Explain why stem cells are important in the production of specialised cells in the body.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
Stem cells are unspecialised cells that retain the capacity to divide by mitosis. The daughter cells produced can differentiate into specialised cell types, such as muscle, nerve or epithelial cells. Once a cell has specialised it loses the ability to revert to an unspecialised state and cannot produce a different cell type.
Examiner tips
- Use the term ‘unspecialised’ and ‘differentiate’ to show understanding of stem cell properties.
- Mention mitosis as the division process that produces the daughter cells.
- Explain that specialised cells are fixed in function and cannot become other cell types.
- Keep the answer concise – 4 marks can be earned with 4 clear points.
Common mistakes
- Confusing stem cells with mature cells; failing to state they are unspecialised.
- Omitting the role of mitosis in producing daughter cells.
- Claiming specialised cells can revert to stem cells – this is incorrect.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Stem cells are unspecialised
- Stem cells divide by mitosis
- Daughter cells produced can become specialised / differentiate into different cell types
- Once specialised, cells cannot revert to being unspecialised / cannot produce a different cell type
Key terms in this question
Related
- All Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →