Exam skills
What the paper asks you to do
- Describe a genetic-modification sequence
- Evaluate benefits and risks
- Interpret fermentation conditions
Continuity & environment
Biotechnology and genetic modification
Explain how microorganisms, enzymes and gene transfer are used to make useful biological products.5090 syllabus routeConcept · skill · exam language
What to know
Build the topic around four anchors.
- 01Fermentation
- 02Industrial enzyme use
- 03Genetic modification
- 04Benefits and risks of biotechnology
Common mistakes
Where marks disappear
- Saying bacteria consciously make products
- Leaving out vector or host steps
- Presenting an opinion without biological evidence
Structured practice
Answer these without looking back.
For each prompt, write the biological chain clearly enough that every mark-worthy link is visible.
- 01Outline production of human insulin by bacteria.
- 02Explain why fermenters are kept sterile.
- 03Evaluate one GM crop using balanced evidence.
Continue learning
Read the connected explanation.
A connected guide to recombinant products, monoclonal antibodies, nucleic-acid probes and therapeutic gene delivery.
This independent teaching resource follows the Cambridge O Level Biology 5090 syllabus direction and is not endorsed by Cambridge International Education.