Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

CAPE WINELANDS EDUCATION

DISTRICT

LIFE SCIENCES PAPER 1

Survival Kit

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Grade 12 Learner

It is important for YOU to be successful in the NSC examination at the end of 2022, and to
achieve this, it will take extra effort and work from YOU. We have taken time to prepare this kit to
enable YOU to achieve this goal in Life Sciences.

This document has been prepared as study material for the Final Examinations for Grade
12 Life Sciences.
The materials have been arranged in such a way that studying can be undertaken topic-wise.
Within each topic, core notes have been included according to the 2021 Examination Guideline
Document.
Questions were selected such that the core concepts and core skills are assessed and practiced.
The action words have been underlined in the questions, so that you can follow the
instructions of the question.

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

HUMAN REPRODUCTION – PAPER 1, 41 marks

It is important that you can label and provide functions of the different parts of the male and
female reproductive systems.

MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM:

The figure below shows the different parts of the male reproductive system and their functions.

A possible question in the NSC exams:

Describe the process of SPERMATOGENESIS – (the formation of male gametes, sperm cells)

• Under the influence of testosterone

• diploid cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes undergo meiosis
• to form haploid sperm cells

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

It is very important that you can draw the structure of a sperm cell/ provide labels and
functions of the parts

Female reproductive system:

Know the parts and functions of the following parts:

Be able to describe oogenesis as follows:

Oogenesis: the formation of female gametes - ovum

• Diploid cells in the ovary undergo mitosis

• To form numerous follicles
• At the onset of puberty
• Under the influence of FSH
• One cell inside a follicle enlarges and undergoes meiosis
• Of the four cells produced, only ONE survives to form a mature, haploid ovum
• This occurs in a monthly cycle

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Be able to draw the structure of an ovum and provide labels (jelly layer, haploid nucleus,
cytoplasm)

Structure of the ovum:

Cross section of the ovary indicating the development of the follicles

Process
of

You must know the names and functions of the following hormones that play a role in
the menstrual cycle:

Hormone Gland/structure that Function

secretes hormone
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating- hypophysis/ pituitary gland Stimulates the development
Hormone) of the primary follicle into a
mature Graafian follicle
LH hypophysis/ pituitary gland Stimulates the release of the
ovum (ovulation)
Formation of the corpus
luteum
oestrogen Graafian follicle Starts the thickening of the
endometrium (lining of the
uterus)
progesterone Corpus luteum Thickens the endometrium
even further, preparation
should fertilization occur

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

A. Events in the ovarian cycle:

1. Development of Graafian follicle

2. Ovulation
3. Formation of corpus luteum

Development of Graafian follicle Formation of corpus luteum

B. Events in the uterine cycle:

• Changes that take place in the thickness of the endometrium
• Menstruation

Uterine cycle:
1. Oestrogen is responsible for the thickening of the endometrium
2. Progesterone thickens the endometrium even more

Menstruation:
- The blood vessel rich endometrium breaks down, and is bleeding occurs through the
vagina.

Progesterone levels will decrease if fertilization does NOT occur, menstruation will occur.

If fertilization DOES occur, progesterone levels will remain high, endometrium will remain
intact (will not break down) and no menstruation will occur.

Negative feedback between progesterone and FSH:

If progesterone levels remain high, the hormone FSH will not be secreted as no follicle
will develop while the woman is pregnant.

If progesterone levels decrease, FSH will be secreted, and new follicles will develop.

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Process of fertilization:
The sperm cell(n) and the ovum(n) fuse to form a fertilized egg cell, a zygote(2n)

Also know: Development of the zygote to embryo:

• Zygote undergoes mitosis

• to form a ball of cells
• called a morula
• Which continues to divide by
mitosis to
• form a hollow balls of cells
• called a blastocyst

QUESTIONS - HUMAN REPRODUCTION

1. The diagram below represents a part of the male reproductive system.

1.1 Give the LETTER and the NAME of
the part that:
(a) Is used in copulation (2)
(b) Produces testosterone (2)

1.2 Give ONLY the LETTERS of the

TWO parts in the diagram that:
(a) Contribute to the formation of
semen (2)
(b) Provide a passage for the
sperm cells (2)

Answer:
1.1 (a) A ; penis (2)
(b) E; testes (2)

2.2 (a) D (prostate) ; F (seminal vesicle) (2)

(b) C (sperm duct/vas deferens); B; (urethra) (2)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

2. The structure below represents a part of the female reproductive system.

2.1 Identify part D. (1)
2.2 State ONE function of part A. (1)
2.3 Describe the process of oogenesis
as it occurs in part B. (4)
2.4 State ONE way in which structure C is
suited for its function during pregnancy.
(1)
2.5 A person undergoes a surgical
operation to remove part B on both sides.
Explain why this person will not menstruate.
(3)

Answer:
2.1 cervix (1)
2.2 site of fertilization
passage for egg cells (1)
2.3 Diploid cells (2n) in the ovary undergo mitosis
to form numerous follicles.
At the onset of puberty
and under the influence of FSH,
one cell inside a follicle enlarges and undergoes meiosis.
Of the four cells that are produced, only one survives to form a mature,
haploid (n)ovum.
This occurs in a monthly cycle. (3)
2.4 Muscular – can enlarge to house and protect the developing foetus/
contractions during childbirth (1)

2.5 The ovaries have been removed

No Graafian follicles can develop
No oestrogen will be secreted
endometrium will not thicken,
no thickening, no menstruation (3)

3.Draw a labelled diagram to show the structure of a sperm cell (4)

and an ovum. (4)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Answer:
Remember to always give the diagram a heading, you will be awarded a mark for it
SPERM CELL (4) OVUM (4)

4. The diagrams below show structures formed during human reproduction.

4.1 Identify part A. (1)

4.2 Name the organelle found in large numbers in part C. (1)
4.3 Give the NUMBER (1, 2, 3 or 4) only of the diagram that represents the
following:
(a) Morula (1)
(b) Structure that will implant in the uterus (1)
(c) Blastula/Blastocyst (1)
4.4 Give the LETTER and NAME of the part that will enter the ovum
during fertilisation. (2)
4.5 Name the type of cell division that occurred to produce the structure
in diagram 3. (1)

Answer:
4.1 acrosome (1)
4.2 mitochondria (1)
4.3 (a) 3 (1)
(b) 1 (1)
(c) 1 (1)
4.4 B – haploid nucleus (2)

4.5 mitosis (1)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

5. The diagram below shows a human sperm and ovum. The diagram is not drawn to
scale.

5.1 Tabulate ONE difference between the structure of an ovum and a sperm cell. (3)

5.2 The head of the sperm contains a protein digesting enzyme. Explain the
Importance of this enzyme during fertilisation. (2)

5.3 An active healthy sperm cell is able to swim about 4 mm per minute. If the distance
from the cervix to the end of the Fallopian tube is 20 cm, how long will it take for
the sperm cell to reach the ovum at the end of the Fallopian tube?
Show your working. (3)

5.4 Semen has a pH of 7.5. Sperm cells have a high mortality rate in acidic conditions.
How does the male body ensure that the sperm cells are not killed by acidic urine
as they travel through the urethra? (2)

5.1 Answer:
If you are asked to tabulate an answer, always draw the table, you will be awarded one
mark for the table.

Ovum Sperm cell

No tail Contains a tail for transport
No mitochondria Mid-piece contains many mitochondria
(3)

5.2 - the digesting enzymes are responsible to break down the cell membrane of the
ovum
- to allow the haploid nucleus of the sperm cell to enter the ovum (2)

5.3 20 cm = 200 mm ✓
200 mm
4 mm ✓
= 50 minutes ✓ (3)

5.4 the prostate gland secretes an alkaline substance

that neutralises the acidic environment of the urethra (2)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

6. Study the human male reproductive system below and answer the questions.
6.1 Identify part:
(a) B
(b) H (2)
6.2 What is the function of E? (2)
6.3 Discuss TWO structural adaptations of
the sperm cells to reach the ovum in the
Fallopian tube of the female. (4)
6.4 Test results show that a man has a low
sperm count. The doctor advises the man that
when he is working on his laptop (computer),
which radiates heat, that he should not put the
laptop on his lap.
Why do you think this could have an influence
on fertility? (3)

Answer:
6.1 (a) B seminal vesicle (1)
(b) H testes (1)
6.2 transport semen with sperm cells / transport urine (2)
6.3 Tail – to swim
Mitochondria (in mid-piece) – for energy to swim (4)
6.4 Optimal sperm production occurs at 2-3 0 lower than body temperature
The warm laptop will increase the temperature of the testes
and sperm production will decrease/not be optimal
decrease in fertility (3)

7. Study the diagram below of the sequence of events that takes place from the fertilisation
of the ovum to the development of the embryo in a part of the human female reproductive
system.
The arrows indicate the direction of development of one ovum after fertilisation.
7.1 Identify:
(a) Structure C
(b) The stage of embryo development at E
(c) The structure that develops from a
combination of parts F and H (3)
7.2 Name the process that takes place:
(a) At B
(b) When G attaches to part F (2)
7.3 Give the chromosome number of:
(a) The cells at D
(b) Cell A (2)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Answer:
7.1 (a) zygote (fertilized egg cell)
(b) morula (ball of cells)
(c) placenta (3)
7.2 (a) fertilization
(b) implantation (2)
7.3 (a) 46
(b) 23 (2)

RESPONDING TO THE ENVIRONMENT (HUMANS)

PAPER 1, 54 marks
Human Nervous System
The importance/need for a nervous system in humans:
● To respond to internal and external change
● Co-ordinate the various activities of the body

Know the difference between a stimulus and an impulse:

STIMULUS – any change in the environment (eg. a loud noise, a flashing light)
IMPULSE – a message carried/transmitted by nerves

Central Nervous System

Consists of Brain and Spinal Cord
Know the following parts and functions of the brain:
1.Brain:

Functions of the spinal cord: Spinal cord

·Provides a pathway for nerve impulses to and from the brain
·The spinal cord serves as a centre for reflex actions

PROTECTION OF THE Central Nervous System

The brain is enclosed by the skull and the spinal cord by the vertebral column
Both the brain and spinal cord are enclosed by the 3 membranes, called the meninges

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Our nerves are made up of millions of small neurons

You must be able to draw and label a simple of a neuron, using the following labels: nucleus,
cell body, cytoplasm, myelin sheath, axons and dendrites

Heading - A motor neuron:

cytoplasm
Direction of impulse: from DENDRITES to AXONS

Different types of neurons:

Sensory neurons – transmit impulses
interneuron
from the RECEPTORS to the Central
Nervous System

Interneurons – link sensory neurons

to motor neurons

Motor neurons – transmit impulses

from the Central Nervous System to
the effectors

Know the difference between a receptor and an effector:

•RECEPTOR: special cells that become aware of the STIMULUS (the change)
and convert it into an IMPULSE (message carried by nerves)

•EFFECTOR: an organ or cell that acts in response to a stimulus (REACTS)

Eg. muscles or glands

interneuron

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Know the difference between: A Reflex Action and a Reflex Arc.

•Reflex action – a quick, automatic movement/action by an effector, in response to a stimulus

received by a receptor (eg. quickly pulling your hand away from a hot stove)
•Reflex arc – pathway along which nerve impulses are carried from a receptor to an effector to
bring about a reflex action.

Structure and labels of a Reflex Arc:

synapse

Reflex arc: pathway is from- 1 receptor 2 sensory neuron 3 interneuron

4 motor neuron 5 effector

The significance (importance) of a reflex action:

Reflex actions protect the body from dangerous situations, protects us from serious injury

The significance (importance) of a synapse:

To ensure that impulses travel in one direction only (from dendrites to axons)

Causes and symptoms of disorders:

•Alzheimers Degeneration of brain cells that destroys
memory and thinking skills

•Multiple sclerosis Myelin sheath of neurons/nerve cells are

damaged, making it difficult for impulses to
be transmitted, impulses slower

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.1 The diagram below represents a human brain.

Give the LETTER and NAME of the part
of the brain responsible for:

1.1.1 Memorising a cell phone number

(2)
1.1.2 Coordinating all voluntary
movements (2)
1.1.3 Secretion of hormones (2)
1.1.4 Connection of two hemispheres of
part B (2)
1.1.5 The reflex action that occurs when
stepping barefooted on a sharp object.
(2)
Answer:
1.1.1 B – Cerebrum
1.1.2 D – Cerebellum
1.1.3 A - Pituitary gland/ Hypophysis
1.1.4 C - Corpus callosum
1.1.5 E – Spinal cord

1.1 The diagram below represents the structure of a neuron.

1.2.1 Name the type of neuron in the
diagram above. (1)
1.2.2 Identify part:
(a) B
(b) F
(c) A (3)
1.2.3 Give the LETTER and NAME of the
part that:
(a) Transmits impulses away from the cell
body (2)
(b) Insulates and speeds up the
transmission of impulses (2)
1.2.4 Name the condition caused by the
progressive degradation of part D.
(1)
Answer:
1.2.1 Motor neuron (1)
1.2.2 (a) B Nucleus /nuclear membrane (1)
(b) F Cytoplasm (1)
(c) A Dendrite (1)
1.2.3 (a) C- Axon (2)
(b) D- Myelin sheath (2)
1.2.4 Multiple sclerosis (1)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.3 Study the diagram of a reflex arc below.

1.3.1 What is a reflex action? (2)
1.3.2 Label the following:
(a) the functional connection at D (1)
(b) neuron B (1)
1.3.3 State the significance of the functional
connection at D. (1)
1.3.4 Write down, in the correct order, the
LETTERS ONLY of the neurons involved
from the time a stimulus is received until a
response takes place. (2)
1.3.5 Explain the consequences for a reflex
action if neuron C is damaged. (2)
1.3.6 Draw a labelled diagram to represent the
structure of neuron A (5)
Answer:
1.3.1 A reflex action is a quick, automatic response to a stimulus (2)
1.3.2 (a) Synapse (1)
(b) Interneuron (1)
1.3.3 It ensures that the impulse moves in one direction only
It ensures that the impulse is transmitted from the sensory neuron to the
motor neuron (1)
1.3.4 A → B → C (2)
1.3.5 The person will be able to receive a stimulus
but will not be able to respond to it (2)
1.3.6

Heading: 1 mark
Correct type of neuron drawn: 1 mark
Any 3 correct labels: 3 marks (5)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Human EYE:
Know the structure and functions of the human eye, using a diagram

Function of the iris:

to control the
amount of light
that enters the eye

Know the difference between EYE ACCOMODATION and PUPILLARY MECHANISM

Eye Accomodation: is the adjustment/change of the SHAPE OF THE LENS to see clearly,
whether objects are far away or close by.
*Compare the SHAPE OF THE LENS in these two diagrams below:

DISTANT VISION (objects further than 6m) NEAR VISION (objects closer than 6 m)

Shape of the lens is flatter Shape of the lens is rounder

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Be able to describe eye accomodation for distant vision and near vision:

Distant vision Near vision

1. Ciliary muscles relax 1. Ciliary muscles contract
2. Suspensory ligaments tighten(become stiff/taut) 2. Suspensory ligaments slacken
3.Tension on the lens increases 3. Tension on the lens decreases
4. Lens becomes flatter (less convex) 4. Lens becomes more rounded (more convex)
5. Light rays are bent less 5. Light rays are bent more
6. Light rays are focuses onto the retina 6. Light rays are focused onto the retina

PUPILLARY MECHANISM: is dependant on the AMOUNT OF LIGHT that is available.

Pupil becomes SMALLER (constricts) Pupil becomes BIGGER (widens)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Visual defects:

Questions: The eye

1.1 The diagram below represents a section through a human eye.
1.1.1 Identify
(a) A (1)
(b) B (1)
(c) C (1)
1.1.2 Give the LETTER and NAME of the
part that:
(a) Regulates the amount of light entering the
eye (2)
(b) Contains a dark pigment that absorbs
excess light in the eye (2)
(c) Contains receptors sensitive to light (2)
(d) Assists in the refraction of light rays (2)
(e) Changes shape for near and distant (far)
vision (2)

Answer:
1.1.1 (a) A: Sclera (1)
(b) B: Cornea (1)
(c) C: Pupil (1)

1.1.2 (a) D – iris

(b) G – choroid

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

(c) E – retina
(d) B – cornea
(e) F – lens (10)

1.2 The diagram shows two eyes (X and Y) focused on objects (represented by arrows) at
different distances from the eye. Objects A and C were 2 metres away from the eye. Objects
B and D were 7 metres away from the eye.
1.2.1 Write down the LETTER ONLY of the
object that:
(a) Eye X is focused on (1)
(b) Eye Y is focused on (1)

1.2.2 Name and describe the process that

allows eye Y to form a clear image on the
retina. (6)

1.2.3 Describe the process that allows to

form a clear image on the retina when a
Cape cobra is 9 meters from a person. (5)

Answer:
1.2.1 (a) B
(b) C
1.2.2 Accommodation (* compulsory mark)
Ciliary muscles contract
Suspensory ligaments slacken
Tension on lens decreases
Lens becomes more convex (more rounded)
Light rays are refracted (bent) more
Light rays are focused onto the retina (6)

1.2.3 Ciliary muscles relax

Suspensory ligaments tighten (become taut)
Tension on lens increases
Lens becomes less convex flatter
Light rays are refracted (bent) less
Light rays are focused onto the retina (5)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.3 The table below indicates the changes in diameter of the pupil of the
human eye
Changes in pupil diameter over time:
Time in (s) Diameter of pupil in (mm)
5 6 mm
10 6 mm
15 6 mm
20 6 mm
25 4 mm
30 2 mm
35 3 mm
40 3,5 mm
45 4 mm
50 4 mm
55 4 mm
60 4 mm
1.3.1 Which structure in the human eye is responsible for the changes indicated
in the graph? (1)
1.3.2 During which period of time was the person moving from dim light to
bright light? (1)
1.3.3 Describe the changes that took place in the eye that led to the diameter
change indicated from 30 to 35 seconds. (3)
1.3.4 Draw a labelled diagram of the front view of the eye to illustrate pupillary
mechanism when the light intensity is very high. (4)
(9)
Answer:
1.3.1 iris
1.3.2 (20 – 30) s
1.3.3 Radial muscles contract
Circular muscles relax
Pupil increases in diameter /dilates
1.3.4

Heading 1 mark
*Pupil constricted 1 mark
Any 2 correct labels

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.4 The diagram below illustrates how light refracted in the human eye leads to a visual defect.
1.4.1 Identify part:
(a) B
(b) C (2)
1.4.2 Name the visual defect that is
illustrated in the diagram. (1)
1.4.3 Describe the consequences of the
visual defect in your answer to
QUESTION 1.4.2. (2)
1.4.4 Explain the consequences if the
light rays were to fall on part A. (3)
1.4.5 Explain TWO ways in which the
lens is structurally suited to perform its
function. (4)
Answer:
1.4.1 (a) B: Lens
(1)
(b) C: Choroid (1)
1.4.2 Long-sightedness (1)
1.4.3 Cannot see nearby objects clearly
causing the image to be blurred (2)
1.4.4 No image will be formed /cannot see the object
No receptors present
Light will not be converted into an impulse (3)
1.4.5 Lens is elastic
therefore can change shape /convexity/allow for accommodation
Lens is transparent
to allow light rays to pass through
Lens is biconcave
to refract/bend light rays (any 2 x 2) (4)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

The HUMAN EAR

The EAR houses receptors that are sensitive for hearing, but also plays an important
role in the maintenance of balance in our bodies
Know the parts and functions of the EAR

How hearing takes place:

Sound waves vibrations pressure waves

Describe the pathway of sound waves until you hear:

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

HEARING:
Sound waves are caught by the pinna
And directed into the external auditory canal
Sound waves hit against the tympanum(eardrum) and it starts to vibrate
Vibrations are carried by the 3 bony ossicles to the oval window
Oval window also vibrates
The vibrations of the oval window cause the fluid in the inner to move, causing pressure
waves
Pressure waves (movement of the fluid) in the inner ear stimulates the receptors (hair cells in
the Organ of Corti) in the cochlea
Receptors become aware of the stimulus and convert it into an impulse
The impulse is transmitted by the auditory nerve to the CEREBRUM, where hearing is
interpreted.

BALANCE:

Describe the functioning of the human ear in BALANCE:

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Questions: HUMAN EAR

1.1 The diagram below represents the human ear.
1.1.1 Give the LETTER and NAME of the
part that:
(a) Transmits impulses to the brain (2)
(b) Allows pressure to equalise between the
outer ear and the middle ear (2)
(c) A pressure wave in a liquid (2)
(d) Releases pressure from the inner ear
(2)
1.1.2 Give only the LETTER of TWO
structures in the diagram of the ear that,
when damaged, would result in the
following:
(a) when sound vibrations cannot be
conducted through the outer and middle ear
(2)
(b) sound waves in the inner ear are not
converted into nerve impulses (2)
1.1.3 Middle ear infection loorontsteking is
a common cause for loss of hearing.
Name ONE way which middle ear infection
can be treated (1)
Answer:
1.1.1
(a) F – auditory nerve
(b) G – eustachian tube
(c) E - cochlea
(d) H – round window
1.1.2 (a) B ; C
(b) E ; F
1.1.3 grommets or antibiotics

1.2 The diagram below represents the middle ear of humans.

1.2.1 Identify part:
(a) A (1)
(b) B (1)
(c) C (1)
1.2.2 Explain the result if part E is blocked. (4)
1.2.3 Describe how the parts of the middle ear,
including the membranes, assist with
amplifying sounds. (3)
1.2.4 Explain why fusion of the ossicles may lead
to hearing loss. (2)
Answer:
1.2.1 (a) A Tympanic membrane
(b) B Incus /Anvil
(c) C Oval window
(d) D Round window
1.2.2 Air will not be taken in /released

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

to equalise pressure
on both sides of the tympanic membrane
Tympanic membrane/ ossicles may not vibrate freely
This may lead to the tympanic membrane bursting and
therefore could lead to hearing loss /deafness/ pain (4)
1.2.3 The sound vibrations are transmitted from the large tympanic membrane
to the smaller oval window
through the ossicles
which are arranged from largest to smallest
This concentrates the vibrations, amplifying them (3)
1.2.4 The ossicles will not be able to vibrate
and hence no vibrations will be passed to the inner ear /cochlea will not be
stimulated/no amplification (2)

1.3 The diagram below represents a part of a human ear.

1.3.1 Identify part:
(a) C
(b) D (2)
1.3.2 Name the receptors that are found in
part B. (1)
1.3.3 Describe how part B, the semi-circular
canals, plays a role in maintaining
maintaining balance when the body changes
speed and direction. (6)
1.3.4 Describe how balance and
equilibrium is maintained by the ear when a
person changes his/her position of the head.
(6)
1.3.5 A goalkeeper in a soccer match
prevented a goal from being scored when he
dived to his right after the ball was kicked
towards him.
Describe how he maintained his balance as
he dived to save the ball. (6)
Answer:
1.3.1 (a) C: Auditory nerve
(b) D: Cochlea (1)
1.3.2 Cristae (1)
1.3.3 A change in speed/direction of movement
stimulates the cristae
The stimulus is converted to an impulse
The impulse is transmitted to the cerebellum
via the auditory nerve
The cerebellum sends impulses to the muscles to restore balance (6)
1.3.4 A change in the position of the head
stimulates the maculae
The stimulus is converted to an impulse
The impulse is transmitted to the cerebellum
via the auditory nerve
The cerebellum sends impulses to the muscles to restore balance (6)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.3.5 A change in the direction and speed of the body

causes the movement of fluid in the semicircular canals
which stimulates the cristae

A change in the position of the head

stimulated the maculae
The stimuli were converted into impulses
which were transported along the auditory nerve
and interpreted in the cerebellum
which then sent impulses to the muscles
to restore balance and equilibrium

1.4 Describe how the different parts of the ear and brain allow for hearing to occur. (7)

The sound waves were directed by the pinna

through the auditory canal
to the tympanic membrane /eardrum
causing it to vibrate
The vibrations of the tympanic membrane were transferred to the ossicles
in the middle ear
which eventually caused the oval window to vibrate
This set up pressure waves in the cochlea
This stimulated the Organ of Corti in the cochlea
to convert this stimulus into a nerve impulse
which was then transmitted along the auditory nerve
and interpreted in the cerebrum

ENDOCRINE SYSTEM AND HOMEOSTASIS – PAPER 1, 34 marks

Know the difference between an endocrine gland and an exocrine gland
Endocrine glands: ductless glands that Exocrine glands – glands that release their
release their secretions (hormones) secretions through ducts to a body cavity
directly into the bloodstream. or to the outside
eg. Ovaries, adrenal glands, pancreas , eg. salivary glands that secrete saliva
hypophysis through ducts that open in the mouth cavity

Hormones are chemical messengers.

Hormones can stimulate (increase the secretion of hormones, allow a reaction to occur)
or inhibit (slow down the secretion or stop the secretion) for a reaction

Location of the following glands, the hormones they secrete:

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

Hypothalamus – ADH (controls water

concentration in blood)
Pituitary gland/hypophysis – Growth
hormone, TSH, FSH, LH and prolactin
Thyroid gland – thyroxin
Pancreas – insulin and glucagon
Adrenal gland – adrenalin, aldosterone
Ovary – oestrogen, progesterone
Testes - testosterone

Homeostasis: the process of maintaining a constant, internal environment

Negative feedback mechanism: operate in the human body to detect changes or

imbalances in the internal environment and to restore the balance
You should know and describe the negative feedback mechanism involving:

Thyroxin levels
Blood glucose levels (pancreas secreting insulin and glucagon)
Blood carbon dioxide levels
Water balance (osmoregulation)
Salt levels
Thyroxin and TSH – negative feedback
Imbalance could be:
Thyroxin levels are TOO HIGH: Thyroxin levels are TOO LOW:
-Pituitary gland/hypophysis is stimulated -Pituitary gland/hypophysis is stimulated
-To secrete LESS TSH -To secrete MORE TSH
-Low TSH levels stimulates the thyroid -High TSH levels stimulates the thyroid
gland gland
-To secrete LESS thyroxin -To secrete MORE thyroxin
-Thyroxin levels DECREASE -Thyroxin levels INCREASE
-Back to normal -Back to normal

Blood glucose levels

Glucose levels in the blood are TOO Glucose levels in the blood are TOO LOW:
HIGH:
Pancreas is stimulated Pancreas is stimulated
To secrete INSULIN into the blood To secrete GLUCAGON into the blood
Insulin stimulates the conversion of Glucagon stimulates the conversion of
excess glucose to glycogen which is stored glycogen back to glucose
Glucose level in the blood decreases Glucose level in the blood INCREASES
Back to normal Back to normal
Have a careful look at these three terms: It is important that you do not confuse these
terms with one another, and you have to spell them correctly or you will lose marks.
Glucose Simplest sugar in the blood
Glycogen Glucose is converted to glycogen and is stored in this form
Glucagon The hormone that is secreted by the pancrea is blood sugar levels are too low

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

You only need to know how our body reacts

when CO2 levels are too high:

Regulation of water balance (osmoregulation):

When blood has LESS water than normal: When blood has MORE water than normal:
Hypothalamus is stimulated Hypothalamus is stimulated
Send impulses to the pituitary gland Send impulses to the pituitary gland
To secrete MORE ADH To secrete LESS ADH
ADH increases the permeability of the ADH decreases the permeability of the
renal tubules renal tubules
MORE water is re-absorbed back into the LESS water is re-absorbed back into the
blood blood
Water level in blood returns to normal Water level in blood returns to normal

The regulation of salt balance:

Salt levels in the blood TOO HIGH: Salt levels in the blood TOO LOW:
Adrenal gland is stimulated Adrenal gland is stimulated
To stop secreting aldosterone/less To secrete MORE aldosterone
aldosterone
LESS salt is reabsorbed into the blood MORE salt is reabsorbed into the blood
Salt level decreases Salt level increases
Back to normal Back to normal

Disorders caused by imbalance in the levels of:

Imbalance of: Name of disorder
Thyroxin Goitre (low levels of iodine)
Blood glucose Diabetes mellitus

Thermoregulation
The role of: sweating
vasodilation
vasoconstriction

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

6
6
1
1

2 5 2
5

3 3

4 4

QUESTIONS: ENDOCRINE SYSTEM AND HOMEOSTASIS

1.1 The diagram below represents parts of the endocrine system in humans.
1.1.1 Identify gland:
(a) A
(b) B
(c) C (3)
1.1.2 Give the LETTER and the
NAME of the gland that secretes a
hormoneresponsible for:
(a) Starting puberty in males
(b) Stimulating absorption of glucose by
cells
(c) Making the kidney tubules
permeable to water (6)

Answer:
1.1.1 (a) Hypophysis / Pituitary gland
(b) Adrenal gland
(c) Pancreas
1.1.2 (a) D - Testis
(b) C - Pancreas
(c) A – Hypophysis / Pituitary gland (9)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.2 The diagram below represents the interaction between two important endocrine glands.
The gland labelled A is found at the base of the brain, while the gland labelled C is
present towards the front of the neck.
1.2.1 Give a label for gland A (1)
1.2.2 Name hormone B. (1)
1.2.3 State TWO functions of hormone D. (2)
1.2.4 Describe the negative feedback mechanism
that operates when the level of hormone D is higher
than normal in the blood. (5)
1.2.5 Describe the negative feedback mechanism that
operates when the level of hormone D is lower than
normal in the blood. (5)

Answer:
1.2.1 A. Hypophysis / Pituitary gland (1)
1.2.2 B. TSH
(1)
1.2.3 Controls metabolism
Influences heart rate (2)
1.2.4 High levels of thyroxin are detected by the hypophysis
which leads to a decrease
in the secretion of TSH
Activity of thyroid is slowed down /less thyroxin produced
Thyroxin level drops to normal (5)
1.2.5 Low levels of thyroxin are detected by the hypophysis
which leads to an increase
in the secretion of TSH
more thyroxin produced
Thyroxin level rises to normal (5)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.3 Study the flow diagram below.

Identify:
1.3.1 Organ 1: (1)
1.3.2 Hormone 2: (1)
1.3.3 Hormone 3: (1)
1.3.4 The disorder caused when organ 1 fails to release sufficient amounts of
hormone 2 (1)
1.3.5 Describe how the blood glucose level in the human body is returned to normal
when the glucose level decreases to below normal. (4)
1.3.6 Describe how the blood glucose level in the human body is returned to normal
when the glucose level increases to above normal. (4)
Answer
1.3.1 Organ 1: Pancreas (1)
1.3.2 Hormone 2: Insulin (1)
1.3.3 Hormone 3: Glucagon (1)

1.3.4 Diabetes mellitus (1)

1.3.5 The pancreas /Islets of Langerhans is stimulated
to secrete glucagon into the blood
which stimulates the liver / muscles
to convert glycogen into glucose
The glucose level in the blood now increases and returns to normal (4)
1.3.6 The pancreas /Islets of Langerhans is stimulated
to secrete insulin into the blood
which stimulates the liver / muscles
to convert glycose into glycogen
The glucose level in the blood now decreases and returns to normal (4)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.4 The diagram below represents one part of the negative feedback response that
occurs when a person is dehydrated. The decrease in blood volume, as a result of the
excessive loss of water, is detected by the brain.

1.4.1 Identify the

(a) Hormone X (1)
(a) Endocrine gland that secretes hormone X (1)
(c) Target organ (1)
1.4.2 Describe the negative feedback response that occurs when a person is
dehydrated, after it has been detected by the brain. (4)
1.4.3 Describe what happens when the blood has more water than normal (4)
Answer:
1.4.1 (a) ADH
(b) Hypothalamus / Pituitary gland / Hypophysis
(c) Kidney
1.4.2 An increase in ADH causes the walls of the kidney tubule
to become more permeable to water
More water is reabsorbed
and the blood volume increases
Less urine is produced
and the urine is more concentrated
1.4.3 A decrease in ADH causes the walls of the kidney tubule
to become less permeable to water
Less water is reabsorbed
and the blood volume decreases
More urine is produced
and the urine is less concentrated (11)

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.5 Study the flow diagram below of a homeostatic mechanism used to regulate the
concentration of salts in the human body.

1.5.1 Define homeostasis. (2)

1.5.2 Give the name of the following:
(a) Organ A (1)
(b) Gland B (1)
(c) Hormone C (1)
1.5.3 Describe the response by the effector at D. (2)
Answer:
1.5.1 The process by which the human body maintains a constant internal environment
1.5.2 (a) Kidney
(b) Adrenal gland
(c) Aldosterone
1.5.3 Walls of renal tubules
become more permeable
allowing for a greater re-absorption of sodium ions
from the filtrate /into the blood capillaries (7)

1.6 Describe how the human body restores the carbon dioxide concentration
the blood when it rises above normal levels. (6)
Receptor cells
in the carotid artery/aorta are stimulated
to send impulses to the medulla oblongata in the brain
which then stimulates the heart
to beat faster
and the breathing muscles /example
to contract more actively
This increases the rate/ depth of breathing
More CO2 is taken to and exhaled from the lungs returning the CO2 level in
the blood to normal.

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.7 The diagram below represents the skin of a person under different environmental conditions.

1.7.1 Identify part X. (1)

1.7.2 Give the LETTER of the diagram which represents the skin on a
hot day. (1)
1.7.3 Name TWO visible reasons for your answer QUESTION 1.7.2. (2)
1.7.4 Name the part of the brain that regulates temperature. (1)
1.7.5 Name ONE hormone which will have the same effect as seen in
diagram A.
Answer:
1.7.1 sweat glands
1.7.2 B
1.7.3 vasodilation (widening) of blood vessels
Sweat glands are active
1.7.4 hypothalamus
1.7.5 adrenaline

Responding to the environment: Plants – Paper 1, 13 marks

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

The role of AUXINS in phototropism and geotropism:

Question:
1.1 A Grade 12 learner performed an investigation to determine the effect of light
on the growth of plant shoots. The learner divided the plants that were used
into three groups as follows:
Group A – The tip of the shoot was intact.
Group B – The tip of the shoot was removed.
Group C – The tip of the shoot was covered by a cap that does not allow
light to pass through.
The diagram below shows each shoot at the start of the investigation and
next to each, the same shoot at the end of the investigation.
The arrows indicate the direction of light in each investigation.

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Life Sciences Gr 12 Cape Winelands Survival Kit – PAPER 1 2022

1.1.1 The influence of which plant hormone is being investigated? (1)

1.1.2 Explain the results observed in investigations A and C, as illustrated in the
diagram above. (6)
1.1.3 Plants respond to gravity.
Explain why the root grows in different directions when a pot plant
is placed horizontally on the ground, receiving light equally from all directions. (6)
Answer:
1.1.1 Auxins
1.1.2 In investigation A:
Light from the right
caused auxins to move to shaded side of the shoot
leading to increased cell elongation and division
There was therefore greater growth on the shaded side
thus bending the shoot in the direction of the source of light
In investigation C:
Light has no influence on the distribution of auxins
therefore the shoot grew upright

1.1.3 There is a high concentration of auxins on the lower side of the root
which inhibits growth/cell elongation/cell division on the lower side
There is a low concentration of auxins on the upper side of the root
which stimulates growth/cell elongation/cell division on the upper side
The upper side of the root grows faster /Uneven growth occurs
causing the root to grow/bend downwards
The root grows towards gravity /The root is positively geotropic

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