CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Classification, biodiversity and conservation
A researcher isolates a novel virus from deep-sea sediments with a single-stranded RNA genome. Outline the system used to classify this virus. Explain why viruses are not placed in any of the three domains of life. Discuss the applicability of the biological, morphological, and ecological species concepts to this virus.
6 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 6 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Outline means: Give the main points briefly. Less detail than describe, but every key step has to be there. One short line per step, in order. The marks are for coverage, not depth.
Written by Markquill to follow the Cambridge International syllabus. Markquill is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.