The human nervous system is divided into two main parts. Describe the roles of each part in coordinating a response to a stimulus.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 4.1 Nervous coordination and control in humans · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

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

Model answer (4 marks)

The CNS, made up of the brain and spinal cord, receives and processes information from the body and coordinates the overall response.
The PNS, consisting of nerves and ganglia outside the CNS, carries sensory impulses from receptors to the CNS and motor impulses from the CNS to effectors, allowing the body to react to the stimulus.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms CNS, PNS, brain, spinal cord, receptors, effectors. Show the flow: receptors → PNS → CNS → PNS → effectors. Mention that the CNS is the control centre and the PNS transmits impulses.
  • common_mistakes
  • :
  • Confusing the roles of CNS and PNS or omitting the motor part of the PNS. Using vague phrases like "body" instead of "receptors" or "effectors". Leaving out the fact that the CNS processes and coordinates information.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord
  2. The CNS processes / coordinates information / acts as the control centre
  3. The peripheral nervous system (PNS) carries impulses between the CNS and the rest of the body
  4. The PNS transmits impulses from receptors to the CNS (sensory) AND from the CNS to effectors (motor) to bring about a response

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