Anatomy and physiology — AS & A Level Physical Education (9396) questions by topic
Anatomy and physiology questions ask you to state synovial joint types in the spine and their movements, define movement terms such as extension and elevation, describe the energy system producing lactic acid, and analyse a volleyball serve from a diagram, worth up to 30 marks.
Describe, explain, identify, state and suggest demand precise anatomical and physiological terminology, including correct units where a value is asked for. Drawn from 11 questions set in 2023 papers, this page's instant marking is well suited to this kind of factual precision, checking whether a named joint, muscle or unit matches the mark scheme exactly rather than a near-correct term that examiners cannot credit.
What examiners look for
- A recurring criticism is naming joint or muscle types not actually found in the spine or region the question asks about.
- Examiners note that correct units were needed with numerical responses, and some candidates described blood flow through the heart when a different process was asked for.
- Reports flag candidates describing antagonist muscles only, when both muscle functions were required.
- Strong answers gave correct typical values for stroke volume and cardiac output during intense exercise, and described other specific factors that raise blood pressure during exercise.
May–June 2023, Paper 11
The diagram shows some structures and features of the elbow joint. Labelled on the diagram are the humerus, the joint capsule (with synovial fluid) and the ulna, together with…
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 12
State the two different types of synovial joint located in the spine. For each type of synovial joint in the spine, identify a type of movement that is possible.
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 13
The diagram shows a performance of a volleyball serve, moving from position A (the performer steps forward, the right arm drawn back behind the head ready to strike, with the ball…
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 31
Describe the energy system that creates lactic acid as a by-product.
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 32
Describe how endothermic reactions and exothermic reactions are used in the breakdown and resynthesis of ATP.
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 33
Describe the energy system that creates lactic acid as a by-product.
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 11
State the meaning of the following movement terms: (extension) moving upper arm downwards/backwards (elevation)
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 12
Fig. 1.1 shows three positions during a two-handed overhead throw. Using your knowledge of muscles and joints, complete the table. Joint Movement Agonist Type of contraction…
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 13
State the meaning of the following movement terms: (extension) moving upper arm downwards/backwards (elevation)
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 32
Describe each of the following stages of the aerobic system: • aerobic glycolysis • electron transport chain.
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 33
Describe the stage of the aerobic system in which hydrogen atoms are split.
Answer this question and get it marked →