Describe the roles of the oviduct, uterus, and placenta in human reproduction and pregnancy.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.4 Sexual reproduction in humans · 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 oviduct is the site of fertilisation, where the sperm and egg nuclei fuse.
The uterus is the organ in which the fetus develops during pregnancy.
The placenta allows exchange of gases, nutrients and excretory products between fetal and maternal blood.
The placenta also acts as a barrier to pathogens and toxins, protecting the fetus.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms ‘oviduct’, ‘uterus’, ‘placenta’ and the specific functions listed in the mark scheme.
Show the sequence: fertilisation in the oviduct, development in the uterus, exchange and protection by the placenta.
Keep each point concise and separate with a line break or bullet.
Mention the barrier function of the placenta to earn the extra point.

Common mistakes

Confusing the oviduct with the uterus as the fertilisation site.
Omitting the barrier function of the placenta.
Using vague language such as ‘helps the baby grow’ instead of specific exchange functions.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

The oviduct is the site of fertilisation (where sperm and egg nuclei fuse)
The uterus is where the fetus develops (during pregnancy)
The placenta allows exchange of substances (gases / nutrients / excretory products) between fetal and maternal blood
The placenta acts as a barrier to pathogens / toxins (protecting the fetus)

Key terms in this question

oviduct · uterus · placenta