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Topic 4: Natural selection and genetic modification

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What evidence supports human evolution, and how are organisms classified?

Describe the evidence for human evolution from fossils, stone tools and the pentadactyl limb, and how genetic analysis led to the three-domain classification rather than the five kingdoms.
A focused answer to Edexcel GCSE Biology 4.4 to 4.7, covering fossil and stone-tool evidence for human evolution, the pentadactyl limb as evidence of common ancestry, and the move from five kingdoms to three domains.
9 min answer →

How does evolution by natural selection work, and what evidence supports it?

Describe the work of Darwin and Wallace and explain the theory of evolution by natural selection, including how the emergence of resistant organisms such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria supports the theory.
A focused answer to Edexcel GCSE Biology 4.1B to 4.3, covering the work of Darwin and Wallace, the theory of evolution by natural selection, and how antibiotic-resistant bacteria provide evidence for it.
9 min answer →

How does genetic engineering work, and what are its benefits and risks?

Describe genetic engineering and its main stages, the advantages and disadvantages of producing GM organisms and of agricultural solutions to feeding a growing population, and evaluate the benefits and risks.
A focused answer to Edexcel GCSE Biology 4.10 to 4.14, covering the stages of genetic engineering, the production of GM organisms, agricultural solutions such as fertilisers and biological control, and the evaluation of benefits and risks.
10 min answer →

How do humans change species by selective breeding and tissue culture?

Explain selective breeding and its impact on food plants and domesticated animals, and describe the process of tissue culture and its advantages in research and plant breeding.
A focused answer to Edexcel GCSE Biology 4.8 and 4.9B, covering how selective breeding works and its impact on crops and livestock, and tissue culture and its uses in research and plant propagation.
9 min answer →