Tackling 6 Mark Aqa Gcse Biology Questions.

For many students, answering a 6-mark AQA Biology GCSE question can be daunting. With so much information to process, where do you start? The solution might be simpler than you think: the BUG technique.

What is the BUG Technique?

BUG is an acronym that stands for:

B: Box the command word
U: Underline the key information
G: Glance at the information again

By following these three simple steps, you can ensure that your answer remains focused, relevant, and high-scoring.

Demonstrating the BUG Technique in Action

Example 6-mark AQA Biology GCSE Question:

"Describe the processes involved in the digestion of proteins in the human digestive system and the significance of enzymes in this process."

Mark scheme:

• Mention or protease breaking down proteins
• Reference to amino acids as the end product
• Explanation that this happens in the stomach
• Note on acidic environment helping this process
• Emphasis on enzymes speeding up reactions
• Explanation that enzymes are specific to substrates

High Scoring Answer (Using the BUG Technique):

By using the BUG technique, the student identifies "Describe" as the command word and emphasizes the digestion of proteins and the role of enzymes.

"Proteins in the human digestive system are primarily broken down by the enzyme protease. This enzyme ensures that large protein molecules are digested into smaller units called amino acids. The bulk of this protein breakdown happens in the stomach, which provides an acidic environment, facilitating the action of protease. It`s crucial to understand that enzymes, like protease, are vital because they speed up the digestive reactions. Moreover, each enzyme is highly specific, meaning protease will only act on proteins and not on other substrates."

Low Scoring Answer (Without Using the BUG Technique):

Without using the BUG technique, this student recognises the question concerns proteins and digestion but they drift off-topic and don’t include enough relevant content to gain marks.

"Proteins are important nutrients that our body needs for growth and repair. When we eat food, it goes into our stomach. The stomach has acid that helps in digesting food. There are different types of enzymes in our body, and they all have various functions. Carbohydrates are also broken down in our digestive system, and they give us energy. Proteins can be found in foods like meat and beans. It`s important to have a balanced diet."

Conclusion

The difference between the two answers is evident. The BUG technique allows students to hone in on the essential details and produce a concise, relevant, and high-scoring response. So, the next time you`re faced with a challenging 6-mark question, don`t forget to B.U.G your way to success!