Describe the roles of the testes, sperm ducts, and prostate gland in the male reproductive system.

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 testes produce sperm cells and secrete testosterone.
The sperm ducts are tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra.
The prostate gland secretes a fluid that mixes with sperm to form semen.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terminology: "testes", "sperm ducts", "prostate gland". Show the function of each organ in one clear sentence. Include both sperm production and hormone secretion for the testes. Mention the fluid contribution of the prostate to semen.
  • common_mistakes
  • :
  • Confusing the epididymis with the sperm ducts. Omitting the hormone‑secreting role of the testes. Failing to state that the prostate fluid combines with sperm to form semen.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. The testes produce sperm cells
  2. The testes produce testosterone
  3. The sperm ducts are tubes that carry / transfer sperm from the testes to the urethra
  4. The prostate gland secretes a fluid that combines with sperm to form semen

Key terms in this question

testes · sperm ducts · prostate gland

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