1.2.1 Use of apparatus and techniques

• How many key techniques are assessed in the practical endorsement for A-Level Biology?

  8
• One of the key techniques is the use of appropriate apparatus to record a range of measurements.

  True
• The use of microbiological aseptic techniques is linked to the practical skill of carrying out investigations and experiments.
• The practical endorsement in A-Level Biology also assesses students' ability to develop 4 practical skills.
• What practical skill is associated with the safe and ethical use of biological staining techniques?

  Make and record observations
• Which technique involves the use of colorimeters or spectrophotometers?

  Optical measurements
• The eighth key technique in the practical endorsement is the dissection of animal or plant sources.
• The practical skills and techniques assessed in the endorsement are essential for developing a strong foundation in biological experimentation.


  True
• One of the techniques involves the use of appropriate apparatus to record a range of measurements
• What are pipettes used for in biology experiments?

  Measure small liquid volumes
• What do spectrophotometers measure in biology experiments?

  Light absorbance or transmittance
• Match the technique with its description:

  Pipetting ↔️ Accurately measure liquid volumes

  Microscopy ↔️ Study small biological specimens

  Spectrophotometry ↔️ Quantify substances using light

  Aseptic Techniques ↔️ Handle microorganisms safely
• What type of light is used in microscopy to study small biological specimens?

  Light
• Microscopy is used to study biological specimens at high magnification.


  True
• Aseptic techniques are used to prevent contamination
• Balances must be calibrated regularly to ensure accurate mass measurements.

  True
• Centrifuges separate mixtures by density
• What is the primary goal of aseptic techniques in biology experiments?

  Prevent contamination
• Qualitative data includes numerical measurements such as time and temperature.

  False
• Tables are used to organize quantitative data in a structured format
• Accurate and thorough data recording is essential for analyzing experimental results in biology.

  True
• Qualitative analysis examines descriptive observations to identify relationships and potential explanations
• What is one suggestion for improving an experimental design in biology?

  Identify limitations
• Careful data analysis and thoughtful conclusions are crucial for advancing scientific knowledge in biology.


  True
• Match the technique with its corresponding skill:

  Use of appropriate apparatus ↔️ Follow written instructions

  Microbiological aseptic techniques ↔️ Carry out investigations

  Chromatography techniques ↔️ Analyze experimental results

  Safe use of biological staining ↔️ Make and record observations
• How many key techniques are assessed in the practical endorsement?

  8
• Microbiological aseptic techniques are one of the key techniques assessed in the practical endorsement.


  True
• Balances are used to precisely measure the mass
• Aseptic techniques are essential for preventing contamination in microbiology experiments.


  True
• Pipetting is essential for quantitative experiments as it involves measuring and transferring small volumes of liquids
• What is the purpose of pipettes in biology experiments?

  Measure small liquid volumes
• What does spectrophotometry measure in biology experiments?

  Light absorbance or transmittance
• What safety precaution should be taken when using pipettes?

  Use pipette bulb
• Why is it important to clean microscope lenses after each use?

  To maintain clarity
• Spectrophotometers require proper cuvette handling for accurate light measurements.


  True
• Steps in recording observations during biology experiments

  1️⃣ Collect quantitative data

  2️⃣ Record qualitative data

  3️⃣ Create visual data
• What type of data includes drawings, diagrams, or photographs of specimens?

  Visual data
• What is the purpose of written descriptions in recording observations?

  Provide qualitative observations
• What does quantitative analysis help identify in biology experiments?

  Trends in numerical data
• Evaluating hypotheses involves determining whether experimental results support or refute the original hypothesis.


  True