Practise 36 exam-style questions on Cancer for AQA GCSE Biology. Write your answer as you would in the exam and get it marked in seconds against the mark scheme, point by point, with an AI tutor on hand if you get stuck.
36 questions
2–4 marks each
Instant marking
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20 questions, marked as you go
Sample questions with model answers
Here are 4 of the questions in this topic, each with a model answer, an explanation of why it earns the marks and the mark scheme an examiner would use.
Question 1
3 marks
Describe how smoking can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Model answer
Chemicals in tobacco smoke are carcinogens that damage DNA in lung cells. Accumulated DNA damage can cause mutations in genes that control cell division, leading to uncontrolled cell growth (cancer).
Explanation
Carcinogens cause mutations in oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes; when control of cell cycle fails, cells proliferate into tumours in the lungs.
Mark scheme
1 mark
tobacco smoke contains carcinogens / chemicals that damage DNA
1 mark
DNA damage leads to mutations in genes controlling cell division
1 mark
mutations can result in uncontrolled growth / cancer in lung cells
Question 2
3 marks
Explain briefly why secondary tumours are often more serious than the original primary tumour.
Model answer
Secondary tumours (metastases) indicate cancer cells have spread to other organs; multiple tumour sites are harder to treat and can impair functions of vital organs, making prognosis worse.
Explanation
Metastatic disease reflects aggressive cancer biology and often reduces survival because vital organs may be affected and curative local treatment is usually not possible.
Mark scheme
1 mark
secondary tumours show cancer has spread to other organs
1 mark
multiple sites are harder to treat (surgery/radiation) and drug delivery is more complex
1 mark
metastases can impair vital organ function, worsening prognosis
Question 3
3 marks
Why might a doctor recommend genetic counselling for a family with a strong history of a particular cancer?
Model answer
Genetic counselling assesses inherited risk, discusses testing for mutations, explains implications for screening and preventive options, and helps with informed decisions about testing and management.
Explanation
Counselling helps families understand the meaning, options and consequences of genetic test results and cancer risk management strategies.
Mark scheme
1 mark
to assess inherited risk / family history of cancer
1 mark
to offer tests for mutations and explain implications
1 mark
to discuss screening / prevention / informed decision making
Question 4
4 marks
A friend reads that 'eating sugar causes cancer'. Explain how you would evaluate this claim scientifically.
Model answer
Check the evidence: look for peer-reviewed studies, see if studies show correlation or causation; check sample size, controls, and whether confounding factors (obesity, poor diet) were accounted for; rely on systematic reviews and consensus.
Explanation
Scientific claims require critical appraisal: well-designed studies, reproducibility and ruling out confounders are needed before concluding a causal link.
Mark scheme
1 mark
look for peer-reviewed scientific studies / reliable sources
1 mark
distinguish correlation from causation; check if study shows association only
