Explain how the stomach acts as an organ in the digestive system, referring to tissues and organ systems in your answer.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
The stomach is a muscular organ that contains several types of tissue: epithelial tissue lining the lumen, connective tissue that supports the organ, and smooth‑muscle tissue that contracts to churn food.
These tissues work together to carry out digestion. The epithelial cells secrete gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen, which are converted to pepsin by the acid. The smooth‑muscle tissue contracts to mix the food with the juices, forming chyme.
The stomach is part of the digestive system, which is an organ system. The digestive system is a group of organs that work together to break down food, absorb nutrients and expel waste.
Thus, the stomach functions as an organ by using its tissues to digest food, and it contributes to the larger digestive organ system.
These tissues work together to carry out digestion. The epithelial cells secrete gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen, which are converted to pepsin by the acid. The smooth‑muscle tissue contracts to mix the food with the juices, forming chyme.
The stomach is part of the digestive system, which is an organ system. The digestive system is a group of organs that work together to break down food, absorb nutrients and expel waste.
Thus, the stomach functions as an organ by using its tissues to digest food, and it contributes to the larger digestive organ system.
Examiner tips
- Use the word "tissue" and list at least two types; mention their specific roles. Show that the stomach’s actions (secretion, churning) are part of digestion. State that the digestive system is an organ system and explain its purpose. Keep the answer concise and use exam‑specific terminology.
Common mistakes
- Failing to name more than one tissue type. Describing the stomach as a single tissue or organ only. Omitting the link between the stomach’s function and the larger digestive system. Using vague terms like "helps with digestion" without specifying tissues or actions.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- The stomach is made up of / contains more than one type of tissue
- The tissues work together to perform a specific function (e.g. digestion / producing protease / churning food)
- The stomach is part of the digestive system, which is an organ system
- Organ systems are groups of organs that work together (to form organisms / to carry out a larger function)
Key terms in this question
tissue · organ · organ systems
Related
- Revision notes: Animal tissues, organs and organ systems →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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