Explain how meristem tissue is important for plant growth and describe how cells from meristem tissue become specialised.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (5 marks)
Meristem tissue contains undifferentiated stem cells that can divide by mitosis to produce new cells. The continuous cell division allows the plant to grow, increasing its mass or size. After division, cells undergo elongation, expanding and enlarging. Finally, the cells differentiate, becoming specialised for particular functions such as photosynthesis, transport or support.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact terms "undifferentiated stem cells", "mitosis", "cell elongation" and "cell differentiation".
- Show the sequence: division → elongation → differentiation.
- Keep the answer concise and directly linked to the marks given.
- Use bullet points or short sentences to cover each point.
Mark scheme (5 marks)
- Meristem tissue contains undifferentiated stem cells
- Cells in meristem tissue can divide (by mitosis) to produce new cells
- This division allows the plant to grow (increase in mass or size)
- Cell elongation occurs, allowing cells to expand and enlarge
- Cell differentiation occurs so that undifferentiated cells become specialised for their function
Key terms in this question
Related
- All Edexcel A-Level Biology A: Salters-Nuffield (9BN0) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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