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IB Biology SL D3.1 Reproduction Questions

Practise IB Biology SL D3.1 by comparing reproduction, identifying anatomy and tracing hormones, fertilization and reproductive technology.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • Explain how asexual reproduction produces mitotic clones with little genetic variation.
  • Identify male and female reproductive structures and explain their functions.
  • Interpret ovarian and uterine cycle graphs using FSH, LH, oestrogen and progesterone feedback.
  • Explain human fertilisation as sperm entry and fusion of gamete nuclei into a diploid zygote.
  • Sequence IVF from hormone treatment and egg collection to embryo culture and transfer.
  • Label flower structures, distinguish pollination from fertilisation, and locate meiosis and gamete formation.
  • Explain how dioecy, asynchronous flower maturation and self-incompatibility reduce self-pollination and inbreeding.

Covered syllabus points

D3.1.1—Sexual vs. asexual reproductionD3.1.2—Role of meiosis and gamete fusionD3.1.3—Male vs. female sexesD3.1.4—Human reproductive system anatomyD3.1.5—Ovarian and uterine cyclesD3.1.6—Fertilization in humansD3.1.7—In vitro fertilization (IVF)D3.1.8—Sexual reproduction in flowering plantsD3.1.9—Insect-pollinated flower featuresD3.1.10—Promoting cross-pollinationD3.1.11—Self-incompatibility mechanismsD3.1.12—Seed dispersal and germination

Question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

This redwood tree (Sequoia sempervirens) was blown over in 1936, but five side branches formed new roots and are now separate trees.

Three of the new trees formed from side branches of the original tree

Figure for Question 1 — IB Biology SL

If the genomes of the five new trees were sequenced, predict with a reason how similar they would be to each other.

Question 2

[Maximum number: 1]

Which of the following will promote variation in a species?

I. Meiosis
II. Fertilization
III. Natural selection

A

I only

B

II only

C

I and II only

D

I, II and III

Question 3

[Maximum number: 5]

Draw a labelled diagram of the human adult male reproductive system.

Question 4

[Maximum number: 8]

Outline the role of hormones in the menstrual cycle.

Question 5

[Maximum number: 1]

What happens during fertilization in humans?

A

The nuclear membranes of sperm and egg break down.

B

The sperm enters the egg.

C

The chromosomes undergo joint meiosis.

D

Mitochondria in the zygote come from sperm and egg.

Question 6

[Maximum number: 9]

Embryos that are produced by in vitro fertilization can be screened for genetic disease. Outline the process of in vitro fertilization, including one example of a situation when it is used.

Question 7

[Maximum number: 3]

The micrograph shows onion (Allium cepa) meristematic tissue.

Figure for Question 7 — IB Biology SL

Question (a)

(a)

Meiosis is another type of cell division. List two structures in which meiosis takes place in a flowering plant such as an onion.
1.
2.

[ 2 ]

Question (b)

(b)

Define pollination.

[ 1 ]

Question 8

[Maximum number: 2]

The micrograph shows onion (Allium cepa) meristematic tissue.

Figure for Question 8 — IB Biology SL

Outline how cross-pollination can be promoted by flowering plants.

Question 9

[Maximum number: 1]

Cherry trees (Prunus avium) have two self-incompatibility alleles. What benefit do self-incompatibility alleles have?

A

They decrease genetic variation.

B

They prevent inbreeding.

C

They decrease the chances of mutations taking place within the gametes.

D

They prevent the plant from releasing pollen at certain times of the year.

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