AQA GCSE Physical Education Paper 1: The human body and movement in physical activity and sport, June 2025: Question 1

✅ Correct Answer

A – Blood cell production

• 1 Mark: Exactly one box shaded next to option A.
• Bone marrow inside larger bones (e.g. femur, pelvis, ribs) produces white blood cells (leukocytes), which actively combat bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.

💡 Key Knowledge: 6 Functions of the Skeleton

• Blood cell production: Bone marrow creates red blood cells (carry O₂), white blood cells (fight infection), and platelets (clot blood).
• Protection: Encloses vital organs (e.g. cranium protects the brain; ribs protect heart and lungs).
• Support: Keeps the body upright and holds internal organs in place.
• Movement: Bones act as levers moved by attached muscles.
• Structural shape: Gives the body its framework and height.
• Mineral storage: Stores calcium and phosphorus.

🧠 Exam Technique & Examiner Insight

• Link function to biological detail: Notice the trigger words fight off infections . Ask yourself: what fights infection? → White blood cells. Which function creates them? → Blood cell production.
• AO1 Recall: These 1-mark multiple choice questions are designed to be fast. Secure the mark in under 30 seconds to bank time for the longer 6-mark or 9-mark evaluation questions later in Paper 1.
• Clear marking: Completely fill the oval or box. If you change your mind, cross through your first choice cleanly and clearly mark the new one.

❌ Common Misconceptions

• Choosing "Protection" (Option B): Students often see "protection" and associate it with "protecting against illness." In the GCSE PE specification, protection strictly refers to mechanical protection of vital organs from physical impact (e.g. ribs protecting lungs during a tackle).
• Forgetting blood types: Many candidates only remember that bones make red blood cells for oxygen transport, completely forgetting that bone marrow is also the site of white blood cell and platelet production.