Maybe you’re gearing up for your prelim exams, only to realise… Module 1 Biology Questions has got you in a total blur.
Or maybe you’re chasing full marks but you’re consistently falling one short. Don’t stress—I’ve got you 💪
After years of teaching Biology, I’ve helped hundreds of students turn cell confusion into exam-crushing confidence. Now it’s your turn!
I’ve put together 20 juicy questions to sharpen your understanding, and I’ve even broken down the NESA mark allocations so you know exactly how to nail every part of the question ✅
Plus, I’ll highlight common pitfalls and show you how to dodge them like a pro.
Need some additional support tackling Module 1: Cells as the Basis of Life? Let our experienced HSC Biology Tutors support your studies at our Campuses in Hornsby, Chatswood or the Hills, at your home or online.
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How Our Biology Module 1 Practice Questions Work
Cell Structure
Cell Function
Worked Solutions
How Our Biology Module 1 Practice Questions Work
This compilation of HSC Biology Module 1 practice questions will include:
- Difficulty ratings for each question
- Bands 2-3: ⭐
- Bands 4-5: ⭐⭐
- Band 6: ⭐⭐⭐
- Band 6 Challenge: ⭐⭐⭐ 🔥
- The relevant syllabus dot point (so you can do some content-specific revision or practice)
- A ‘hints’ section complete with a check-list to support you in answering the questions
- Full worked solutions
(And of course, be sure to read the full thing because these are packed with insider tips and tricks to acing the questions)
Learn more about the content of this module with our Complete Guide to Biology Year 11 Module 1: Cells as the Basis of Life!
Cell Structure
Inquiry Question: What distinguishes one cell from another? (Cell Structure)
Question 1 ⭐️
Which of the following is found in eukaryotic cells but not in prokaryotic cells? (1 mark)
a) Nucleus
b) Ribosomes
c) Cell membrane
d) Cytoplasm
Question 2 ⭐️
Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis in a cell? (1 mark)
a) Ribosomes
b) Mitochondria
c) Nucleus
d) Endoplasmic reticulum
Question 3 ⭐️⭐️
Compare the structure of a plant cell and an animal cell, listing at least two key differences. (3 marks)
Question 4 ⭐️⭐️
Explain the role of the Golgi apparatus in protein processing and secretion. (3 marks)
Question 5 ⭐️⭐️
Describe the structure and function of the mitochondria. How does this organelle contribute to cellular energy production? (4 marks)
Question 6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Discuss how the structure of the plasma membrane supports its function in controlling the movement of substances into and out of the cell. (5 marks)
Question 7 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Compare and contrast the different types of microscopes (light microscope, electron microscope, and scanning electron microscope). Discuss their structures, functions, and the types of specimens each is best suited for. (6 marks)
Question 8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Describe the role of the cytoskeleton in maintaining cell shape and assisting in intracellular transport. (4 marks)
Question 9 ⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
Explain how the structure of chloroplasts supports their function in photosynthesis. Include details about thylakoid membranes and stroma. (6 marks)
Question 10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
Discuss the structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and explain how these differences relate to their functions and complexity. (6 marks)
Cell Function
Inquiry Question: How do cells coordinate activities within their internal environment and the external environment?
Question 11 ⭐️
What is the main function of the plasma membrane in cells? (1 mark)
a) To provide structural support
b) To control the movement of substances into and out of the cell
c) To store genetic material
d) To generate energy
Question 12 ⭐️
Which process involves the movement of water from a region of high concentration to low concentration through a semipermeable membrane? (1 mark)
a) Active transport
b) Diffusion
c) Osmosis
d) Endocytosis
Question 13 ⭐️⭐️
Describe the process of active transport and explain why it requires energy. (3 marks)
Question 14 ⭐️⭐️
What is the role of the endoplasmic reticulum in cellular function? How do the rough and smooth types differ? (4 marks)
Question 15 ⭐️⭐️
Explain the concept of the surface-area-to-volume ratio and how it affects the efficiency of material exchange in cells. (3 marks)
Question 16 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Explain how osmosis and diffusion contribute to the movement of water and solutes in and out of the cell. Include the factors that influence their rates. (5 marks)
Question 17 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Discuss the role of active transport, endocytosis, and exocytosis in maintaining cellular homeostasis. (5 marks)
Question 18 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Describe the process of enzyme action in cells, including the role of substrates, active sites, and activation energy. (5 marks)
Question 19 ⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
Outline the process of glycolysis and explain its importance in cellular respiration. (6 marks)
Question 20 ⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
Compare the light-dependent and light-independent reactions of photosynthesis, detailing how they are interdependent in the overall process of energy production. (6 marks)
Worked Solutions
And that wraps up our 20 practice questions for Year 11 Biology Module 1: Cells as the Basis of Life – happy studying!
Aiming for a Band 6 in HSC Biology? Read this ultimate guide!
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Kat Jankiewicz is an expert HSC Biology Class Teacher and Tutor at Art of Smart Education, with over 3 years experience. She completed her HSC in 2020, scoring a Band 6 in Biology. She is now passionate about helping her own students excel in this subject, and her enthusiasm for the sciences led her to pursue a double degree in Science and French at the University of Sydney.
