Explain how the body responds when blood glucose concentration falls below the normal level.

WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 2.5.2 Hormonal coordination · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

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

Model answer (4 marks)

The pancreas senses the drop in blood glucose.
The pancreas releases glucagon.
Glucagon signals the liver.
The liver breaks down glycogen to release glucose into the blood.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms ‘pancreas’, ‘glucagon’, ‘liver’, ‘glycogen’. Show the sequence: detection → release → action → result. Keep each point brief but complete.
Avoid extra details such as insulin or other hormones unless asked.

Common mistakes

Confusing glucagon with insulin. Omitting the liver as the target organ. Using vague phrases like ‘body reacts’ instead of specific actions.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

The pancreas detects the fall in blood glucose concentration
The pancreas releases / secretes glucagon
Glucagon acts on the liver
The liver converts glycogen into glucose / glycogen is broken down to release glucose into the blood

Key terms in this question

blood glucose concentration