DP Biology (first assessment 2025)

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Question 19M.2.SL.TZ1.a

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Date May 2019 Marks available [Maximum mark: 3] Reference code 19M.2.SL.TZ1.a
Level SL Paper 2 Time zone TZ1
Command term Explain Question number a Adapted from N/A
a.
[Maximum mark: 3]
19M.2.SL.TZ1.a

Explain the neural control of swallowing.

[3]

Markscheme

a. voluntary passage of food through the mouth ✔

b. «bolus of» food touches the walls of the pharynx ✔

c. nerve sends message/impulse to brain ✔

d. swallowing centre in the medulla «oblongata» ✔

e. now involuntary/unconscious/autonomic responses/reflexes ✔

f. triggers closing of epiglottis «to prevent choking» ✔

g. leading to contraction of muscles/peristalsis «in the pharynx and esophagus» ✔

Examiners report

Very few candidates recognized the voluntary aspect of swallowing. The role of the medulla and consequent involuntary action were most often described, although answers were frequently quite muddled.

Syllabus sections