Question 19M.1.SL.TZ2.16
| Date | May 2019 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 1] | Reference code | 19M.1.SL.TZ2.16 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 1 | Time zone | TZ2 |
| Command term | Deduce | Question number | 16 | Adapted from | N/A |
Genetically modified maize, called Bt maize, is thought to be affecting the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in the USA. What is the reason for this?
A. The monarch butterfly feeds on maize nectar, which contains Bt toxin.
B. The monarch caterpillar feeds on maize leaves, which contain Bt toxin.
C. Bt toxin kills the plants that the monarch caterpillar usually eats.
D. Bt toxin is in maize pollen, which blows on to plants that the monarch caterpillar eats.
[1]
D
Teachers complained that this question was too specific as students not familiar with the monarch butterfly may not know how to respond to this even if they are familiar with the dangers of genetically modified crops. In section 3.5 it sates as a skill that candidates should analyse data on risks to monarch butterflies of Bt crops, therefore the question is fair. The data available deals with Bt maize and its pollen on milkweed affecting monarch butterfly larvae.
