Enzymes, digestion and absorption. The 6-mark question in Jun 2024 was on this topic — exactly the type of extended question where most marks are lost.
Small intestine — all three enzymes, bile added, absorption of small molecules
Villi — finger-like projections increasing surface area for absorption
Large intestine — water absorbed, faeces formed
Bile — not an enzyme
Made in the liver, stored in the gall bladder, released into the small intestine
Neutralises the acid from the stomach (makes the small intestine alkaline)
Emulsifies fats — breaks large fat droplets into smaller ones, increasing surface area for lipase
Bile does NOT chemically digest fats — that is lipase's job
Exam questions — 4 questions · 11 marks total
⚡ This module includes extended questions (4–6 marks). These are where most marks are lost. Use the hint button if you are stuck. Write in full sentences. The AI will tell you exactly which mark scheme points you missed.
1 markEnzyme productsAQA 8461 style
What are the products of protein digestion?
A Glucose and fructose
B Fatty acids and glycerol
C Amino acids
D Maltose
2 marksBileAQA Jun 2023 P1 style
Describe two roles of bile in digestion. (2 marks)
+20 XP
6 marksExtended response — enzyme functionAQA Jun 2024 P1 Q2.3 — real question
A person has a condition where their pancreas does not work properly and produces very little digestive enzyme. Explain why this person would have difficulty digesting food and gaining body mass. (6 marks)
How to get Level 3 (5–6 marks): You must cover BOTH parts — digesting food AND gaining body mass. For each enzyme, name it, say what it digests, say what smaller molecules are produced, and explain how this links to body mass. Write in linked sentences, not a list.
+60 XP
2 marksSmall intestine adaptationsAQA Jun 2024 P1 Q2.4
Give two features of the small intestine that increase the rate of absorption of digested food. (2 marks)