Explain what is meant by the term 'genome' and describe how the genome of an organism is organised within its cells.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 7.1 The genome and gene expression · 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 genome is the complete set of genetic material in an organism, i.e. all its DNA.
It is organised into chromosomes.
Chromosomes are located in the cell nucleus.
Each chromosome contains many genes.

Examiner tips

Use the exact phrase ‘complete set of genetic material’ to gain the first point. Mention ‘chromosomes’ and ‘nucleus’ to cover the second and third points. State that chromosomes contain many genes for the final point. Keep the answer concise – one sentence per point.

Common mistakes

Writing ‘genome is the DNA of an organism’ instead of ‘complete set of genetic material’. Forgetting to mention the nucleus. Saying chromosomes are in the cytoplasm. Not stating that chromosomes contain many genes.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

The genome is the complete set of genetic material / all the DNA of an organism
The genome is organised into chromosomes
Chromosomes are found in the nucleus of the cell
Each chromosome is made up of / contains many genes

Key terms in this question

genome