CAPRICORN SOUTH
NATIONAL
SENIOR CERTIFICATE
GRADE 12
LIFE SCIENCES
02 FEBRUARY 2024
TOPIC TEST NO.1 DNA CODE OF LIFE
This question paper consists of 6 pages including
cover page
1
INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION
Read the following instructions carefully before answering the questions.
1. Answer ALL the questions.
2. Write ALL the answers in the ANSWER BOOK.
3. Start the answer to EACH question at the top of a NEW page.
4. Number the answers correctly according to the numbering system used in
this question paper.
5. Present your answers according to the instructions of each question.
6. ALL drawings should be done in pencil and labelled in blue or black ink.
7. Draw diagrams, tables or flow charts only when asked to do so.
8. The diagrams in this question paper are NOT necessarily drawn to scale.
9. Do NOT use graph paper.
10. You must use a non-programmable calculator, protractor and a compass
where necessary.
11. Write neatly and legibly.
2
Section A
Question 1
1.1 Various possible answers are provided. Choose the correct answer and write ONLY
the letter of the correct answer (1.1.1 to 1.1.3) e.g 1.1.1. A
1.1.1. Which of the following is not found in DNA?
A. Deoxyribose
B. Adenine
C. Thymine
D. Ribose
1.1.2. The structure and functions of the cell are controlled by…………………
A. DNA in the nucleus
B. DNA in the cytoplasm
C. Proteins in the cell
D. RNA in the nucleus
1.1.3. The phase during which DNA replication occur……………………
A. Telophase I
B. Interphase
C. Telophase II
D. Prophase 3 x 2 [6]
1.2. Give the correct biological term of the following descriptions. Write ONLY the term
next to the question 1.2.1. to 1.2.4 in your answer book.
1.2.1. Tangled network of chromosomes located in the nucleus
1.2.2. Sections of DNA that do not carry a code for proteins
1.2.3. Natural shape of a DNA molecule
1.2.4. A section of DNA molecule that codes for a specific characteristics 4 x 1 [4]
3
1.3. State whether each of the phrases in Column I applies to A only, B only,
Both A and B or None of the items in Column II
Column I Column II
1.3.1. Found as a A: Uracil
constituent of DNA B: Ribose
1.3.2. Process by which A: Translation
DNA makes mRNA B: Transcription
1.3.3. Nitrogenous base A: Adenine
found in DNA B: Uracil
1.3.4. The purine bases A: Adenine
B: Guanine
4 x 2 [8]
4
Section B
Question 2
2.1. The diagram below shows the structure of part of a DNA molecule.
2.1.1. Label parts numbered 1 to 4 (4)
2.1.2. What structure does Z represent (1)
2.1.3. Identify the molecules represented by X and Y. (2)
2.1.4. Name the specific type of sugar found in the structure (1)
5
2.1.5. State TWO functions of DNA (2)
2.1.6. Explain why DNA is able to play a role in transmission of hereditary
information. (2)
(12)
2.2. Study the diagram below showing the process of protein synthesis and answer the
following questions
2.2.1. Provide labels for structures A, B and D (3)
2.2.2. Name the bond involved in part C (1)
2.2.3. Which stage of protein synthesis takes place at F (1)
2.2.4. Identify organelle C (1)
2.2.5. Name and describe the stage of protein synthesis that takes place at
organelle C (7)
2.2.6. What is the collective name for the triplet of bases on tRNA molecule (1)
(14)
TOTAL FOR QUESTION 2= 26
6
Question 3
3.1. Read this passage. Then answer the questions.
Susan had found out that she was pregnant. When she told her by friend David, he
said that the child was not his. He accused Susan of cheating on him with his friend
Lennie. Susan said this was not true but David did not believe her. Susan had DNA
tests done after the baby was born to compare the baby’s DNA with the DNA of
Susan, David and Lennie. The DNA fingerprints show the results.
3.1.1. Explain how you can tell that Susan is the baby’s mother. (2)
3.1.2. From the DNA profiles, explain who you think is the biological father of
the baby (2)
3.1.3. Explain how DNA profiles can be used to prove the identity of the father
of a child. (2)
Total Question 3= (6)
Total for the paper:
[50]