Explain how cells are organised in a multicellular organism, starting from the cell level and ending at the organism level.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.1.1 Cell structure and organisation · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

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

Model answer (4 marks)

Cells of the same type group together to form a tissue.
Tissues of similar function combine to form an organ.
Different organs that work together make an organ system.
Organ systems work together to make up the whole organism.

Examiner tips

Use the exact sequence of cell → tissue → organ → organ system → organism.
Show each step with a brief example if possible to demonstrate understanding.
Use the word "group together" for tissues and "combine" for organs to match the mark scheme.
Keep the answer concise – 4 points, one sentence each.

Common mistakes

Mixing up the order of the levels (e.g., organ before tissue).
Using vague terms like "groups" instead of the specific terms tissue, organ, organ system.
Failing to mention all four levels, leaving out the organ system or organism level.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Cells of the same type group together to form a tissue
Different tissues working together form an organ
Different organs working together form an organ system
Organ systems work together to make up the whole organism

Key terms in this question

organ · organism