Exam Tips: Human Endocrine System

Give both systems in comparison questions: A question worth 4 marks asking you to "describe differences" expects at least 4 points, each making a statement about the nervous system AND the corresponding statement about the hormonal system. Never just describe one system.

Learn all six glands and their hormones: Examiners regularly ask "name the gland that produces hormone X" or "state the function of hormone Y." Memorise all six glands, their hormones, and functions listed in the knowledge organiser above.

Target organ = receptor match: When explaining why only specific organs respond, always reference receptor proteins. "The target organ has receptors that are complementary in shape to the hormone" earns marks. "The hormone goes to the right organ" does not.

The pituitary is NOT the brain: The pituitary gland is attached to the brain but is a separate structure. Do not say "the brain releases FSH" — say "the pituitary gland releases FSH." The hypothalamus (brain region) controls the pituitary through releasing factors.

Hormones travel via blood, not nerves: A common error is saying hormones travel along neurones. Hormones are chemicals secreted into the bloodstream and transported throughout the body in plasma. This is what makes them slower than nerve impulses.