This exam tips covers Exam Tips: Contraception within Contraception for GCSE Biology. Topic 9: Contraception It is section 12 of 12 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Topic position
Section 12 of 12
Practice
15 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
Exam Tips: Contraception
Mechanism, not just name: Never just write "the pill prevents pregnancy." Always state the mechanism: oestrogen inhibits FSH, preventing egg maturation. One sentence on the mechanism is worth 2-3 marks.
Condom = STI protection: In any compare/evaluate question, always mention that condoms uniquely protect against STIs. This point alone can distinguish a grade 6 answer from a grade 8 answer.
Do not confuse oestrogen and progesterone roles: In the pill, oestrogen primarily inhibits FSH (prevents ovulation); progesterone primarily thickens cervical mucus. They are not interchangeable in exam answers.
Evaluate questions need balance: When asked to evaluate a method, give at least one advantage and one disadvantage, and reach a conclusion. A one-sided answer cannot score full marks on an evaluate question.
Know the types: Three categories — hormonal (pill, implant, injection, patch), barrier (condom, diaphragm), surgical (sterilisation). Being able to categorise methods quickly helps in structuring compare/contrast answers.