of unnecessary sense organs.
2. Loss of digestive system.
3. High reproductive capacity.
4. Presence of adhesive organs or suckers to cling on to the host.

………………………………….
Contest 33c
Distinguish between egestion and excretion with respect to the following
1. The type of waste materials discharged
The material, discharged in the process of egestion is undigested food
whereas the material, discharged in the process of excretion is metabolic
waste.

2. Cells involvement
The material, discharged in the process of egestion does not pass
through cells but the material, discharged in the process of excretion
passes through cells.

3. Multicellular organisms that carry out the processes

Egestion is carried out only in animals but excretion is carried out in
both plants and animals.

…………………………
Contest 34a
The suffix, (-phyll), refers to leaves or leaf structures. It is derived from the Greek
word phyllon for leaf. State the structures to which the following refer.
1. Epiphyllous (epi - phyll - ous)
Refers to a plant that grows on or is attached to the leaf of another
plant.

2. Megaphyll (mega - phyll)

A type of leaf with many large branched veins, such as those found in
gymnosperms and angiosperms

3. Sporophyll (sporo - phyll )

 A leaf or leaf-like structure that bears plant spores. Sporophylls can be
either microphylls or megaphylls.
Contest 34b
Explain how the following methods can be employed to improve livestock

1. Breeding
Both the male and female animals selected for breeding should be of
superior quality

2. Weeding (Not as in cutting plants)

Uneconomic animals should be prevented from reproducing, so that
that only animals with desired traits reproduce.

3. Feeding
Each animal should be fed on a balance ration, so as to produce
offspring with healthy and desired qualities.
………………………………….
Contest 34c
Name the type of joints that exists at the following joints in mammals
1. Between the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula
Ball and socket

2. Between the humerus and the ulna and radius

Hinge

3. Between first and second vertebrae of the neck

Pivot joint
Contest 35a
State one significance of glycolysis to living organisms
1. It is an almost universal central pathway of glucose catabolism
occurring in the cytoplasm of all the tissues of biological systems leading
to generation of energy in the form of ATP for vital activities
2. It is the pathway through which the largest flux of carbon occurs in
most cells
3. Some plant tissues which are modified for the storage of starch such as
potato tubers and some plants adapted to growth in inundated water
such as water cress derive most of their energy from glycolysis
4. In plants, glycolysis is the key metabolic component of the respiratory
process, which generates energy in the form of ATP in
5. Many types of anaerobic microorganisms are entirely dependent on
glycolysis
6. Mammalian tissues such as renal medulla and brain solely depend on
glycolysis for major sources of metabolic energy
……………………………………
Contest 35b
Mention one of the major factors that influence enzyme-catalyzed reaction.
1. Substrate concentration
2. Enzyme concentration
3. Temperature
4. pH
5. Inhibitors
Contest 35c
Explain the following terms in relation to soil water

1. Capillary water
Water that is held in the soil against the pull of gravity

2. Hygroscopic water
The water that is held so tightly by the soil that it cannot be taken up by
roots of plants

3. Gravitational water
Free water that moves through the soil due to the force of gravity.
…………………………………………………
Contest 36a
Mention the types of placentation that are found in fruits of the following plants
1. Cowpea
Marginal

2. Cucumber
Parietal

3. Sunflower
Basal
……………………………………
Contest 36b
In humans, when there is an increase in environmental temperature, the skin
receptors trigger thermoreceptors of the hypothalamus to increase loss of heat in
the body. Explain what happens in the following situations to ensure heat loss
1. Lowering body hairs
Muscles attached to the hairs relax so they lie flat. This reduces the
depth of fur and the layer of insulation, hence causing heat to escape.

2. Increasing sweat production

The sweat glands increase the production of sweat which evaporates

from the surface of the skin, hence reducing heat from the body.

3. Vasodilation
The muscles in the arteries in the skin relax, allowing more blood to
flow through the capillaries so that heat is lost to the surrounding.
……………………………….
Contest 36c
Give one advantage of Poultry Farming:
1. Food: It provides eggs and meat which are highly nutritious foods. They are
a rich source of animal protein, minerals, right kind of fat and vitamins (A, В
and D) for good health. Unfertilized eggs are called “vegetarian eggs”.
2. Economic Uplift: By selling the eggs and meat of these birds, the farmers
become economically better. Poultry farming provides employment to a
large number of people.
3. Manure: The faecal matter of birds form a rich manure which increases the
fertility of soil. It increases crop yields.
4. Feathers: Feathers of the birds are useful.
5. Recreation: The birds of poultry are also a means of recreation. Coloured
chickens give pleasure look. Cock-fighting is popular in some people
Contest 37a
Mention the types of vegetative propagation in plants to which the following
descriptions refer.

1. It involves the bending of plant branches or stems so that they touch the
ground. The portions of branches or stems in contact with the ground are
then covered with soil.
Layering

2. Plant Cells are taken from different parts of a parent plant and placed in a
sterilized container and nurtured in a special medium until a mass of cells
known as a callus is formed.
Tissue Culture

3. Mature plantlets are cut away from a parent plant and transplanted to a new
area where they sprout new plants.
Suckering
……………………………….

Contest 37b

Re-arrange the following to indicate their logical sequence of occurrence

1. Ear Ossicles, Pinna, Cochlea, Auditory Canal, Tympanum

Pinna→ Auditory Canal→ Tympanum → Ear Ossicles→ Cochlea

2. Collecting ducts → Pelvis → Urethra → Urinary bladder → Ureter

Collecting ducts → Pelvis → Ureter → Urinary bladder → Urethra

3. Pupil, Cornea, Lens, Vitreous humour, Aqueous humour.

Cornea ➔Aqueous humour ➔ Pupil ➔ Lens ➔ Vitreous humour.
Contest 37c
Human activities have impacted the biodiversity and environment in several
crucial ways. Indicate the effect of the following human activities on the
environment.
1. Irrigation
Results in changes to the quality of the soil and underground water. It
also uses up the water supply in the local rivers and lake areas.

2. Mining
Mining results in erosion of soil, contamination of the groundwater and
surface water by chemicals from mining processes. It also results in
deforestation near mining sites. Mining processes are highly toxic and
contamination resulting from mining can affect the health of the
population.

3. Fishing
Use of dynamite for fishing results in destruction of habitats;
Overfishing results in extinction of fish species.
………………
Contest 38a
Phytoremediation refers to the natural ability of certain plants to bioaccumulate,
degrade, or render harmless contaminants in soil, water, or air. Explain the
following terms with respect to phytoremediation
1. Phytohydraulics
The use of deep-rooted plants—usually trees—to contain, or degrade
groundwater contaminants that come into contact with their roots

2. Phytovolatilization
The use of plants to take up volatile compounds through their roots, and
transpire the same compounds, or their metabolites, through the leaves,
thereby releasing them into the atmosphere

3. Phytoaccumulation.
Plants take up contaminants through their roots and store them in the
tissues of stems or leaves. (The contaminants are not necessarily
degraded but are removed from the environment when the plants are
harvested.)
Contest 38b
Re-arrange the following to indicate their logical sequence of occurrence

1. Vagina, Ovary, Uterus, Oviduct, Cervix (pathway of egg after ovulation)

Ovary, Oviduct, Uterus, Cervix, Vagina.

2. Motor Neuron, Receptor, Sensory Neuron, Effector, Association Neuron.

(pathway of a nerve impulse)
Receptor, Sensory Neuron, Association Neuron, Motor-Neuron,
Effector

3. Pupil, Yellow Spot, Cornea, Lens, Aqueous humour (path of entry of light
into the eye from an object)
Cornea, Aqueous humour, Pupil, Lens, Yellow spot.
…………………………………
Contest 38c
Explain the following terms with respect to infectious diseases
1. Epidemic
An epidemic is a disease that affects a large number of people within a
community, population, or region.
An epidemic is an unexpected increase in the number of disease cases in
a specific geographical area.

2. Endemic
An infectious disease is endemic when it’s always is prevalent in or
restricted to a particular location, region, or population.

3. Pandemic
A pandemic is an epidemic occurring worldwide, or over a very wide
area, crossing international boundaries and usually affecting a large
number of people.
Contest 39a
Seed priming is used by seed producers and growers to control germination. It is
mainly used to shorten germination time. State one benefit of seed priming
1. Faster speed of emergence
2. Enables seed to germinate and emerge even under adverse agro-climatic
conditions
3. Improves uniformity to optimize harvesting efficiency
4. Increases vigour for fast and healthy plant development
5. Increases yield potential

……………..
Contest 39b
1. Mention two of the three main characteristics of sound that enable the
human ear differentiate between sounds that reach it.
The human ear differentiates between the sounds that reach it through
the sound pitch, the sound intensity and the sound quality.

2. Which structures of the inner ear are responsible for gravitational

equilibrium?
The utricle and saccule are responsible for gravitational equilibrium.
(The utricle and saccule are within the vestibule so don’t accept vestibule)

3. Which structures of the inner ear are responsible for rotational equilibrium?
Semicircular canals are responsible for rotational equilibrium
Contest 39c
An invasive species is an introduced, nonnative organism (disease, parasite, plant,
or animal) that begins to spread or expand its range from the site of its original
introduction and that has the potential to cause harm to the environment, the
economy, or to human health.

Mention one of the common traits invasive of species

1. Fast growth
2. Rapid reproduction
3. High dispersal ability
4. Phenotype plasticity (the ability to alter growth form to suit current
conditions)
5. Tolerance of a wide range of environmental conditions (Ecological
competence)
6. Ability to live on a wide range of food types (generalist)
7. Association with humans
8. Prior successful invasions
………………………………………….
Contest 40a

Provide suitable explanations for the following:

1. Why should wilted leaves of lettuce become crispy/firm when placed in cold
water for a while?
Wilted lettuce leaves when placed in cold water for a while absorb water
through endosmosis, the cells of leaves became turgid and thus become
crispy/firm.

2. Why do the leaves of some plants roll up on a bright sunny day?

The rate of transpiration is high on bright sunny gays. As a result, the
plants roll up their leaves so as to reduce the exposed surface area to the
sun and thus the rate of transpiration./ as well as the stomata get covered and
water loss through stomata can be reduced.

3. With regard to respiration, why is it not advisable for people to sleep under
trees at night?
During the night photosynthesis stops and respiration continues. This
means that little or no oxygen is produced by the plants at night. The
 concentration of CO2 increases at the plant's surrounding atmosphere,
which can cause breathing problems or even suffocation

Contest 40b
Give the features of saliva that allows it to perform the following functions.
1. It serves as a buffer.
Saliva has a high concentration of bicarbonate ions that allows it to act as
physiological buffer

2. It helps in mineralization of the teeth

Saliva contains high concentration of calcium and phosphate, which
helps in mineralization of teeth.

3. It aids swallowing
Saliva moistens dry food and cools hot food and make easy for
swallowing and digestion

……………………………………
Contest 40c
State the effect(s) of each of the following on biodiversity (the variability among
living organisms from all source.

1. Habitat loss
Habitat loss will decrease biodiversity. When this occurs only the
animals that are able to adapt and live within the new habitat will
survive. This could potentially cause a genetic bottleneck for those that
were once thriving in the initial habitat.

2. Overharvesting
Overharvesting can limit biodiversity. If too much of a species (whether
plants or animals) is harvested for human use, then there is the
potential that certain genes from the pool are completely wiped out.
This means that they will be very hard to re-introduce into the
population, and the biodiversity lessens.

3. Exotic species
Exotic species are a threat to biodiversity. This is because it will add a
new element to the food chain. Perhaps the exotic species is a predator
and will kill off some other organisms therefore shrinking biodiversity
in an area. The exotic species could also be an invasive plant that takes
root space away from other species, therefore threatening biodiversity.