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Primary 4 Science Semestral Assessment 2 (End of Year) Paper 5
Free P4 Science SA2 Paper 5, Nemo3 Exam version, with questions, answers, and syllabus-aligned practice for Singapore students.
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Questions
TuitionGoWhere Practice Paper - Science Primary 4
TuitionGoWhere Exam Practice (AI)
Subject: Science
Level: Primary 4
Paper: SA2 (Semestral Assessment 2) - Version 5
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Marks: 100
Name: _______________________
Class: Primary 4 _______
Date: _______________________
INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES
- Do not turn over this page until you are told to do so.
- Follow all instructions carefully.
- Answer all questions.
- For Section A, shade your answers on the Optical Answer Sheet (OAS) provided.
- For Section B, write your answers in the spaces provided in this booklet.
- The number of marks is given in brackets [ ] at the end of each question or part question.
- The total marks for this paper is 100.
SECTION A: Multiple-Choice Questions (56 marks)
Questions 1 to 28 carry 2 marks each. For each question, four options are given. Choose the correct answer and shade the correct oval (1, 2, 3 or 4) on the Optical Answer Sheet.
Diversity (Living and Non-Living Things)
1 Which of the following groups contains only living things?
(1) Mushroom, moss, fern
(2) Cloud, river, rock
(3) Robot, car, computer
(4) Shadow, reflection, light
2 Study the classification chart below.
Generated diagram for Q2.
Which item is classified correctly?
(1) Item A – Non-Living Things → Natural
(2) Item B – Living Things → Plants
(3) Item C – Non-Living Things → Natural
(4) Item D – Non-Living Things → Man-made
3 Four pupils made the following statements about living things.
Ali: All living things can move from place to place.
Bala: All living things need air, food and water.
Cindy: All living things reproduce by laying eggs.
Devi: All living things grow and respond to changes.
Which pupil(s) made a correct statement?
(1) Bala only
(2) Ali and Cindy only
(3) Bala and Devi only
(4) Ali, Bala and Devi only
4 The diagram below shows a plant.
Generated diagram for Q4.
Which of the following correctly states the functions of Part X and Part Y?
| Part X | Part Y | |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | Makes food for the plant | Protects the seeds |
| (2) | Attracts pollinators | Protects the seeds |
| (3) | Absorbs water and minerals | Disperses the seeds |
| (4) | Supports the plant | Makes food for the plant |
5 Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of fungi?
(1) They reproduce by spores.
(2) They make their own food.
(3) They feed on dead or decaying matter.
(4) They cannot move from place to place.
6 Study the flowchart below.
Generated diagram for Q6.
Which organism would be classified as "Fungi" using this flowchart?
(1) Moss
(2) Yeast
(3) Bacteria
(4) Fern
7 The table below shows the characteristics of four things, W, X, Y and Z. A tick (✓) shows the presence of the characteristic.
| Characteristic | W | X | Y | Z |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Needs air, food and water | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Can reproduce | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Responds to changes | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Grows | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Makes its own food | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
Which of the following correctly identifies W, X, Y and Z?
| W | X | Y | Z | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | Mushroom | Bird's nest fern | Rock | Water |
| (2) | Cat | Rose plant | Sand | Air |
| (3) | Bacteria | Mushroom | Plastic | Metal |
| (4) | Moss | Bacteria | Glass | Fire |
Diversity (Materials)
8 Which of the following properties is true for ALL metals?
(1) They are magnetic.
(2) They are good conductors of heat.
(3) They float on water.
(4) They are transparent.
9 Study the classification table below.
| Group A | Group B |
|---|---|
| Copper wire | Plastic ruler |
| Iron nail | Wooden spoon |
| Steel key | Rubber band |
| Aluminium foil | Glass marble |
What is the most suitable heading for Group A and Group B?
| Group A | Group B | |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | Metals | Non-metals |
| (2) | Conductors of electricity | Insulators of electricity |
| (3) | Magnetic materials | Non-magnetic materials |
| (4) | Flexible materials | Rigid materials |
10 Four strips of different materials of the same size and thickness were tested for flexibility. The results are shown below.
Generated diagram for Q10.
Based on the results, which material is the most suitable for making a ruler?
(1) Material P
(2) Material Q
(3) Material R
(4) Material S
11 Which of the following statements about water is correct?
(1) Water has a definite shape but no definite volume.
(2) Water has a definite volume but no definite shape.
(3) Water has both a definite shape and a definite volume.
(4) Water has neither a definite shape nor a definite volume.
12 The diagram below shows the water cycle.
Generated diagram for Q12.
At which stage does water vapour lose heat to the surroundings?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
13 Mary placed a metal spoon and a plastic spoon into a cup of hot water. After two minutes, she touched the handles. The metal spoon handle felt hotter than the plastic spoon handle.
What does this show about the two materials?
(1) Metal is a better conductor of heat than plastic.
(2) Plastic is a better conductor of heat than metal.
(3) Metal absorbs more heat than plastic.
(4) Plastic absorbs more heat than metal.
14 Which of the following objects is made of a material that is waterproof, flexible and transparent?
(1) Raincoat
(2) Glass window
(3) Plastic food wrap
(4) Rubber boots
15 The table below shows the properties of four materials, A, B, C and D.
| Material | Waterproof | Flexible | Transparent | Strong |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| B | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| C | No | Yes | No | No |
| D | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Which material is most suitable for making a shower curtain?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
Systems (Plant Parts and Functions)
16 The diagram below shows a cross-section of a stem.
Generated diagram for Q16.
What will happen if the food-carrying tubes (Y) are removed in a ring around the stem?
(1) The roots will not receive food and will die.
(2) The leaves will not receive water and will wilt.
(3) The stem will not be able to support the plant.
(4) Water cannot be transported to the leaves.
17 Which part of the plant anchors it firmly to the ground?
(1) Leaf
(2) Stem
(3) Root
(4) Flower
18 In an experiment, a plant with white flowers was placed in red-coloured water. After a few hours, the flower petals turned red.
Which tubes in the stem transported the red-coloured water?
(1) Food-carrying tubes
(2) Water-carrying tubes
(3) Both food-carrying and water-carrying tubes
(4) Neither food-carrying nor water-carrying tubes
19 The diagram below shows a leaf.
Generated diagram for Q19.
Which of the following matches the parts to their functions?
| Part X (Stomata) | Part Y (Chloroplasts) | |
|---|---|---|
| (1) | Takes in carbon dioxide | Traps light energy |
| (2) | Releases oxygen | Absorbs water |
| (3) | Transports food | Makes food |
| (4) | Supports the leaf | Takes in sunlight |
Systems (Human Digestive System)
20 The diagram below shows the human digestive system.
Generated diagram for Q20.
In which part does digestion of food first begin?
(1) A
(2) B
(3) C
(4) D
21 Where does most absorption of digested food into the blood take place?
(1) Stomach
(2) Small intestine
(3) Large intestine
(4) Gullet
22 Which of the following statements about the digestive system is correct?
(1) The gullet digests food using digestive juices.
(2) The large intestine absorbs water from undigested food.
(3) The stomach absorbs digested food into the blood.
(4) The mouth only chews food; no digestion occurs there.
23 The graph below shows the amount of undigested food passing through different parts of the digestive system.
Generated graph for Q23.
Based on the graph, in which part does the most digestion occur?
(1) Stomach
(2) Small intestine
(3) Large intestine
(4) Gullet
Energy (Light and Shadows)
24 Which of the following is a source of light?
(1) Moon
(2) Mirror
(3) Sun
(4) White paper
25 The diagram below shows how a shadow is formed.
Generated diagram for Q25.
Which of the following statements explains why a shadow is formed?
(1) Light bends around the object.
(2) Light passes through the object.
(3) Light travels in straight lines and is blocked by the object.
(4) Light reflects off the object onto the screen.
26 Ahmad wants to make the shadow of a toy car larger on the screen. Which of the following will achieve this?
(1) Move the screen further away from the toy car.
(2) Move the light source further away from the toy car.
(3) Move the toy car closer to the screen.
(4) Use a brighter light source.
27 Four sheets of different materials are placed in the path of a beam of light. The amount of light that passes through each sheet is measured.
| Material | Amount of light passing through (units) |
|---|---|
| W | 0 |
| X | 50 |
| Y | 95 |
| Z | 10 |
Which material is most likely a transparent material?
(1) W
(2) X
(3) Y
(4) Z
28 The diagram below shows a stick placed vertically on the ground under the Sun at different times of the day.
Generated diagram for Q28.
Which of the following correctly describes the change in the shadow from 9 am to 12 pm?
(1) The shadow becomes longer and changes direction.
(2) The shadow becomes shorter and changes direction.
(3) The shadow becomes longer but remains in the same direction.
(4) The shadow becomes shorter but remains in the same direction.
SECTION B: Open-Ended Questions (44 marks)
Questions 29 to 40 carry the marks shown. Write your answers in the spaces provided.
Diversity (Living and Non-Living Things)
29 The diagram below shows three organisms: a mushroom, a fern, and a butterfly.
Generated diagram for Q29.
(a) Classify the three organisms into the correct groups in the table below. [2]
| Group | Organism(s) |
|---|---|
| Plants | |
| Animals | |
| Fungi |
(b) State one difference between the fern and the mushroom in terms of how they obtain food. [1]
(c) The butterfly lays eggs on the underside of leaves. State the characteristic of living things that this shows. [1]
30 Study the flowchart below.
Generated diagram for Q30.
(a) Using the flowchart, classify "yeast" and state the questions you would ask to reach your answer. [2]
(b) A pupil classified "mould" as a plant because it is green. Explain why this classification is incorrect. [1]
Diversity (Materials)
31 John conducted an experiment to test the strength of four materials: plastic, wood, metal and glass. He placed weights on strips of each material until they broke. The results are shown below.
Generated table for Q31.
(a) Based on the results, which material is the strongest? [1]
(b) John wants to make a bookshelf that can hold heavy books. Which material should he choose? Give a reason for your answer. [1]
(c) State one other property John should consider when choosing a material for the bookshelf, and explain why. [1]
32 The diagram below shows the arrangement of particles in three states of matter.
Image pending generation: diagram for Q32.
(a) Identify the state of matter represented by Box A and Box C. [1]
Box A: _______________
Box C: _______________
(b) In which box do the particles have the most energy? Explain your answer. [1]
(c) Water boils at 100°C. What is the state of water at 120°C? [1]
Systems (Plant Parts and Functions)
33 The diagram below shows a plant with its roots in a beaker of blue-coloured water. After two days, the leaves and flowers turned blue.
Generated diagram for Q33.
(a) Name the tubes in the stem that transport water from the roots to the other parts of the plant. [1]
(b) Explain why the leaves and flowers turned blue. [1]
(c) If the roots of the plant were cut off, what would happen to the leaves? Explain your answer. [2]
34 A pupil set up an experiment as shown below to find out if leaves need light to make food.
Generated experimental_setup for Q34.
(a) What is the aim of this experiment? [1]
(b) Why is it important that both plants are watered equally? [1]
(c) What conclusion can be drawn from the results? [1]
Systems (Human Digestive System)
35 The table below shows the functions of different parts of the human digestive system. Fill in the blanks with the correct parts. [3]
| Function | Part of Digestive System |
|---|---|
| Chews and breaks down food into smaller pieces; saliva mixes with food | _______________ |
| Pushes food down to the stomach using muscular contractions | _______________ |
| Produces digestive juices to break down food; churns food | _______________ |
| Completes digestion; absorbs digested food into the blood | _______________ |
| Absorbs water from undigested food; forms faeces | _______________ |
36 The diagram below shows what happens to a piece of bread as it passes through the digestive system.
Generated diagram for Q36.
(a) Name the digestive juice produced in the mouth. [1]
(b) State the function of the digestive juice in the mouth. [1]
(c) The liver produces bile. Where is bile stored before it is released into the small intestine? [1]
(d) Explain why digestion is important for the body. [1]
Energy (Light and Shadows)
37 The diagram below shows a torch shining on a wooden block. A shadow is formed on the screen.
Generated diagram for Q37.
(a) State two properties of light shown in the diagram. [2]
(b) If the wooden block is replaced with a clear glass block of the same size and shape, what will happen to the shadow? Explain your answer. [2]
38 Mei Ling conducted an experiment to investigate how the distance between the light source and an object affects the size of the shadow. She used a torch, a ball, and a screen. The results are shown below.
Generated table for Q38.
(a) What is the relationship between the distance of the torch from the ball and the height of the shadow? [1]
(b) Predict the height of the shadow when the torch is 35 cm from the ball. [1]
(c) State one variable that must be kept constant for this experiment to be fair. [1]
39 The diagram below shows a periscope.
Generated diagram for Q39.
(a) On the diagram, draw the path of light from the object to the eye. [1]
(b) State the property of light that allows the periscope to work. [1]
(c) If the bottom mirror is removed, will the person be able to see the object? Explain. [1]
40 Study the classification chart below.
Generated diagram for Q40.
(a) A pupil looks through a bathroom window and sees a blurred image of a tree outside. Classify the bathroom window material using the chart. [1]
(b) State one use of a translucent material in daily life. [1]
(c) Explain why a driver cannot see through a cardboard box placed on the car windscreen. [1]
END OF PAPER
Total Marks: 100
Answers
TuitionGoWhere Practice Paper - Science Primary 4 (SA2 Version 5) - Answer Key
Subject: Science
Level: Primary 4
Paper: SA2 (Semestral Assessment 2) - Version 5
Total Marks: 100
SECTION A: Multiple-Choice Questions (56 marks)
Diversity (Living and Non-Living Things)
1 Answer: (1) Mushroom, moss, fern [2 marks]
Explanation: Living things need air, food, and water; they grow, reproduce, and respond to changes. Mushrooms (fungi), mosses, and ferns (plants) are all living things. Clouds, rivers, rocks, robots, cars, computers, shadows, reflections, and light are non-living things.
Common mistake: Students may think mushrooms are non-living because they don't move, or that clouds are living because they "move" and "grow".
2 Answer: (3) Item C – Non-Living Things → Natural [2 marks]
Explanation:
- Item A (Mushroom) is a fungus → Living Things → Fungi (not Non-Living)
- Item B (Wooden chair) is man-made from wood → Non-Living Things → Man-made (not Living Things)
- Item C (River stone) is a natural non-living thing → Non-Living Things → Natural ✓
- Item D (Moss) is a plant → Living Things → Plants (not Non-Living)
3 Answer: (3) Bala and Devi only [2 marks]
Explanation:
- Ali: Incorrect. Plants are living things but cannot move from place to place.
- Bala: Correct. All living things need air, food, and water.
- Cindy: Incorrect. Not all living things lay eggs (e.g., mammals give birth, plants produce seeds/spores).
- Devi: Correct. All living things grow and respond to changes.
4 Answer: (2) Part X: Attracts pollinators | Part Y: Protects the seeds [2 marks]
Explanation:
- Part X is the flower. Its function is to attract pollinators (bees, butterflies) for pollination.
- Part Y is the fruit. Its function is to protect the seeds inside and aid in seed dispersal.
Common mistake: Students may confuse flower function with "makes food" (that's the leaf) or fruit function with "disperses seeds" (fruit protects seeds; dispersal is a separate process).
5 Answer: (2) They make their own food. [2 marks]
Explanation: Fungi (mushrooms, yeast, mould) are decomposers. They cannot make their own food (no chlorophyll). They feed on dead or decaying matter by secreting digestive enzymes and absorbing nutrients. They reproduce by spores and cannot move from place to place.
6 Answer: (2) Yeast [2 marks]
Explanation: Following the flowchart:
- Yeast is a living thing → Yes
- Does it make its own food? → No (fungi are decomposers)
- Does it reproduce by spores? → Yes (yeast reproduces by budding/spores) → Classified as Fungi.
Moss and fern are plants (make own food). Bacteria are micro-organisms but not classified as fungi in this simplified flowchart.
7 Answer: (2) Cat | Rose plant | Sand | Air [2 marks]
Explanation:
- W: Needs air/food/water, reproduces, responds, grows, does NOT make own food → Animal (Cat) ✓
- X: All characteristics including makes own food → Plant (Rose plant) ✓
- Y: No living characteristics → Non-living (Sand) ✓
- Z: No living characteristics → Non-living (Air) ✓
Option (1): Mushroom doesn't make own food. Option (3): Bacteria are living. Option (4): Moss makes own food.
Diversity (Materials)
8 Answer: (2) They are good conductors of heat. [2 marks]
Explanation: All metals are good conductors of heat and electricity. However, not all metals are magnetic (only iron, nickel, cobalt, steel). Metals sink in water (high density). Metals are opaque, not transparent.
9 Answer: (2) Conductors of electricity | Insulators of electricity [2 marks]
Explanation: Group A (copper, iron, steel, aluminium) are all metals and good conductors of electricity. Group B (plastic, wood, rubber, glass) are non-metals and insulators of electricity.
Note: Not all Group A are magnetic (copper, aluminium are not). Not all Group B are non-magnetic (some may contain iron). Flexibility varies within groups.
10 Answer: (4) Material S [2 marks]
Explanation: A ruler must be rigid (not bend) to measure accurately. Material S did not bend at all when the same weight was applied, making it the most rigid and suitable for a ruler.
11 Answer: (2) Water has a definite volume but no definite shape. [2 marks]
Explanation: Water is a liquid. Liquids have a definite volume (cannot be compressed easily) but no definite shape (take the shape of their container). Solids have both definite shape and volume. Gases have neither.
12 Answer: (2) B [2 marks]
Explanation:
- A (Evaporation): Water gains heat, changes from liquid to gas.
- B (Condensation): Water vapour loses heat to surroundings, changes from gas to liquid (clouds form).
- C (Precipitation): Water falls as rain.
- D (Collection): Water gathers in water bodies.
Condensation is the process where water vapour loses heat.
13 Answer: (1) Metal is a better conductor of heat than plastic. [2 marks]
Explanation: The metal spoon handle felt hotter because metal conducts heat away from the hot water faster than plastic. Heat travels quickly through metal (good conductor) but slowly through plastic (poor conductor/insulator).
14 Answer: (3) Plastic food wrap [2 marks]
Explanation:
- Raincoat: Waterproof, flexible, but NOT transparent.
- Glass window: Waterproof, transparent, but NOT flexible.
- Plastic food wrap: Waterproof, flexible, AND transparent ✓
- Rubber boots: Waterproof, flexible, but NOT transparent.
15 Answer: (4) D [2 marks]
Explanation: A shower curtain needs to be:
- Waterproof (to keep water in) → D: Yes
- Flexible (to hang and move) → D: Yes
- Transparent (to let light in) → D: Yes
- Strong: Not critical for shower curtain → D: No (acceptable)
Material A: Not flexible. Material B: Not transparent. Material C: Not waterproof.
Systems (Plant Parts and Functions)
16 Answer: (1) The roots will not receive food and will die. [2 marks]
Explanation: Food-carrying tubes (phloem) transport food made in the leaves to all parts of the plant, including the roots. If these tubes are removed in a ring (girdling), food cannot reach the roots, and they will die. Water-carrying tubes (xylem) transport water upward from roots to leaves.
17 Answer: (3) Root [2 marks]
Explanation: Roots anchor the plant firmly to the ground, absorb water and minerals from the soil, and store food. Stems support the plant and transport substances. Leaves make food. Flowers are for reproduction.
18 Answer: (2) Water-carrying tubes [2 marks]
Explanation: The red-coloured water was absorbed by the roots and transported up the stem to the flowers. Water-carrying tubes (xylem) transport water and dissolved minerals from roots to all parts of the plant. Food-carrying tubes transport food from leaves downward.
19 Answer: (1) Part X (Stomata): Takes in carbon dioxide | Part Y (Chloroplasts): Traps light energy [2 marks]
Explanation:
- Stomata (Part X) are
<stage3_exam_answers_md>
TuitionGoWhere Practice Paper - Science Primary 4 (Answer Key)
TuitionGoWhere Exam Practice (AI)
Subject: Science
Level: Primary 4
Paper: SA2 (Semestral Assessment 2) - Version 5
Total Marks: 100
SECTION A: Multiple-Choice Questions (56 marks)
| Question | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | (1) | Mushroom, moss, and fern are all living things (fungi and plants). Cloud, river, rock are non-living natural things. Robot, car, computer are man-made non-living things. Shadow, reflection, light are non-living phenomena. |
| 2 | (3) | Item C (River stone) is a non-living natural thing. Item A (Mushroom) is a living thing (fungi). Item B (Wooden chair) is man-made non-living. Item D (Moss) is a living thing (plant). |
| 3 | (3) | Bala is correct: all living things need air, food, and water. Devi is correct: all living things grow and respond to changes. Ali is incorrect: plants don't move from place to place. Cindy is incorrect: not all living things lay eggs (plants, mammals, etc.). |
| 4 | (2) | Part X (Flower) attracts pollinators. Part Y (Fruit) protects the seeds. |
| 5 | (2) | Fungi do NOT make their own food (they are decomposers/saprotrophs). They reproduce by spores, feed on dead/decaying matter, and cannot move from place to place. |
| 6 | (2) | Yeast is a fungus (reproduces by spores, doesn't make own food). Moss and fern are plants (make own food). Bacteria is a micro-organism (not classified as fungi in this flowchart). |
| 7 | (2) | W: Cat (living, doesn't make food). X: Rose plant (living, makes food). Y: Sand (non-living). Z: Air (non-living). |
| 8 | (2) | All metals are good conductors of heat. Not all are magnetic (e.g., copper, aluminium). Metals sink in water (except mercury which is liquid). Metals are opaque, not transparent. |
| 9 | (2) | Group A (copper, iron, steel, aluminium) are conductors of electricity. Group B (plastic, wood, rubber, glass) are insulators. Note: Not all Group A are magnetic (copper, aluminium not magnetic). |
| 10 | (4) | A ruler needs to be rigid (not bend). Material S does not bend at all, making it most suitable. |
| 11 | (2) | Water is a liquid: definite volume, no definite shape (takes shape of container). |
| 12 | (2) | Condensation (B) is when water vapour loses heat to surroundings and changes to liquid droplets (clouds). |
| 13 | (1) | Metal conducts heat better than plastic, so heat travels faster to the handle, making it feel hotter. |
| 14 | (3) | Plastic food wrap is waterproof, flexible, and transparent. Raincoat: not transparent. Glass window: not flexible. Rubber boots: not transparent. |
| 15 | (4) | Shower curtain needs: waterproof (yes), flexible (yes), transparent (yes - to see through/let light in), strong (not critical). Material D fits all. |
| 16 | (1) | Food-carrying tubes (phloem) transport food from leaves to roots. If removed in a ring, food cannot reach roots, so roots die. Water-carrying tubes (xylem) are separate. |
| 17 | (3) | Roots anchor the plant firmly to the ground. |
| 18 | (2) | Water-carrying tubes (xylem) transport water and minerals from roots to all parts. The red water travels up these tubes to the flower. |
| 19 | (1) | Stomata (Part X) take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. Chloroplasts (Part Y) trap light energy for photosynthesis. |
| 20 | (1) | Digestion begins in the mouth (A) with chewing and salivary amylase breaking down starch. |
| 21 | (2) | Most absorption occurs in the small intestine (villi increase surface area). |
| 22 | (2) | Large intestine absorbs water from undigested food. Gullet: no digestion, just transport. Stomach: digests, minimal absorption. Mouth: digestion begins (saliva). |
| 23 | (2) | Largest drop in undigested food: Stomach (100→60 = 40) and Small intestine (60→10 = 50). Small intestine has the greatest drop (50 units), so most digestion occurs there. |
| 24 | (3) | Sun is a light source (produces own light). Moon, mirror, white paper only reflect light. |
| 25 | (3) | Shadows form because light travels in straight lines and is blocked by opaque objects. |
| 26 | (1) | Moving screen further from object increases shadow size (similar triangles). Moving light further decreases shadow. Moving object closer to screen decreases shadow. Brightness doesn't affect size. |
| 27 | (3) | Transparent materials allow most light through. Material Y (95 units) transmits the most light. W (0) = opaque, X (50) = translucent, Z (10) = translucent/opaque. |
| 28 | (2) | From 9am to 12pm: Sun rises higher → shadow becomes shorter. Sun moves from east to overhead → shadow direction changes (west → north). |
SECTION B: Open-Ended Questions (44 marks)
Question 29 (3 marks)
a) Classify the three organisms into the correct groups in the table below. [1]
| Plants | Fungi | Animals |
|---|---|---|
| Fern | Mushroom | Butterfly |
b) State one characteristic of fungi that is different from plants. [1] Fungi cannot make their own food / Fungi feed on dead or decaying matter / Fungi reproduce by spores (while plants reproduce by seeds/spores but make own food).
c) The butterfly lays eggs on the leaves of the fern. Explain why the butterfly does this. [1] So that the caterpillars (larvae) have food (fern leaves) to eat immediately after hatching.
Question 30 (2 marks)
a) Based on the diagram, state the function of Part A. [1] Part A (Gullet/Oesophagus): Transports food from the mouth to the stomach. / Connects mouth to stomach.
b) No digestion takes place in Part A. Explain why. [1] The gullet has no digestive juices / enzymes. Its walls are muscular for peristalsis (pushing food down), not for digestion.
Question 31 (3 marks)
a) In the diagram above, label the water-carrying tubes and food-carrying tubes. [1] (Label the larger outer tubes as "Water-carrying tubes (Xylem)" and smaller inner tubes as "Food-carrying tubes (Phloem)")
b) The food-carrying tubes were removed in a ring around the stem. After a few days, the stem above the cut became swollen. Explain why. [2] Food made by the leaves is transported down the food-carrying tubes. When these tubes are cut, food cannot be transported past the cut and accumulates above it, causing swelling.
Question 32 (2 marks)
a) State the function of the stomata on the underside of leaves. [1] To take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen / for gaseous exchange / to allow transpiration (release water vapour).
b) Explain why most stomata are found on the underside of leaves rather than the upper side. [1] To reduce water loss through transpiration, as the underside is shaded from direct sunlight and cooler.
Question 33 (3 marks)
The diagram below shows a set-up to investigate a property of light.
<image_placeholder> id: Q33-fig1 type: diagram linked_question: Q33 description: A torch shines on a mirror. The reflected light hits a white screen. Angles marked: angle of incidence (between incident ray and normal), angle of reflection (between reflected ray and normal). labels: Torch, Mirror, Screen, Incident ray, Reflected ray, Normal, Angle of incidence, Angle of reflection values: None must_show: Clear ray diagram showing reflection with normal and angles labelled </image_placeholder>
a) What property of light is being investigated? [1] Reflection of light / Light reflects off shiny surfaces.
b) State the relationship between the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection. [1] The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.
c) If the mirror is replaced with a piece of white paper, what will be observed on the screen? Explain. [1] No bright patch of light will be seen on the screen / The light will be scattered. White paper has a rough surface, so it reflects light in many directions (diffuse reflection) instead of one direction (regular reflection).
Question 34 (4 marks)
a) Complete the flowchart below to show the changes in state of water. [2]
Water (liquid) --(loses heat)--> Ice (solid)
Water (liquid) --(gains heat)--> Water vapour (gas)
Water vapour (gas) --(loses heat)--> Water (liquid)
Ice (solid) --(gains heat)--> Water (liquid)
b) Puddles of water on the ground dry up after rain even though the temperature is below the boiling point of water. Explain why. [2] Water evaporates at any temperature. Water molecules at the surface gain enough heat energy from the surroundings to escape as water vapour. This process (evaporation) occurs below boiling point.
Question 35 (3 marks)
Four materials A, B, C, D were tested for strength. Weights were added until each material broke. The results are shown.
| Material | Weight needed to break (kg) |
|---|---|
| A | 5 |
| B | 20 |
| C | 50 |
| D | 10 |
a) Which material is the strongest? [1] Material C
b) A manufacturer wants to make a safety helmet. Which material (A, B, C, or D) is most suitable? Give a reason. [1] Material C. It is the strongest (withstands the most weight), providing the best protection.
c) State one other property the material for a safety helmet should have, besides strength. [1] Lightweight / Not too heavy / Comfortable / Durable / Waterproof / Heat resistant.
Question 36 (3 marks)
The diagram below shows the life cycle of a mosquito.
<image_placeholder> id: Q36-fig1 type: diagram linked_question: Q36 description: Life cycle of mosquito: Eggs (on water) → Larva (wriggler, in water) → Pupa (tumbler, in water) → Adult (flying). Arrows show cycle. labels: Egg, Larva, Pupa, Adult, Water values: None must_show: Four stages clearly labelled with arrows; habitat (water/air) indicated </image_placeholder>
a) At which stage(s) does the mosquito live in water? [1] Egg, Larva, and Pupa stages (all except Adult).
b) The larva and pupa breathe through a breathing tube at the water surface. Why must they come to the water surface to breathe? [1] They need oxygen from the air / They do not have gills to breathe underwater / They breathe atmospheric air.
c) State one way to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in stagnant water. [1] Add oil to the water surface (suffocates larvae/pupae) / Cover water containers / Remove stagnant water / Introduce fish that eat larvae / Use larvicide.
Question 37 (4 marks)
a) The diagram below shows a plant cell and an animal cell.
<image_placeholder> id: Q37-fig1 type: diagram linked_question: Q37 description: Two cells side by side. Left: Plant cell - cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, chloroplasts, large vacuole. Right: Animal cell - cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, small vacuoles. Parts labelled. labels: Plant cell: Cell wall, Cell membrane, Cytoplasm, Nucleus, Chloroplast, Large vacuole. Animal cell: Cell membrane, Cytoplasm, Nucleus, Small vacuoles. values: None must_show: Clear comparison of plant vs animal cell with all organelles labelled </image_placeholder>
Name two structures found in the plant cell but not in the animal cell. [2]
- Cell wall
- Chloroplasts (or Large central vacuole)
b) State the function of the nucleus in a cell. [1] Controls all activities of the cell / Contains genetic material (DNA) / Controls cell division.
c) Why do root cells of a plant not have chloroplasts? [1] Roots are underground and do not receive light, so they cannot photosynthesise / do not need to trap light energy.
Question 38 (4 marks)
a) The diagram shows a circuit with two bulbs, a battery, and a switch.
<image_placeholder> id: Q38-fig1 type: diagram linked_question: Q38 description: Circuit diagram: Battery → Switch → Bulb 1 → Bulb 2 → back to Battery. All in one loop (series). labels: Battery, Switch (open), Bulb 1, Bulb 2, Wires values: None must_show: Clear series circuit diagram with all components labelled </image_placeholder>
(i) What type of circuit is this? [1] Series circuit
(ii) When the switch is closed, both bulbs light up. If Bulb 1 fuses (blows), what happens to Bulb 2? Explain. [2] Bulb 2 will not light up / goes out. In a series circuit, there is only one path for current. If one bulb fuses, the circuit is broken/open, so current cannot flow to Bulb 2.
b) Draw a circuit diagram where two bulbs are connected such that if one bulb fuses, the other remains lit. [1] (Draw a parallel circuit: Battery → Switch → junction → Bulb 1 and Bulb 2 on separate branches → rejoin → Battery)
Question 39 (4 marks)
a) The graph below shows the temperature of water in a beaker as it is heated over time.
<image_placeholder> id: Q39-fig1 type: graph linked_question: Q39 description: Temperature vs Time graph. Temperature rises steadily from room temp to 100°C, then stays constant at 100°C for a period, then rises again (if heating continues beyond boiling). labels: Temperature (°C), Time (min), Boiling point (100°C), Heating, Boiling values: Room temp ~30°C, Boiling 100°C, Plateau at 100°C must_show: Clear heating curve with plateau at boiling point labelled </image_placeholder>
(i) What is happening at the horizontal part of the graph (constant temperature)? [1] The water is boiling / changing state from liquid to gas.
(ii) Explain why the temperature remains constant during this period. [1] Heat energy is used to overcome forces of attraction between water molecules (latent heat) for the change of state, not to increase kinetic energy/temperature.
b) When the water vapour rises and touches a cooler lid, it forms water droplets. Name this process. [1] Condensation
c) State one difference between boiling and evaporation. [1] Boiling occurs at a fixed temperature (100°C) throughout the liquid; evaporation occurs at any temperature, only at the surface. / Boiling is rapid with bubbles; evaporation is slow. / Boiling needs continuous heat source; evaporation uses surrounding heat.
Question 40 (5 marks)
a) The diagram below shows a food chain.
<image_placeholder> id: Q40-fig1 type: diagram linked_question: Q40 description: Food chain: Grass → Grasshopper → Frog → Snake → Eagle. Arrows point from food to consumer. labels: Grass (Producer), Grasshopper (Primary consumer), Frog (Secondary consumer), Snake (Tertiary consumer), Eagle (Quaternary consumer), Sun (energy source) values: None must_show: Clear food chain with arrows showing energy flow; trophic levels labelled </image_placeholder>
(i) Which organism is the producer? [1] Grass
(ii) How many food chains are in this food web? [1] One (this is a single food chain, not a web). / If interpreted as food web: The diagram shows a food chain, not a web.
(iii) If all the frogs are removed, what will happen to the grass population? Explain. [2] The grass population will increase. Frogs eat grasshoppers. Without frogs, grasshopper population increases → more grasshoppers eat grass → grass population decreases. Wait: If frogs removed → grasshoppers increase → grass decreases. Let me re-read: "what will happen to the grass population?" If frogs (predators of grasshoppers) are removed → grasshoppers increase → more grass eaten → grass population decreases.
Correction: Grass population will decrease. Frogs eat grasshoppers. No frogs → more grasshoppers → more grass eaten → grass decreases.
b) The diagram below shows a pyramid of numbers for the food chain above.
<image_placeholder> id: Q40-fig2 type: diagram linked_question: Q40 description: Pyramid of numbers: Base (wide) - Grass (1000), then Grasshopper (100), Frog (10), Snake (5), Eagle (1) at top (narrow). labels: Producer, Primary consumer, Secondary consumer, Tertiary consumer, Quaternary consumer, Number of organisms values: Grass: 1000, Grasshopper: 100, Frog: 10, Snake: 5, Eagle: 1 must_show: Clear pyramid shape with decreasing numbers at each level </image_placeholder>
Explain why the pyramid of numbers has this shape. [1] Energy is lost at each trophic level (as heat, waste, movement), so fewer organisms can be supported at higher levels. / Producers are most numerous to support the consumers above.
MARKING SCHEME SUMMARY
| Section | Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| A (MCQ) | 1-28 | 2 | 56 |
| B (OE) | 29 | 3 | 3 |
| B (OE) | 30 | 2 | 2 |
| B (OE) | 31 | 3 | 3 |
| B (OE) | 32 | 2 | 2 |
| B (OE) | 33 | 3 | 3 |
| B (OE) | 34 | 4 | 4 |
| B (OE) | 35 | 3 | 3 |
| B (OE) | 36 | 3 | 3 |
| B (OE) | 37 | 4 | 4 |
| B (OE) | 38 | 4 | 4 |
| B (OE) | 39 | 4 | 4 |
| B (OE) | 40 | 5 | 5 |
| Total | 100 |
End of Answer Key
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