0653.B10.1.05 — Describe active immunity as defence against a pathogen by antibody production in the body: past paper questions
Real questions on 0653.b10.1.05 — describe active immunity as defence against a pathogen by antibody production in the body
The newest 6 of 6 written questions. Open one to see it on the real paper.
- 0653/43 · October/November 2025 · Q3b[2]
Some viruses and bacteria are pathogens. Platelets in blood help to defend against pathogens by clotting the blood. State two other body defences against pathogens.
See it on the paper → - 0653/43 · October/November 2025 · Q3d[2]
Vaccines are drugs used to help protect the body from bacterial infections. Describe how vaccinations protect the body from bacterial infection.
See it on the paper → - 0653/41 · May/June 2025 · Q3b(ii)[1]
The body can develop active immunity after infection by some bacteria. Describe what is meant by active immunity.
See it on the paper → - 0653/42 · May/June 2025 · Q3a(i)[2]
Describe how Fig. 3.1 shows evidence that the body of the person has gained active immunity to the pathogen.
See it on the paper → - 0653/42 · May/June 2025 · Q3a(ii)[1]
State one other way the body gains active immunity to a pathogen. (ii)
See it on the paper → - 0653/12 · October/November 2022 · Q7[1]
Which component produces antibodies?
See it on the paper →
What examiners said
The definition of active immunity in terms of antibody production was known by some candidates. Other candidates wrote lengthy answers, but these often did not include any reference to antibodies and so could not be credited.
— Examiner report, May/June 2025, 0653/41 Q3(b)(ii) (Cambridge)
Candidates were required to interpret a graph to identify evidence for active immunity. Many candidates found this demanding but usually gained partial credit for stating that more antibodies are produced when the body is infected a second time. Some candidates gained credit for stating that this antibody production takes less time. Some candidates also recognised that the remaining antibodies are...
— Examiner report, May/June 2025, 0653/42 Q3(a)(i) (Cambridge)
Few candidates recalled that active immunity can be gained through vaccination, although some gave descriptions of the process.
— Examiner report, May/June 2025, 0653/42 Q3(a)(ii) (Cambridge)
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