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IGCSEBiology
Trial Class

Original practice · 5 questions · 16 marks · about 18 minutes

Deforestation and Habitat Destruction 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 why habitats are being destroyed and the biological consequences of habitat loss.

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 Both 4 marks Difficulty 3/5

    State four reasons why forests are being destroyed worldwide.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. To create farmland for crops or cattle grazing.
    2. Logging for timber and paper production.
    3. To build roads, towns, and infrastructure.
    4. Mining for minerals and resources beneath the forest.

  2. Question 2

    Paper 4 Extended 4 marks Difficulty 4/5

    Describe four negative effects of large-scale deforestation on the environment.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Loss of biodiversity: many species lose their habitat and may become extinct.
    2. Soil erosion: tree roots no longer hold soil in place; rain washes it away.
    3. Flooding: trees normally absorb rainfall; without them, water runs off quickly.
    4. Increased CO₂ in atmosphere: less photosynthesis and burning/decay of wood releases CO₂.

  3. Question 3

    Paper 4 Both 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Explain how deforestation can lead to the extinction of species.

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    1. Animals and plants lose their habitat: nowhere to live, feed, or breed.
    2. Specialised species that depend on the forest cannot survive elsewhere.
    3. Food chains are disrupted: loss of producers affects all consumers.

  4. Question 4

    Paper 2 Core 2 marks Difficulty 2/5

    Define the term "habitat".

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. The place where an organism lives.
    2. Where it finds food, shelter, and conditions needed for survival.

  5. Question 5

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Describe two methods of sustainable forestry that can help reduce the environmental impact of logging.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Replanting: for every tree cut down, a new one is planted (reforestation).
    2. Selective logging: only mature trees are cut, leaving younger ones to grow.
    3. Using sustainably sourced timber (certified by organisations like FSC).

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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