Describe the role of the valves in the heart.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.4.2 The heart · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

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

Model answer (4 marks)

Valves prevent the backflow of blood.
Atrioventricular valves are located between the atria and the ventricles.
Semi‑lunar valves are located at the exits of the ventricles, in the aorta and pulmonary artery.
Valves open and close due to differences in blood pressure on either side.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terminology: atrioventricular and semi‑lunar. Mention the locations (between atria and ventricles; at the exits of the ventricles).
Show the cause of opening/closing – pressure differences – to hit the fourth point.

Common mistakes

Confusing the names of the valves (e.g., calling the aortic valve a semilunar valve).
Failing to specify the locations of the valves.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Valves prevent the backflow of blood
Atrioventricular valves are located between the atria and the ventricles
Semi-lunar valves are located at the exits of the ventricles / in the aorta and pulmonary artery
Valves open and close due to differences in blood pressure on either side

Key terms in this question

valves