BCSD Biology Item Bank
*Items may need to be reviewed and reworked to address 2014 standards
Standard H.B.1
H.B.1A.1
H.B.1A.2
H.B.1A.3
H.B.1A.4
H.B.1A.5
H.B.1A.6
H.B.1A.7
H.B.1A.8
H.B.1B.1
H.B.1B.2
Standard H.B.2
H.B.2A.1
H.B.2A.2
H.B.2B.1
H.B.2B.2
H.B.2B.3
H.B.2C.1
H.B.2C.2
H.B.2C.3
H.B.2D.1
H.B.2D.2
H.B.2D.3
H.B.2D.4
Standard H.B.3
H.B.3A.1
H.B.3A.2
H.B.3A.3
H.B.3A.4
H.B.3A.5
Standard H.B.4
H.B.4A.1
H.B.4A.2
H.B.4B.1
H.B.4B.2
H.B.4C.1
H.B.4C.2
H.B.4C.3
H.B.4D.1
Standard H.B.6
H.B.6A.1
H.B.6A.2
H.B.6B.1
H.B.6B.2
H.B.6C.1
H.B.6D.1
Standard B-5
B-5.1
Biology
B-5.2
B-5.3
B-5.4
1
B-5.5
B-5.6
B-5.7
BCSD Item Bank
H.B.1: The student will use the science and engineering practices,
including the processes and skills of scientific inquiry, to develop
understandings of science content.
H.B.1A.1 Ask questions to (1) generate hypotheses for scientific
investigations, (2) refine models, explanations, or designs, or (3)
extend the results of investigations or challenge scientific arguments
or claims.
H.B.1A.2 Develop, use, and refine models to (1) understand or
represent phenomena, processes, and relationships, (2) test devices
or solutions, or (3) communicate ideas to others.
H.B.1A.3 Plan and conduct controlled scientific investigations to
answer questions, test hypotheses, and develop explanations: (1)
formulate scientific questions and testable hypotheses based on
credible scientific information, (2) identify materials, procedures, and
variables, (3) use appropriate laboratory equipment, technology, and
techniques to collect qualitative and quantitative data, and (4) record
and represent data in an appropriate form. Use appropriate safety
procedures.
In a laboratory setting the same amount of yeast, sugar (sucrose), and water are mixed
together by scientists. The scientist changes the temperature during the experiment and
the height of the foam produced was measured. The results of the experiment are depicted
below.
In the experimental setup above, what does the height of the foam (bubbles of a particular
gas) represent?
A. Oxygen gas bubbles
B. Hydrogen gas bubbles
C. Water vapor
D. Carbon dioxide gas bubbles
H.B.1A.3
Biology
2
BCSD Item Bank
In a laboratory setting the same amount of yeast, sugar (sucrose), and water are mixed
together by scientists. The scientist changes the temperature during the experiment and
the height of the foam produced was measured. The results of the experiment are depicted
below.
What would be the independent variable in this experiment?
A. The amount of yeast
B. Amount of water
C. Temperature
D. Height of the foam
H.B.1A.3
In a laboratory setting the same amount of yeast, sugar (sucrose), and water are mixed
together by scientists. The scientist changes the temperature during the experiment and
the height of the foam produced was measured. The results of the experiment are depicted
below.
What would the dependent variable in this experiment?
A. Amount of yeast
B. Amount of water
C. Temperature
D. Height of the foam
H.B.1A.3
Biology
3
BCSD Item Bank
A farmer tests the hypothesis that the more alfalfa sprouts cattle eat, the more milk they
produce. He divides his pasture into four fields and puts twenty cattle in each field. Field 1
cows get no alfalfa sprouts, field 2 cows get ten pounds of sprouts per day, field 3 cows get
twenty pounds of sprouts per day, and field 4 cows get thirty pounds per day. Additionally,
he feeds all groups fifty pounds of regular hay per day, uses the same breed of cattle, and
gives them the same amount of water. He measures the gallons of milk produced per cow
every day.
What is the independent variable in this experiment?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The
The
The
The
number of cattle in each field.
amount of milk the cows produce.
amount of alfalfa sprouts the cattle are fed.
ratio of hay to milk produced.
H.B.1A.3
H.B.1A.4 Analyze and interpret data from informational texts and data
collected from investigations using a range of methods (such as
tabulation, graphing, or statistical analysis) to (1) reveal patterns and
construct meaning, (2) support or refute hypotheses, explanations,
claims, or designs, or (3) evaluate the strength of conclusions.
H.B.1A.5 Use mathematical and computational thinking to (1) use and
manipulate appropriate metric units, (2) express relationships
between variables for models and investigations, and (3) use gradelevel appropriate statistics to analyze data.
H.B.1A.6 Construct explanations of phenomena using (1) primary or
secondary scientific evidence and models, (2) conclusions from
scientific investigations, (3) predictions based on observations and
measurements, or (4) data communicated in graphs, tables, or
diagrams.
H.B.1A.7 Construct and analyze scientific arguments to support
claims, explanations, or designs using evidence and valid reasoning
from observations, data, or informational texts.
H.B.1A.8 Obtain and evaluate scientific information to (1) answer
questions, (2) explain or describe phenomena, (3) develop models,
(4) evaluate hypotheses, explanations, claims, or designs or (5)
identify and/or fill gaps in knowledge. Communicate using the
conventions and expectations of scientific writing or oral
presentations by (1) evaluating grade-appropriate primary or
secondary scientific literature, or (2) reporting the results of student
experimental investigations.
H.B.1B Conceptual Understanding: Technology is any modification to
the natural world created to fulfill the wants and needs of humans.
The engineering design process involves a series of iterative steps
Biology
4
BCSD Item Bank
used to solve a problem and often leads to the development of a new
or improved technology.
H.B.1B.1 Construct devices or design solutions using scientific
knowledge to solve specific problems or needs: (1) ask questions to
identify problems or needs, (2) ask questions about the criteria and
constraints of the device or solutions, (3) generate and communicate
ideas for possible devices or solutions, (4) build and test devices or
solutions, (5) determine if the devices or solutions solved the problem
and refine the design if needed, and (6) communicate the results.
H.B.2: The student will demonstrate the understanding that the
essential functions of life take place within cells or systems of cells.
H.B.2A.1 Conceptual Understanding: The essential functions of a cell
involve chemical reactions that take place between many different
types of molecules (including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and
nucleic acids) that are catalyzed by enzymes.
Animals store most of their excess energy reserves as _______ because _
A. glucose; it is easy to break down.
B. fat; they have the most hydrogen carbon bonds per gram.
C. protein; it is a compact source of energy in their bodies.
D. carbohydrates; they store twice as much energy per gram of glucose.
H.B.2A.1
Which of the following organic compounds is the main source of energy for living things?
A. Lipids
B. Proteins
C. Nucleic acids
D. Carbohydrates
H.B.2A.1*
Biology
5
BCSD Item Bank
Fatty acids and glycerols are the building blocks (components) of which biomolecule?
A. Lipids
B. Proteins
C. Nucleic Acids
D. Carbohydrates
H.B.2A.1*
Carbohydrates contain three elements. They are:
A. carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
B. oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur
C. hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen
D. carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and phosphorous
H.B.2A.1*
A ________________ protein chain is a sequence amino acids that is the foundation for the basic structure of a
protein.
A. polynomial
B. polypeptide
C. polysaccharide
D. polyunsaturated
Biology
6
BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2A.1*
Which of the following molecules would be the most useful for long term energy storage?
A.
B.
C.
D.
H.B.2A.1
Biology
7
BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2A.2 Plan and conduct investigations to determine how various
environmental factors (including temperature and pH) affect enzyme
activity and the rate of biochemical reactions.
Which statement best describes the enzyme represented in the graphs?
A. This enzyme works best at a temperature of 35°C and a pH of 8.
B. This enzyme works best at a temperature of 50°C and a pH of 12.
C. Temperature and pH have no effect on the action of this enzyme.
D. This enzyme works best at a temperature above 50°C and a pH above 12.
H.B.2A.2
A substance that accelerates the rate (speed) of a chemical reaction is called a(n) ______.
A. Catalyst
B. Lipid
C. Molecule
D. Element
H.B.2A.2*
Under what condition(s) can enzymes become less efficient?
A. Increase in pH
B. Decrease in pH
C. Decrease in temperature
D. All of the above
H.B.2A.2*
Biology
8
BCSD Item Bank
Which of the statements below best describes enzymes
A. are able to heat up molecules so that they can react.
B. always provide carbon dioxide for chemical reactions.
C. are biological catalysts that lower the activation energy of a
reaction.
D absorb excess heat so that reactions occur at low temperatures.
H.B.2A.2*
Reusable, complex proteins that promote chemical reactions within cells are called
A.
B.
C.
D.
enzymes
regulators
inhibitors
Steroids
H.B.2A.2*
The chemical processes that occur within a cell are affected by many factors. Optimum cell function occurs within
a narrow range of conditions. Which combination of factors identified below would curtail (affect) cell function?
I.
pH
II.
density
III.
salinity
IV.
temperature
A. I and II
B. I, II, and III
C. I and IV
D. I, III, IV
H.B.2A.2*
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2B Conceptual Understanding: Organisms and their parts are
made of cells. Cells are the structural units of life and have specialized
substructures that carry out the essential functions of life. Viruses
lack cellular organization and therefore cannot independently carry
out all of the essential functions of life.
H.B.2B.1 Develop and use models to explain how specialized
structures within cells (including the nucleus, chromosomes,
cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes and Golgi complex)
interact to produce, modify, and transport proteins. Models should
compare and contrast how prokaryotic cells meet the same life needs
as eukaryotic cells without similar structures.
Using a microscope, you are looking at what appears to be a cell, but you are unsure if it is a prokaryotic cell or an
eukaryotic cell. Which of the following structures is found in an eukaryotic cell but not in a prokaryotic cell?
A. A cell membrane.
B. the ability to reproduce.
C. the presence of nucleic acids.
D. the presence of a true nucleus.
H.B.2B.1
What organelle is used to process, package, and export proteins out of the cell?
A. mitochondria
B. endoplasmic reticulum
C. ribosome
D. golgi apparatus
H.B.2B.1
Which cell structure is found in plant and animal cells, contains DNA, and is known as the
“control center” of the cell?
A. Nucleus
B. Vacuole
C. Cytoplasm
D. Mitochondria
H.B.2B.1*
The organelle that moves (transports) proteins and other substances through the cell is the
A. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)
B. Golgi apparatus
C. Mitochondria
D. Cytoplasm
H.B.2B.1*
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
Refer to the illustration above. Which structure acts as a boundary between the outside environment and the inside
of the cell?
A. Structure 1
B. Structure 2
C. Structure 3
D. Structure 4
H.B.2B.1*
Consider the diagram of a eukaryote and a prokaryote in figure 7-2. According to cell
theory,
A.
B.
C.
D.
Both
Both
Both
Only
are
are
are
the
single cells that carry out the functions of life
examples of primitive cells that are not capable of reproduction
examples of cells with a nucleus to direct the functions of life
eukaryote has true cell structure to carry out the functions of life
H.B.2B.1*
Biology
11
BCSD Item Bank
What is the function of the organelle identified as #6 in figure 7-1 (it is mostly brown,
folded over, and is in the lower right part of the cell)?
A.
B.
C.
D.
movement
houses the cell’s DNA
contains the cells digestive enzymes
packages proteins for movement out of the cell
H.B.2B.1*
H.B.2B.2 Collect and interpret descriptive data on cell structure to
compare and contrast different types of cells (including prokaryotic
versus eukaryotic, and animal versus plant versus fungal).
Which organelles are present in plant cells but not in animal cells?
A. Cytoplasm and vacuoles
B. Golgi bodies and nucleus
C. Cell wall and chloroplast
D. Mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum
H.B.2B.2
If you have no other information about an organism other than the fact that it was single
celled, what could you conclude?
A. It is prokaryotic
B. It is eukaryotic
C. It could be either prokaryotic or eukaryotic
D. It is neither prokaryotic or eukaryotic
H.B.2B.2
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
Prokaryotes lack ______________.
A. A nucleus
B. Cytoplasm
C. A cell membrane
D. Genetic material
H.B.2B.2*
Eukaryotes contain __________.
A. A nucleus
B. Genetic material
C. Specialized organelles
D. All of the above
H.B.2B.2*
Which of the following organisms are eukaryotes?
A. Plants
B. Animals
C. Fungi
D. All of the above
H.B.2B.2*
All of the following are found in both plant and animal cells, except
A. a cell wall
B. a cell membrane
C. mitochondria
D. endoplasmic reticulum
Biology
13
BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2B.2*
H.B.2B.3
Obtain information to contrast the structure of viruses
from that of cells and to explain, in general, why viruses must use
living cells to reproduce.
H.B.2C Conceptual Understanding: Transport processes which move
materials into and out of the cell serve to maintain the homeostasis of
the cell.
H.B.2C.1
Develop and use models to exemplify how the cell
membrane serves to maintain homeostasis of the cell through both
active and passive transport processes.
Which letter indicates a cell structure that directly controls the movement of molecules into
and out of the cell?
A. A
B. B
C. C
D. D
H.B.2C.1
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from __________________.
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
A.
B.
C.
D.
An area of low concentration to an area of high concentration.
An area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
An area of equilibrium to an area of high concentration.
An area of equilibrium to an area of low concentration.
H.B.2C.1*
Which type of transport requires input of energy from the cell?
A. Diffusion
B. Osmosis
C. Active transport
D. Facilitated diffusion
H.B.2C.1*
What is a major difference between diffusion and facilitated diffusion?
A. diffusion moves water molecules and facilitated diffusion moves glucose
B. diffusion does not require energy and facilitated diffusion does
C. diffusion does not use proteins and facilitated diffusion does
D. diffusion moves particles from low to high concentration
H.B.2C.1*
All of
A.
B.
C.
D.
the following are types of passive transport EXCEPT
Osmosis
Diffusion
Endocytosis
Facilitated diffusion
H.B.2C.1*
Which of the following does not require energy?
A. active transport
B. endocytosis
C. diffusion
D. exocytosis
H.B.2C.1*
Molecules that are too large to be moved across a cell membrane can be removed from the
cell by
A. diffusion
B. exocytosis
C. endocytosis
D. osmosis
H.B.2C.1*
Diffusion is the movement of a substance
A. from an area of high concentration to an area of lower concentration.
B. From an area of low concentration to an area of higher concentration.
C. only through a lipid bilayer membrane
D. only in liquids
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2C.1*
H.B.2C.2 Ask scientific questions to define the problems that
organisms face in maintaining homeostasis within different
environments (including water of varying solute concentrations).
H.B.2C.3 Analyze and interpret data to explain the movement of
molecules (including water) across a membrane.
H.B.2D Conceptual Understanding: The cells of multicellular organisms
repeatedly divide to make more cells for growth and repair. During
embryonic development, a single cell gives rise to a complex,
multicellular organism through the processes of both cell division and
differentiation.
H.B.2D.1
Construct models to explain how the processes of cell
division and cell differentiation produce and maintain complex
multicellular organisms.
H.B.2D.2 Develop and use models to exemplify the changes that occur
in a cell during the cell cycle (including changes in cell size,
chromosomes, cell membrane/cell wall, and the number of cells
produced) and predict, based on the models, what might happen to a
cell that does not progress through the cycle correctly.
Which of the following processes occur only in S phase of the cell cycle?
A. Organelle replication
B. Cell growth
C. Chromosome segregation
D. DNA replication
H.B.2D.2
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
Which of the following does NOT happen during Interphase?
A. cell grows
B. DNA is copied
C. Spindle fibers form
D. Cell prepares to divide
H.B.2D.2*
The typical growth period of a cell occurs during which stage of the cell cycle?
A. G1 (gap 1) phase
B. Cytokinesis
C. Mitosis
D. Synthesis (S) phase
H.B.2D.2*
Which of the following occurs in telophase?
A. chromosomes move to opposite poles
B. chromosomes line up at the equator
C. chromosomes relax/ uncoil
D. chromosomes condense
H.B.2D.2*
During which phase do chromosomes line up at the equator of the cell?
A. Telophase
B. Interphase
C. Metaphase
D. Anaphase
H.B.2D.2*
Which of the following events does NOT occur during prophase?
A. spindle fibers form
B. chromosomes condense
C. nuclear membrane dissolves
D. spindle attaches each sister chromatid to a centriole
H.B.2D.2
A.
B.
C.
D.
Prophase
Metaphase
Anaphase
Telophase
H.B.2D.2*
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2D.3 Construct explanations for how the cell cycle is monitored by
check point systems and communicate possible consequences of the
continued cycling of abnormal cells
The graphic represents the different stages of the cell cycle. Specific genes within the DNA, called inhibitors, stop
the cell cycle in G1 phase. This process helps to keep the DNA unaltered and the cells dividing at the correct rate.
Certain chemicals in our environment may result in mutations of cells' DNA that in turn prevent the inhibitors from
halting the cell cycle.
If this happens, _______ may result.
A. cancer
B. cell death
C. deformities
D. birth defects
H.B.2D.3
The timing of the cell cycle in eukaryotic cells is believed to be controlled by a group of
closely related proteins known as
A. chromatids
B. cyclins
C. centromeres
D. centrioles
H.B.2D.3
A cell with damaged DNA can lead to cancer if it is allowed to divide. In the normally
functioning cell cycle such cells are prevented from division by:
A. the selectivity of kinetochores
B. the product of mutated p53 genes
C. the M checkpoint
D. cdc mutations
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2D.3
An example of an internal growth signal is a ________, while a __________ is an example of an external growth
signal.
A. Enzyme / checkpoint
B. Enzyme / growth factor
C. Checkpoint / growth factor
D. Growth factor / specific stimuli
H.B.2D.3*
Cancer cells may separate from the original tumor and use the ____________ system to invade other parts of the body.
A. digestive
B. circulatory
C. respiratory
D. reproductive
H.B.2D.3*
_______ tumors remain at one location in the body while ________ tumors are transported to other body parts.
A. Malignant / benign
B. Benign / malignant
C. Benign / stationary
D. Malignant / stationary
H.B.2D.3*
Under normal conditions, when cells are not in contact with other cells it will cause them to divide and when cells
are too closely packed it will cause them to stop dividing. These are examples of ______________ signals.
A. Internal
B. Chemical
C. Physical
D. Abnormal
H.B.2D.3*
A critical control point in which stop and go signals regulate the cell cycle is called a
A. Checkpoint
B. Critical point
C. Chemical point
D. None of the above
H.B.2D.3*
Normal cells become cancer cells when
A. Regulation of cell growth and division occurs.
B. Cells respond to control mechanisms.
C. Cells pass though G1
D. Cells do not respond to checkpoints.
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.2D.3*
H.B.2D.4 Construct scientific arguments to support the pros and cons
of biotechnological applications of stem cells using examples from
both plants and animals.
Stem cells may be similar to the cells of a developing embryo because both cell types can
A. produce only one type of cell.
B. help the brain to learn and remember things.
C. divide and differentiate.
D. cause Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
H.B.2D.4
Embryonic stem cells differentiate into various tissues. Research suggests that it may be
possible to replicate stem cells from the skin of adult mice, rather than having to use stem
cells from mouse embryos. In the future, human stem cells may be used to replace human
tissue damaged by diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
Why might the use of stem cells taken from a patient to replace damaged tissues decrease
the potential risk to a patient?
A. Retrieving donor stem cells from human embryos is difficult and controversial.
B. Stem cells taken from a donor and implanted into a patient can be rejected by
the patient's immune system.
C. Stem cells may not be able to differentiate into the correct cells and tissues
needed for the patient.
D. Stem cells from a patient will not be destroyed by the patient's own immune
system.
H.B.2D.4
All cells contain the same genetic information. Why can't cells other than stem cells
differentiate into various tissues?
A. As cells develop their genetic makeup changes.
B. Stem cells are the only cells that do not have an X or Y chromosome and can
therefore go into either a male or female.
C. Stem cells are the only cells that can be implanted.
D. As cells develop some genes are turned off permanently.
H.B.2D.4
H.B.3 The student will demonstrate the understanding that all
essential processes within organisms require energy which in most
ecosystems is ultimately derived from the Sun and transferred into
chemical energy by the photosynthetic organisms of that ecosystem.
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.3A Conceptual Understanding: Cells transform energy that
organisms need to perform essential life functions through a complex
sequence of reactions in which chemical energy is transferred from
one system of interacting molecules to another.
H.B.3A.1
Develop and use models to explain how chemical
reactions among ATP, ADP, and inorganic phosphate act to transfer
chemical energy within cells.
The energy to accomplish active transport comes from where?
A. energy from ions
B. energy stored in ATP within the cell
C. energy produced by the cell’s flagella or cilia moving
D. energy stored in ADP within the cell
H.B.3A.1
All of the following cellular activities require ATP except
A. sodium-potassium pump
B. diffusion of oxygen across the membrane
C. endocytosis
D. movement of an amoeba
H.B.3A.1
The formation of ATP from ADP and a phosphate requires energy.
A. True
B. False
H.B.3A.1
During the ATP-ADP cycle, energy is ____ to create ATP from ADP.
A. used
B. released
C. recycled
D. not necessary
H.B.3A.1*
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
Figure 8.3
Refer to Figure 8-3. Which diagram accurately labels and depicts the ATP-ADP cycle?
A. Figure A
B. Figure B
C. Figure C
D. Figure D
H.B.3A.1*
Which of the following is true of ATP
A. Contains five phosphate groups
B. Is essential for a cell to perform all the tasks necessary for life
C. Is found only in bacteria
D. All of the above
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.3A.1*
Look at Figure 8-1. All of the following are parts of an ADP molecule EXCEPT
A. Structure A.c.
B. Structure B.d.
C. Structure C
D. Structure D
H.B.3A.1*
H.B.3A.2 Develop and revise models to describe how photosynthesis
transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.
Carbon dioxide is required for which of the following processes in photosynthesis
A. the splitting of water
B. the production of ATP
C. the Calvin Cycle
D. the absorption of water
H.B.3A.2
What products of photosynthesis and reactants for respiration belong in the box to complete the cycle?
A.Hormones
B.Chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b
C.ATP and ADP
D.Glucose and oxygen
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.3A.2
A plant is provided adequate carbon dioxide and water, but no light. In this plant
A. photosynthesis will occur more slowly than in the light
B. the light independent reactions will continue to produce glucose
C. ATP and NADPH will be stored until sunlight becomes available
D. photosynthesis will not occur
H.B.3A.2
Which type of energy transformation occurs in photosynthesis?
A. heat to electrical
B. light to chemical
C. light to mechanical
D. chemical to mechanical
H.B.3A.2
Which of the following diagrams accurately represents the use of gases in both
cellular respiration and photosynthesis?
A.
C.
B.
D.
H.B.3A.2
The major atmospheric by-product of photosynthesis is
A. nitrogen
B. carbon dioxide
C. water
D. oxygen
H.B.3A.2*
The first step in photosynthesis is the
A. synthesis of water
Biology
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BCSD Item Bank
B. absorption of light energy
C. formation of ATP
D. production of oxygen
H.B.3A.2*
Which of the following equations best represents the process of photosynthesis?
A. C + O2 + H2O
→
CO2 + HOH
B. CO2 + H2O + light energy
→
C6H12O6 + O2
C. C + H2O + light energy
→
C6H12O6
D. C6H12O6 + light energy
→
CO2 + H2O
H.B.3A.2*
The energy in the Calvin cycle (dark reactions) for the production of sugar molecules during
the process of photosynthesis comes from,
A. ATP only
B. The Kerbs cycle
C. ATP and NADPH
D. Carbon dioxide
H.B.3A.2*
Refer
A.
B.
C.
D.
to the illustration above. Graph A demonstrates that the rate of photosynthesis
increases in response to increasing light intensity, but only to a certain point.
is unaffected by changes in light intensity.
increases indefinitely in response to increasing light intensity.
decreases in response to increasing light intensity.
H.B.3A.2*
H.B.3A.3 Construct scientific arguments to support claims that
chemical elements in the sugar molecules produced by photosynthesis
may interact with other elements to form amino acids, lipids, nucleic
acids or other large organic molecules.
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BCSD Item Bank
H.B.3A.4 Develop models of the major inputs and outputs of cellular
respiration (aerobic and anaerobic) to exemplify the chemical process
in which the bonds of food molecules are broken, the bonds of new
compounds are formed and a net transfer of energy results. Use the
models to explain common exercise phenomena (such as lactic acid
buildup, changes in breathing during and after exercise, cool down aft
The high concentration of protons in the inner mitochondrial space relative to the
mitochondrial matrix represents:
A. magnetic energy
B. kinetic energy
C. potential energy
D. photonic energy
H.B.3A.4
As protons (H+) flow through the ______ , energy is released and used to combine ADP
and inorganic phosphate to form ATP.
A. electron transport chain
B. outer mitochondrial membrane
C. cytochrome oxidase
D. ATP synthase
H.B.3A.4
What is the correct equation for aerobic respiration in humans?
A. glucose + oxygen  carbon dioxide and water
B. glucose + oxygen  carbon dioxide
C. glucose  carbon dioxide and water
D. D. H2O  H+ + OHH.B.3A.4
The process of cellular respiration
A. is necessary for organisms that are incapable of photosynthesis
B. breaks down food molecules to release stored energy
C. occurs before plants are able to carry out photosynthesis
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D. occurs only in animals.
H.B.3A.4
When oxygen is available to a cell the process of cellular respiration takes place in two
stages.
A. glycolysis and anaerobic respiration
B. stage 1 and stage 2 of photosynthesis
C. glycolysis and the aerobic respiration
D. oxidative respiration, then reductive respiration
H.B.3A.4*
C6 H12O6 + O2
CO2 + H2O + ATP
The process showing in the equation above begins in the cytoplasm of a cell and ends
A. cytoplasm
B. mitochondria
C. endoplasmic reticulum
D. lysosome
H.B.3A.4*
The name of the process that takes place when organic compounds are broken down in the
absence of oxygen is
A. anaerobic respiration
B. aerobic respiration
C. cellular respiration
D. all of the above
H.B.3A.4*
Which of the following processes releases the most ATP per molecule of glucose for
immediate cell use?
A. aerobic respiration
B. anaerobic respiration
C. chemosynthesis
D. photosynthesis
H.B.3A.4*
H.B.3A.5 Plan and conduct scientific investigations or computer
simulations to determine the relationship between variables that
affect the processes of fermentation and/or cellular respiration in
living organisms and interpret the data in terms of real-world
phenomena.
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In a laboratory setting the same amount of yeast, sugar (sucrose), and water are mixed
together by scientists. The scientist changes the temperature during the experiment and
the height of the foam produced was measured. The results of the experiment are depicted
below.
What would the dependent variable in this experiment?
A. Amount of yeast
B. Amount of water
C. Temperature
D. Height of the foam
H.B.3A.5
H.B.4 The student will demonstrate an understanding of the specific
mechanisms by which characteristics or traits are transferred from
one generation to the next via genes.
H.B.4A Conceptual Understanding: Each chromosome consists of a
single DNA molecule. Each gene on the chromosome is a particular
segment of DNA. The chemical structure of DNA provides a
mechanism that ensures that information is preserved and transferred
to subsequent generations.
H.B.4A.1 Develop and use models at different scales to explain the
relationship between DNA, genes, and chromosomes in coding the
instructions for characteristic traits transferred from parent to
offspring.
A scientist puts nucleotide chains of UUUUUU in a test tube under conditions allowing
protein synthesis. Soon the test tube is full of polypeptide chains composed of only the
amino acid phenylalanine. What does this experiment indicate?
A. The amino acid phenylalanine is composed of uracil.
B. UUU codes for the amino acid phenylalanine.
C. Protein synthesis malfunctions in test tubes.
D. Most proteins contain only one type of amino acid.
H.B.4A.1
5' ATCAGCGCTGGC 3'
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The above sequence of DNA is part of a gene. How many amino acids are coded for by this
segment?
A. 4
B. 8
C. 12
D. 20
H.B.4A.1
H.B.4A.2 Develop and use models to explain how genetic information
(DNA) is copied for transmission to subsequent generations of cells
(mitosis).
Which of the strands below is the complement to the segment GCATCCGA of a DNA molecule?
A. CCTAGGCT
B. GCATCCGA
C. CGUAGGCU
D. CGTAGGCT
H.B.4A.2
Semi-conservative replication of DNA refers to the idea that
A. DNA molecules need to unwind before duplication begins.
B. each new DNA molecule contains two new single RNA strands.
C. the two strands of DNA molecules run in opposite directions.
D. each half of the original DNA molecule is joined with a new complementary DNA strand.
H.B.4A.2
H.B.4B Conceptual Understanding: In order for information stored in
DNA to direct cellular processes, a gene needs to be transcribed from
DNA to RNA and then must be translated by the cellular machinery
into a protein or an RNA molecule. The protein and RNA products from
these processes determine cellular activities and the unique
characteristics of an individual. Modern techniques in biotechnology
can manipulate DNA to solve human problems.
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H.B.4B.1 Develop and use models to describe how the structure of
DNA determines the structure of resulting proteins or RNA molecules
that carry out the essential functions of life.
A DNA base sequence is shown below.
ACAGTGC
How would this base sequence be coded on mRNA?
A. TGTCACG
B. GUGACAU
C. UGUCACG
D. CACUGUA
A strand of mRNA containing the sequence AUG AAG CAC UGA could code for which of the
following amino acid sequences?
A. met-lys-his-stop
B. met-asn-gln-stop
C. ile-lys-his-stop
D. ile-asn-gln-stop
H.B.4B.1
During transcription the DNA base sequence is transcribed into a complimentary mRNA
sequence. A codon table like the one shown below lists the amino acids coded for by
particular triads of mRNA bases. A segment of DNA has undergone a mutation in which one
nucleotide has been changed. The original sequence was ACG and the new sequence is
ACA. Use the codon table to determine whether or not this mutation will cause a change in
the phenotype of the organism.
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A. Yes, the phenotype of the organism would change because a new amino acid will be
coded for.
B. Yes, the phenotype of the organism would change because any change in the DNA
sequence will cause a change in phenotype.
C. Even though the DNA sequence changed, the sequence still codes for the same amino
acid, so no change in phenotype will occur.
D. It is impossible to determine if a change in phenotype will occur using only the DNA
sequence.
H.B.4B.1
Transcription, which is a stage of gene expression, is the process by which genetic
information encoded in DNA is transferred to a (an)
A. mRNA molecule
B. DNA molecule
C. uracil molecule
D. rRNA molecule
H.B.4B.1*
During DNA replication, a complementary strand of DNA is made from each original DNA
strand. Thus, if a portion of the original strand is GGATCGA, then the new strand will be:
A. TTGCATG
B. GGATCGA
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C. CCTAGCT
D. AAGTATC
H.B.4B.1*
H.B.4B.2 Obtain, evaluate and communicate information on how
biotechnology (including gel electrophoresis, plasmid-based
transformation and DNA fingerprinting) may be used in the fields of
medicine, agriculture, and forensic science.
Genetic engineering has produced goats whose milk contains proteins that can be used as
medicines. This effect was produced by
A. mixing foreign genes into the milk.
B. injecting foreign genes into the goats' udders.
C. inserting foreign genes into fertilized goat eggs.
D. genetically modifying the nutritional needs of the goats' offspring.
H.B.4B.2
Genes for medically important proteins can be cloned and inserted into bacteria, as shown
in the diagram below.
Why can bacteria recognize a human gene and then produce a human protein?
A. DNA replication in bacteria and humans is the same.
B. Bacterial cells contain the same organelles as human cells.
C. The basic components of DNA are the same in humans and bacteria.
D. Bacterial cells and human cells contain the same kind of chromosomes
H.B.4B.2
In some people, the lack of a particular enzyme causes a disease. Scientists are attempting
to use bacteria to produce this enzyme for the treatment of people with the disease. Which
row in the chart below best describes the sequence of steps the scientists would most likely
follow?
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A. Row 1
B. Row 2
C. Row 3
D. Row 4
H.B.4B.2
DNA samples were collected from four children. The diagram below represents the results
of a procedure that separated the DNA in each sample.
The children that are most likely related to one another are:
A. A and B
B. A and C
C. C and D
D. B and D
H.B.4B.2
H.B.4C Conceptual Understanding: Sex cells are formed by a process
of cell division in which the number of chromosomes per cell is halved
after replication. With the exception of sex chromosomes, for each
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chromosome in the body cells of a multicellular organism, there is a
second similar, but not identical, chromosome. Although these pairs of
similar chromosomes can carry the same genes, they may have
slightly different alleles. During meiosis the pairs of similar
chromosomes may cross and trade pieces. One chromosome from
each pai r is randomly passed on to form sex cells resulting in a
multitude of possible genetic combinations. The cell produced during
fertilization has one set of chromosomes from each parent.
H.B.4C.1 Develop and use models of sex cell formation (meiosis) to
explain why the DNA of the daughter cells is different from the DNA of
the parent cell.
Which of the following statements correctly describes meiosis?
A. Cells divide only once during meiosis.
B. Meiosis does not occur in reproductive cells.
C. The cells produced at the end of meiosis are genetically identical to the parent cell.
D. The cells produced at the end of meiosis contain half the number of chromosomes as the
parent cell.
H.B.4C.1
Which statement concerning the reproductive cells in the diagram below is correct?
A. The cells are produced by mitosis and contain all the genetic information of the father.
B. If one of these cells fertilizes an egg, the offspring will be identical to the father.
C. Each of these cells contains only half the genetic information necessary for the formation
of an offspring.
D. An egg fertilized by one of these cells will develop into a female with the same
characteristics as the mother.
H.B.4C.1
During which phase of meiosis do homologous chromosomes line up next to one another along the equator?
A. Anaphase I
B. Metaphase I
C. Metaphase II
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D. Prophase II
H.B.4C.1*
Crossing-over occurs
A. during Prophase I
B. during Prophase II
C. during fertilization
D. at the centromere
H.B.4C.1*
Which is the best description of the events that take place during anaphase II?
A. Homologous chromosomes separate
B. Homologous chromosomes line up along equator
C. Replicated chromosomes become visible
D. Sister chromatids separate and migrate to opposite poles
H.B.4C.1*
Gametes are produced by the process of
A. Mitosis
B. Meiosis
C. Replication
D. Crossing-over
H.B.4C.1*
The first three phases of the cell cycle are collectively known as
A. interphase
B. telophase
C. mitosis
D. cellular respiration
H.B.4C.1*
Refer to the illustration above. The cell in diagram 3 is in
A. prophase
B. telophase
C. metaphase
D. anaphase
H.B.4C.1*
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Refer to the illustration above. The cell in diagram 4 is in
A. prophase
B. telophase
C. metaphase
D. anaphase
H.B.4C.1*
Refer to the illustration above. The correct order of the process of mitosis would be
A. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
B. 2, 4, 3, 1, 5
C. 5, 3, 4, 2, 1
D. 2, 3, 4, 5, 1
H.B.4C.1*
Gametes have
A.
B.
C.
D.
homologous chromosomes
twice the number of chromosomes found in body cells
two sets of chromosomes
one allele for each gene
H.B.4C.1*
Gametes are produced by the process of
A.
B.
C.
D.
mitosis
meiosis
crossing-over
replication
H.B.4C.1*
Unlike mitosis, meiosis results in the formation of
A. Two genetically identical cells
B. Four genetically different cells
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C. Four genetically identical cells
D. Two genetically different cells
H.B.4C.1*
Using the information you have learned about cell reproduction, answer to the question below about a cell with a
diploid number of 4 chromosomes. Select from the diagrams above, labeled A, B, C, D, and E, to answer the
question.
Which of the diagrams above depicts a cell at the end of meiosis II?
A.
B.
C.
D.
A
B
C
D
H.B.4C.1*
The difference between anaphase of mitosis and anaphase I of meiosis is that
A.
B.
C.
D.
The chromosomes line up at the equator in anaphase I
Centromeres do not exist in anaphase I
Chromatids do not separate at the centromere in anaphase I
Crossing- over occurs only in anaphase of mitosis
H.B.4C.1*
Which of the following does not provide new genetic combinations?
A. random fertilization
B. cytokinesis
C. independent assortment
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D. crossing-over
H.B.4C.1*
The exchange of segments of DNA between the members of a pair of chromosomes
A.
B.
C.
D.
ensures that variations within a species never occur
acts as a source of variations within a species
always produces genetic disorders
is called genetic crossing
H.B.4C.1*
H.B.4C.2
Analyze data on the variation of traits among individual
organisms within a population to explain patterns in the data in the
context of transmission of genetic information.
In fruit flies, the gene for red eyes (R) is dominant and the gene for sepia eyes (r) is
recessive. What are the possible combinations of genes in the offspring of two red-eyed
heterozygous flies (Rr)?
A. RR only
B. rr only
C. Rr and rr only
D. RR, Rr, and rr only
H.B.4C.2
Assume that brown eyes (B) are dominant over tan eyes (b) in guinea pigs. When a browneyed male is mated with a tan-eyed female, 50% of the litter has brown eyes and 50% has
tan eyes. What is the genotype of the female guinea pig?
A. BB
B. Bb
C. Bt
D. bb
H.B.4C.2
If a __________ allele is present, the trait will appear in the organism.
A. Dominant
B. Recessive
C. Double
D. Single
H.B.4C.2*
Huntington's disease causes a slow degeneration of the nervous system, beginning at about age fifty. Patients with
Huntington's disease lose control of their limbs and become forgetful. As the disease grows more severe, it
paralyzes and kills them. The disorder is dominant. Suppose that Bill's genotype is (Hh) and his wife Sharon is
(hh). What are the chances that his daughter, Grace, will also have Huntington's?
A. 0%
B. 25%
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C. 50%
D. 100%
H.B.4C.2*
Suppose that Bill's genotype is (Hh) and his wife Sharon is (hh). What are the chances that his daughter, Grace, will
also have Huntington's?
A. 0%
B. 25%
C. 50%
D. 100%
H.B.4C.2*
Refer to Figure 5. If individual III-2 marries a person with the same genotype as individual I-1, what is the chance
that one of their children will be afflicted with hemophilia?
A.
B.
C.
D.
0%
25%
50%
100%
H.B.4C.2*
Which of the following traits is controlled by multiple alleles in humans?
A. Blood type
B. Hemophilia
C. Sickle cell anemia
D. Male pattern baldness
H.B.4C.2*
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C.2
Colorblindness is a sex-linked trait and is more common in ____________ compared to ___________.
A. Adults / children
B. Children / adults
C. Females / males
D. Males / females
H.B.4C.2*
H.B.4C.3 Construct explanations for how meiosis followed by
fertilization ensures genetic variation among offspring within the
same family and genetic diversity within populations of sexually
reproducing organisms.
A scientist wants to change the DNA of a sexually reproducing organism and have the new
DNA present in every cell of the organism. In order to do this after fertilization, she would
change the DNA in which of the following?
A. zygote
B. placenta
C. testes of the father
D. ovaries of the mother
H.B.4C.3
The reduction of the chromosome number during meiosis is most important for —
A.
B.
C.
D.
allowing the growth of the cell without increasing the DNA content
keeping the amount of DNA in the cell at a minimum level
preventing the nucleus from becoming larger with each cell division
maintaining the chromosome number during sexual reproduction
H.B.4C.3
H.B.4D Conceptual Understanding: Imperfect transmission of genetic
information may have positive, negative, or no consequences to the
organism. DNA replication is tightly regulated and remarkably
accurate, but errors do occur and result in mutations which (rarely)
are a source of genetic variation.
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H.B.4D.1 Develop and use models to explain how mutations in DNA
that occur during replication (1) can affect the proteins that are
produced or the traits that result and (2) may or may not be inherited.
H.B.6 The student will demonstrate an understanding that ecosystems
are complex, interactive systems that include both biological
communities and physical components of the environment.
H.B.6A Conceptual Understanding: Ecosystems have carrying
capacities, which are limits to the numbers of organisms and
populations they can support. Limiting factors include the availability
of biotic and abiotic resources and challenges such as predation,
competition, and disease.
H.B.6A.1 Analyze and interpret data that depict changes in the abiotic
and biotic components of an ecosystem over time or space (such as
percent change, average change, correlation and proportionality) and
propose hypotheses about possible relationships between the changes
in the abiotic components and the biotic components of the
environment.
In a forest ecosystem, the abiotic factors include
A.
B.
C.
D.
Light, temperature, and plants
Animals, water, and plants
Water, soil, and temperature
Minerals, oxygen, and protists
H.B.6A.1
White-tailed deer live in a field near the school. In the summer grasses contribute to their
diet. A careless camper did not extinguish a campfire causing the field to be destroyed by
the fire. Due to the destruction of the grassy field what do you predict will happen to the
population of deer?
A. A decrease in population.
B. An increase in population.
C. No change to the population.
The deer switch to consuming rabbits.
H.B.6A.1
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The graph represents
A. a competitive relationship
B. a mutualistic relationship
C. a predator-prey relationship
D. a parasitic relationship
H.B.6A.1
The hare population increased in 1890 because
A. the lynx population increased from 1885-1889
B. the lynx population declined from 1885-1889
C. the lynx population stayed the same from 1885-1889
D. the hare population increased from 1885-1889
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H.B.6A.1
Which is a biotic factor that affects the size of a population in a specific ecosystem?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The
The
The
The
average temperature of the ecosystem
number and kinds of soil minerals in the ecosystem
number and kinds of predators in the ecosystem
concentration of oxygen in the ecosystem
H.B.6A.1
If greenhouse gas emissions and human overuse of land continue to increase, what would
be a likely long-term effect on ecosystems?
A. An increase in human population and increase in species diversity.
B. A decrease in human population and a decrease in species diversity.
C. No long term effects on human population or species diversity.
D. Temporary effects on human population and species diversity.
H.B.6A.1
Photosynthetic Rate
The graph below shows the effect of a factor on the photosynthetic rate of the green
marine alga Enterorpha linza. Which is most likely represented by factor X?
Factor X
A.
B.
C.
D.
Light intensity
Water concentration
Competition level
Substratum type
H.B.6A.1
H.B.6A.2 Use mathematical and computational thinking to support
claims that limiting factors affect the number of individuals that an
ecosystem can support.
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Mullet are local estuarine fish that move in schools and feed on plankton and plant matter. Natural predators of the
mullet include spotted sea trout, sharks, pelicans and dolphins. The graph below shows how the number of mullet in
an area has changed over time.
Based on the data, one student concludes that a new predator was introduced into the area during this time
period. Which of the following is a likely alternate explanation for the change in the mullet population?
A. mullet prey increased in the area
B. mullet parasites decreased in the area
C. the temperature of the area increased
D. the amount of aquatic plants in the area decreased
H.B.6A.2
Population
Yeast Population Over Twenty four Hours
|
12
Time in Hours
Yeast was added to a flask containing a water/nutrient mixture, and the yeast
population was monitored over a twenty four
hour period. The results are shown on the graph above.
The graph shows that after 16 hours, the yeast population —
A. could continue reproducing at an increasing rate
B. is about to increase dramatically in population
C. is close to the food source sustainability of its habitat
D. is beginning to feed on itself
H.B.6A.2
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H.B.6B Conceptual Understanding: Photosynthesis and cellular
respiration are important components of the carbon cycle, in which
carbon is exchanged between the biosphere, atmosphere, oceans, and
geosphere through chemical, physical, geological, and biological
processes.
H.B.6B.1 Develop and use models of the carbon cycle, which include
the interactions between photosynthesis, cellular respiration and
other processes that release carbon dioxide, to evaluate the effects of
increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide on natural and agricultural
ecosystems.
Complete burning of plant material returns carbon primarily to the
A. herbivores
B. atmosphere.
C. vegetation.
D. water.
H.B.6B.1
The process of cellular respiration is essential to the carbon cycle. Respiration takes
___________ out of the atmosphere and adds ___________ into the atmosphere.
A. water, oxygen
B. oxygen, carbon dioxide
C. carbon dioxide, oxygen
D. water, carbon dioxide
H.B.6B.1
Which of these statements is best illustrated by this diagram?
A. Animals under water eat plants.
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B. Land animals exhale oxygen into water.
C. Water-dwelling animals breathe carbon dioxide.
D. Plants take in carbon dioxide from air or water.
H.B.6B.1
H.B.6B.2 Analyze and interpret quantitative data to construct an
explanation for the effects of greenhouse gases (such as carbon
dioxide and methane) on the carbon cycle and global climate.
The graph below shows atmospheric carbon dioxide levels since the year 1880. Which of
the following conclusions can be drawn from this graph?
A. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are responsible for global temperature change.
B. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have been rising at about the same rate for the past
century.
C. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have remained the same over the past century.
D. Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have been rising at an increasingly higher rate as the
past century has progressed.
H.B.6B.2
The burning of fossil fuels will change the carbon cycle and global climate by
A. Increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
B. Decreasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
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C. Decreasing the amount of methane in the atmosphere
D. Increasing the amount of oxygen in the atmosphere
H.B.6B.2
Using the experimental setup below answer the following question.
The following is the procedure for a science experiment involving greenhouse gases.
Procedure:
1. Fill two beakers with 100 mL of soil.
2. Carefully light the candle with the matches.
3. Cautiously drop the candle into one of the beakers with soil.
4. Allow the candle burn for two – three minutes to be sure gases get released in the beaker.
5. Blow out the candle.
6. Remove the candle.
7. Quickly place the thermometers in the beakers
8. Cover the beakers with Ziploc Baggies as quickly as possible to be sure the gases from the candle don’t
escape.
9. Place both beakers under a light source.
10. Measure the temperature of each beaker every five minutes.
Results
Time (minutes)
0
5
10
15
20
25
Beaker 1 Temperature
(Experimental)
23 ˚C
32 ˚C
36 ˚C
38 ˚C
40 ˚C
41 ˚C
Beaker 2 Temperature
(Control)
23 ˚C
24 ˚C
25 ˚C
27 ˚C
27 ˚C
27 ˚C
What do these results show?
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A.
B.
C.
D.
The presence of greenhouse gases cause a decrease in temperature
The presence of greenhouse gases cause an increase in temperature
The presence of candle gas had no effect on temperature
Not information to draw conclusions from this data
H.B.6B.2
Using the experimental setup below answer the following question.
The following is the procedure for a science experiment involving greenhouse gases.
Procedure:
1. Fill two beakers with 100 mL of soil.
2. Carefully light the candle with the matches.
3. Cautiously drop the candle into one of the beakers with soil.
4. Allow the candle burn for two – three minutes to be sure gases get released in the beaker.
5. Blow out the candle.
6. Remove the candle.
7. Quickly place the thermometers in the beakers
8. Cover the beakers with Ziploc Baggies as quickly as possible to be sure the gases from the candle don’t
escape.
9. Place both beakers under a light source.
10. Measure the temperature of each beaker every five minutes.
Results
Time (minutes)
0
5
10
15
20
25
Beaker 1 Temperature
(Experimental)
23 ˚C
32 ˚C
36 ˚C
38 ˚C
40 ˚C
41 ˚C
Beaker 2 Temperature
(Control)
23 ˚C
24 ˚C
25 ˚C
27 ˚C
27 ˚C
27 ˚C
What is the name of the greenhouse gas emitted by burning the candle?
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A.
B.
C.
D.
Methane (CH4)
Nitrogen gas (N2)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Oxygen gas (O2)
H.B.6B.2
H.B.6C Conceptual Understanding: A complex set of interactions
within an ecosystem can keep its numbers and types of organisms
relatively stable over long periods of time. Fluctuations in conditions
can challenge the functioning of ecosystems in terms of resource and
habitat availability.
H.B.6C.1 Construct scientific arguments to support claims that the
changes in the biotic and abiotic components of various ecosystems
over time affect the ability of an ecosystem to maintain homeostasis.
Which is an example of a biotic factor that would limit the size of a deer herd?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Populations of predators
Server summer drought
Lack of oxygen at high altitudes
Heavy winter snowfalls
H.B.6C.1
A study was done on three different fish species living in a pond in New York State. The
influence of temperature on the growth rates of the fish populations is shown in the graph
below.
In this pond where these fish live, temperature is a
A. limiting factor
B. hereditary factor
C. source of ATP
D. source of solar energy
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H.B.6C.1
I. Kudzu is a vine important from Japan to the US in the 1800s. By the 1930s, farmers
were encouraged by the government to plant kudzu for erosion control. Now common
throughout the southeastern states, the vine grows at a staggering rate of 1 foot a day and
kills native species by blanketing vegetation with leaves and choking trees and shrubs by
encircling them with vines.
II. The brown marmorated stink bug is an agricultural pest, native of mainland China and
first observed in Pennsylvania in 1998. It is thought to have entered the US by stowing
away on packing crates of cargo ships. Piercing mouth parts cause serious damage to
apples, persimmons, peaches, cucumbers, grapes, and other crops. The bugs leave the
fruits with small, unsightly dark spots on their surfaces, resulting in unmarketable produce.
III. Around 1987, zebra mussels were discovered in the Great Lakes region where they
became a serious nuisance. Native to the Black and Caspian Seas of Eurasia, these
mollusks coat the undersides of docks and boats and clog pipes and plumbing. Because a
female zebra mussel can produce 20,000 to 1,000,000 eggs a year, this species is a serious
threat to native species.
What do kudzu, zebra mussels, and brown marmorated stink bugs have in
common?
A. Their presence results in increased biodiversity.
B. They were all unintentionally introduced into the US.
C. They are invasive species which have thrived in foreign ecosystems.
D. They promote competition among native species, resulting in balanced ecosystems.
H.B.6C.1
H.B.6D Conceptual Understanding: Sustaining biodiversity maintains
ecosystem functioning and productivity which are essential to
supporting and enhancing life on Earth. Humans depend on the living
world for the resources and other benefits provided by biodiversity.
Human activity can impact biodiversity.
Which type of organisms helps to reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide?
A. Carnivores
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B. Producers
C. Decomposers
D. Herbivores
H.B.6D
H.B.6D.1 Design solutions to reduce the impact of human activity on
the biodiversity of an ecosystem.
Human expansion often has a negative impact on the environment. However, these effects
can be minimized to achieve sustainability. Which these solutions does not describe an
action that will help meet this goal?
A. Allowing new construction only in areas that are not near fresh water supplies.
B. Fining companies that use nonrenewable resources to operate.
C. Monitoring environmental systems to learn how human activities affect them.
D. Growing large quantities of the same crop in a given field each year.
H.B.6D.1
Which of the following would most likely have a negative effect on the biodiversity of an
ecosystem?
A. Combustion of fossil fuels releasing nitrogen gasses and sulfur compounds in the
atmosphere.
B. Proper disposal of human and industrial waste.
C. Stricter control over transportation of plants or animals between state and national
borders.
D. Increase in the number of wind turbines.
H.B.6D.1
B-5: Biological evolution and the diversity of life.
B-5.1 Summarize the process of natural selection
The diagram below shows the effect of spraying a pesticide on a population of insects
over three generations. Which concept is represented in the diagram?
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A.
B.
C.
D.
survival of the fittest
dynamic equilibrium
succession
extinction
B-5.1
Average beak sizes of the seed-eating medium ground finch on one of the Galapagos
Islands are shown in the diagram below. During wet years, all types of seeds are abundant.
The medium ground finch prefers to eat small seeds that are easy to crush. However,
during droughts (dry years), when small seeds are not as abundant, they eat the larger
seeds on the island.
The most likely explanation for this variation in the beak size of the medium ground finch
is that
A. the birds acquired larger beaks so they could take advantage of the supply of
small seeds
B. the birds with smaller beaks mutated due to the drought so they produced more
offspring
C. different adaptations gave some birds a better chance for survival
D. the environment caused the birds to exercise their beaks
B-5.1
What is the survival value of a fish or frog species that lays hundreds of eggs each time it
reproduces compared to a species which lays only a single egg?
A. More eggs laid increases the likelihood that more males will be attracted to the
eggs for fertilization.
B. Single-egged laying species are generally more reproductively efficient and do
not need to lay multiple eggs.
C. More eggs laid increases the likelihood that more offspring will survive predation
or failed fertilization.
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D. There is no survival value for the species, only for the individual
B-5.1
According to the idea of natural selection, why are some individuals more likely than
others to survive and reproduce?
A. They acquire characteristics during their lifetime and pass them on to their offspring.
B. They do not pass on characteristics to their offspring that they acquired during their
lifetime.
C. They are better adapted to survive and reproduce more in their environment than
others.
D. They tend to produce fewer offspring than others in the same environment.
B-5.1
Study the picture of the birds. These birds are all types of birds found in the islands of Hawaii and they all
evolved from a common ancestor. How did these birds come to look different?
A. Some offspring were born with slight genetic differences from parents that proved to be an advantage in their
current environment.
B. Adult birds faced with a challenge grew different beaks and other traits to fit their environment.
C. Scientists most likely altered their DNA to help them survive.
D. Birds passed on acquired traits to offspring.
B-5.1*
Human activities can alter an ecosystem and bring about the extinction of a species. Such activities include any of
these except
A. hunting a species to extinction
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B. assuring a habitat remains unaltered.
C. introducing toxic compounds into food webs.
D. introducing a new species into an environment.
B-5.1*
Many species of organisms are found only on islands. Lemurs are found only on Madagascar and koalas only on
Australia. Which factor contributes MOST to this situation?
A. small land area
B. fewer predators
C. genetic isolation
D. limited food variety
B-5.1*
In a dense forest, some trees are very tall. The type of plant MOST LIKELY to survive underneath these trees is
one that
A. can store water.
B. produces many seeds.
C. needs little sunlight.
D. can withstand the cold.
B-5.1*
B-5.2 Explain how genetic processes result in the continuity of lifeforms over time.
Which observation could best be used as evidence that there is an evolutionary
relationship between two species?
A.
B.
C.
D.
They
They
They
They
have similar DNA base sequences.
have similar fur color.
inhabit the same geographic regions.
occupy the same niche.
B-5.2
How does sexual reproduction increase the chance of survival of a species?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Crossing over produces a variety of traits in offspring.
Protein synthesis results in a change in the genotypes of offspring.
Allele combinations produce identical traits in offspring.
Fertilization results in the offspring receiving traits from one parent.
B-5.2
In an environment that undergoes frequent change, species that reproduce sexually may have an advantage over
species that reproduce asexually because the sexually reproducing species produce
A.
B.
C.
D.
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more offspring in each generation.
identical offspring.
offspring with more genetic variation.
new species of offspring in each generation.
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B-5.2
Select the disadvantage of sexual reproduction described below.
A. Organisms that reproduce sexually do not produce much genetic variation
B. Sexual reproduction, unlike asexual reproduction, can rapidly produce too many
new offspring.
C. Sexual reproduction produces offspring that are equally vulnerable to the same
diseases, predators, and other environmental pressures.
D. Sexual reproduction requires two individuals, which may be difficult for
endangered species
B-5.2
The inheritance of genetic traits from parents to children follows predictable rules. Knowing that each parent
contributes genes equally to each child, what determines an inherited trait such as eye color?
A. Only the dominant genes.
B. Only the recessive genes.
C. The interaction between dominant and recessive genes.
D. The interaction between dominant and recessive genes does not determine inherited traits.
B-5.2*
Yeast cells reproduce quickly by budding. This is a form of ___________ reproduction so all of the yeast cells
____________.
A. sexual; vary
B. asexual; vary
C. asexual; are identical
D. sexual; differ from the parents
B-5.2*
Which of these statements MUST be true if two different plants are members of the same species?
A. They have the same number of chromosomes as one another.
B. They both produce flowers and seeds at the same time of year.
C. Their leaf shapes and patterns appear to be exactly the same.
D. They can produce offspring plants that also produce fertile seed.
B-5.2*
B-5.3 Explain how diversity within a species increases the chances of
its survival.
_____________________ within a species increases the likelihood that some members of
a species will survive when environmental conditions change.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Variation
Disjunction
Genetic drift
Asexual reproduction
B-5.3
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All of the genes of all members of a particular population make up the population’s
A.
B.
C.
D.
genotype
phenotype
gene pool
frequency
B-5.3
If a mutation introduces a new skin color in a lizard population, which factor might
determine whether the frequency (number of lizards) of the new skin color will increase?
A.
B.
C.
D.
How many other skin colors are present
How many phenotypes the population has
Whether the mutation was caused by nature or human intervention
Whether the mutation makes some lizards more fit for their environment
B-5.3
The diagram below represents four different species of bacteria.
Which statement is correct concerning the chances of survival for these species if there is a change in the
environment?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Species A has the best chance of survival because it has the most genetic diversity.
Species C has the best chance of survival because it has no gene mutations.
Neither species B nor species D will survive because they compete for the same resources.
None of the species will survive because bacteria reproduce asexually.
B-5.3
Farmer Brown grows corn for a living. One day, Farmer Green suggests to Farmer Brown that he should clone his
best corn plant in order to produce more ears of corn per plant. Farmer Brown is not sure about Farmer Green's
idea.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Why might Farmer Brown be hesitant to clone his corn?
Cloning the corn plants is difficult and expensive to accomplish.
The cloned corn would not have the same taste as the original plants.
Cloning eliminates the ability to sexually reproduce and provide genetic variability.
Cloned plants would have increased genetic variability as well as a shortened life expectancy.
B-5.3*
____________, harmful or helpful, is considered to be the source for new alleles and a main contributor to the
diversity of life on Earth.
A. Mitosis
B. Mutation
C. Transcription
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D. Translation
B-5.3*
B-5.4 Explain how genetic variability and environmental factors lead
to biological evolution.
Which factor may have played a role in the development of the polar bear in Alaska and the
brown bear in Russia into separate species?
A.
B.
C.
D.
geographic isolation
mitotic cell division
temporal isolation
artificial selection
B-5.4
Long periods of stability in the fossil record, followed by short periods of significant
evolutionary change, are explained by which model of evolution?
A. gradualism
B. evolution by genetic drift
C. punctuated equilibrium
B-5.4
How does genetic diversity help the process of natural selection and aid the survival
of a population?
A.
B.
C.
D.
There
There
There
There
are fewer mutations within the gene pool.
is a reduced predation of the population members.
is an increased chance for beneficial traits within the gene pool.
is less competition between the population members.
B-5.4
Use the following information to answer the question
Average beak sizes of the seed-eating medium ground finch on one of the Galapagos
Islands are shown in the diagram below. During wet years, all types of seeds are
abundant. The medium ground finch prefers to eat small seeds that are easy to crush.
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However, during droughts (dry years), when small seeds are not as abundant, they eat the
larger seeds on the island.
How might an extended period of drought influence the ground finch population?
A. The birds with smaller beaks would be more numerous.
B. The birds with larger beaks would be more numerous.
C. Drought decreases seed availability, but has no influence on the ground finch.
D. Drought increases seed availability, and all ground finches would be more numerous.
B-5.4
The dots represent a bacterial infection. Harry was very sick with this bacterial infection. The infection was treated
with antibiotics. Harry seemed to get well, but in a few weeks, he was sick again. How can this be explained using
natural selection?
A. The antibiotics were ineffective to this strain of bacteria.
B. The stronger, more resistant bacteria survived the antibiotics and reproduced.
C. The antibiotics did not kill the bacteria; it only forced them to be dormant.
D. Antibiotics will only kill a portion of the bacteria, no matter how much medicine Harry
takes.
B-5.4*
What process accounts for species diversity?
A. mitosis
B. meiosis
C. predation
D. symbiosis
B-5.4*
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B-5.5 Exemplify scientific evidence in the fields of anatomy,
embryology, biochemistry, and paleontology that underlies the theory
of biological evolution.
Which type of scientific evidence supports evolution by comparing genes and proteins?
A.
B.
C.
D.
fossil record
embryology
biochemistry
anatomy
B-5.5
The illustration below shows the structures of two unrelated species. Each have a similar
function but are different in structure. This is an example of
A.
B.
C.
D.
vestigial structures
cyclic structures
analogous structures
homologous structures
B-5.5
In the diagram below is a whale, the bones labeled “pelvis” and “femur” appear to be
useless in modern whales.
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Based on this evidence, it can be concluded that these structures
A. were present in a recent ancestor
B. have never served a purpose
C. prove that whales will soon walk on land
D. none of the above
B-5.5
The cactus, which grows in the American desert, and the euphorbia, which grows in the
African deserts, are not related, but have similar characteristics/structures because they
adapted to the same conditions in different places. This is an example of ____________
A.
B.
C.
D.
convergent evolution.
divergent evolution.
coevolution.
gradualism.
B-5.5
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The structures in the diagram above are referred to as ____________
A.
B.
C.
D.
analogous structures.
homologous structures.
vestigial structures.
convergent structures.
B-5.5
How might a vestigial organ provide clues to an animal’s evolutionary history?
A. It suggests that an organism’s ancestor once used that organ.
B. It suggests that the organism is in the process of evolving a new body structure.
C. It suggests that the organism is a result of the crossing of different species with different body structures.
D. It suggests that the structure is the result of an unsuccessful mutation.
B-5.5*
Scientists want to determine how closely related chimpanzees are to humans. Which data would give the MOST
accurate comparison?
A. their niches
B. their DNA sequences
C. their physical characteristics
D. their behavioral characteristics
B-5.5*
The diagram shows the leg bones of a (L -> R): Orangutan, dog, pig, cow, tapir, and horse. Most of the animals
have the same bones, although some are shaped differently and placed in different positions. What does this
suggest about mammals?
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A. That they shared a common ancestor.
B. That mammals are evolving to become more and more like one another.
C. That they developed their bone structure independently of one another.
D. That the shape of the bones has less to do with the environment pressures on the
animal, and more to do with what their relatives are.
B-5.5*
B-5.6 Summarize ways that scientists use data from a variety of
sources to investigate and critically analyze aspects of evolutionary
theory.
The following shows actual data comparing a mitochondrial DNA sequence from several species. What can we
conclude from the data below?
Chimp
Bonobo
Gorilla
Orangutan
Gibbon
ACACCATA
ACACCATA
CCACCACA
CCACCACA
CCACCATA
A. bonobos, gorillas, and gibbons form the most closely related grouping
B. there seems to be no relationship between these species
C. gorillas are most closely related to bonobos
D. chimps are more closely related to bonobos than they are to gorillas
B-5.6
Which of the following is an example of divergent evolution?
A. Two different species of birds that are both related to a common ancestor, have different
beaks and have adapted to eating different types of food.
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B. Large horses of today, evolved from smaller ancestors.
C. Dolphins and Sail Fish are very similar even though they have very different ancestral
lines.
D. As flowers develop longer tubes, insects develop longer mouthparts.
B-5.6
The similarity of the structures in questions 9 & 10 combined with data provided showing
similarities in nucleotide sequences between the
organisms would suggest that these organisms _____________
A.
B.
C.
D.
have a common ancestor.
all grow at different rates.
live for a long time.
evolved in response to one another.
B-5.6
The diagram below represents stages in embryonic development of eight organisms.
The similarities in embryonic development shown in the diagrams suggest
that these organisms _____
A.
B.
C.
D.
all undergo external development.
may have evolved from a common ancestor.
are all members of the same species.
have adaptation for the same environment as adults
B-5.6
The fossil evidence found in these sedimentary layers BEST implies that
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A. land plants evolved from algae.
B. land plants evolved after marine animals.
C. vertebrates and invertebrates evolved together.
D. land plants and land animals evolved at the same time.
B-5.6*
Biochemical analysis uses similarities in __________ as evidence for evolutionary relationships.
A. DNA sequences
B. bone structure
C. cellular architecture
D. homologous structures
B-5.6*
B-5.7 Use a phylogenetic tree to identify the evolutionary
relationships among different groups of organisms.
Based on the diagram, which of these is an appropriate conclusion? The diagram below
shows the evolutionary relationship among different organisms.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Lions evolved into housecats.
Sea lions and housecats are unrelated.
House cats and lions have a common ancestor.
Sea lions are as closely related to housecats as are lions.
B-5.7
Flowering plants are vascular plants. Based on the phylogenetic tree below, what other
members of the kingdom Plantae also have vascular tissue?
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A.
B.
C.
D.
B-5.7
ferns
quillworths
spikemosses
clubmosses
The evolutionary pathways of ten different species are represented in the diagram above. Which two species are the
most closely related?
A.
B.
C.
D.
C and D
E and I
G and J
A and F
B-5.7
Which phylogenetic tree below shows the green algae diverging first from the common ancestor?
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A.
B.
C.
D.
A
B
C
D
B-5.7
The human genome comprises about 3 x 109 base pairs of DNA, and no two humans, other than identical twins,
ever have been or will be genetically identical. Between any two humans, the amount of genetic variation is about
0.1 percent. What conclusion would be MOST appropriate about the genetic variation between humans and the
three apes as illustrated by the phylogenetic tree?
A. Genetic variation between all four organisms is non-existent.
B. The genetic variation between all four organisms is about the same.
C. The genetic variation between humans and orangutans is the greatest
D. Humans branched off from the other three animals due to great genetic variations.
B-5.7*
According to the cladogram below, which of these were the direct ancestors of the Kingdom Fungi?
A. Animalia
B. Archaebacteria
C. Plantae
D. Protista
B-5.7*
The cladogram of the kingdom Animalia shows the relationship of selected animals based on their shared
anatomical features. The black numbered squares represent features that are critical for forming each branch in the
animal kingdom. Square one represents a dorsal nerve cord, which means the animals in all the branches have a
dorsal nerve cord.
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Which statement BEST explains the genetics represented by the cladogram?
A. The DNA sequences vary for each type of vertebrate.
B. The DNA becomes more complex as we move from lamprey to human.
C. Both DNA sequences and amino acid sequences vary among the vertebrates.
D. There are no genetic similarities among the vertebrates in the cladogram.
B-5.7*
What statement COULD we make about the four species based on the phylogenetic tree?
A. Humans are in no way similar to the other three organisms.
B. There is no evidence of any connection between the four organisms.
C. The orangutan has nothing in common with the other three organisms.
D. The four have molecular similarities, but have their own unique traits.
B-5.7*
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