Describe the functions of the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes and cell membrane in a eukaryotic cell.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 2.2 Cell structure · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

The nucleus contains the genetic material and controls the activities of the cell.
Mitochondria are the site of respiration.
Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis.
The cell membrane is a partially permeable barrier that controls what enters and leaves the cell.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact phrases from the mark scheme – e.g. "contains the genetic material" and "controls the activities of the cell". Keep each point short and separate, matching the four marks. Mention the key function of each organelle as listed.
  • common_mistakes
  • :
  • Using vague terms such as "cell control" instead of "controls the activities of the cell". Adding extra information (e.g. DNA replication) that is not required for the 4‑mark answer.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. The nucleus contains the genetic material / controls the activities of the cell
  2. Mitochondria are the site of respiration
  3. Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis
  4. The cell membrane is a partially permeable barrier that controls / regulates what enters and leaves the cell

Key terms in this question

nucleus · mitochondria · ribosomes · cell membrane

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