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IGCSEBiology
Trial Class

Original practice · 5 questions · 15 marks · about 17 minutes

Cloning and Stem Cells Practice Questions

Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.

These questions test your understanding of cloning techniques, the uses of stem cells, and the ethical debates surrounding these technologies.

Before you open the answers

  • Attempt every question without notes.
  • Show working for calculations and write complete biological statements.
  • Use the suggested time as a guide, not a strict limit on the first attempt.

These are original practice questions. They do not reproduce an official Cambridge paper or official mark scheme.

  1. Question 1

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Define cloning and explain why cloned organisms are genetically identical.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Cloning produces genetically identical copies of an organism (or cells).
    2. No fusion of gametes / no sexual reproduction is involved.
    3. All cells are produced by mitosis from a single parent: so they share the same DNA.

  2. Question 2

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Describe how plants can be cloned using tissue culture (micropropagation).

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    1. Small pieces of plant tissue (explants) are taken from a parent plant.
    2. They are grown on sterile nutrient agar containing plant hormones.
    3. The cells divide by mitosis and develop into new, genetically identical plantlets.

  3. Question 3

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 4/5

    Explain the difference between embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.

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    1. Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into any cell type (they are pluripotent).
    2. Adult stem cells can only differentiate into a limited range of cell types.
    3. Embryonic stem cells are taken from early embryos; adult stem cells are found in some tissues (e.g. Bone marrow).

  4. Question 4

    Paper 2 Core 2 marks Difficulty 2/5

    State one use of stem cells in medicine.

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    1. Treating diseases by replacing damaged cells: e.g. Bone marrow transplant for leukaemia.
    2. Potential to grow replacement tissues or organs.

  5. Question 5

    Paper 4 Extended 4 marks Difficulty 5/5

    Discuss two arguments for and two arguments against the use of embryonic stem cells in research.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. For: could lead to cures for currently incurable diseases (Parkinson's, diabetes).
    2. For: embryos used are typically from IVF surplus that would otherwise be discarded.
    3. Against: embryos are destroyed: some believe life begins at fertilisation and this is morally wrong.
    4. Against: risk of rejection if stem cells are not from the patient; risk of uncontrolled cell growth (tumours).

Mark the set consistently

Award a point only when the idea is clearly present in the written answer. Correct any missed point in a complete sentence, then test the same skill on a different question several days later.

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