2023 Biology WAEC (WASSCE) Essay Past Questions (Paper 2)

Question 1

(a) What is classification of living things?

Answer:

Classification of living things is the grouping/arrangement of organisms with similar characteristics based on structural/genetic/cellular/evolutionary trends for easy identification.

(b) State four ways each by which the following groups of organisms are of economic importance in their habitats.

(i) fungi;

Answer:

• causes various plant/and animal diseases
• acts as decomposers
• recycle nutrients
• bring about fermentationFermentation is a natural process through which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbs — such as starch and sugar — into alcohol or acids, anaerobically releasing energy. More in breweries
• used in baking industries
• serve as a source of food
• are used in pharmaceutical industries in the production of antibiotics, vitamins
• destroy various substances such as cloths, paper, wood and food

(ii) plants;

Answer:

• are involved in nutrient recycling
• purify the environment by reducing greenhouse effects
• provide shade/shelter
• provide food
• provide oxygen
• prevent erosion
• are sources of timber for building/contraction
• provide materials for pharmaceuticals or for the production of drugs

(c) Complete the table below by stating five major phyla of the Kingdom Animalia and give one example of each.

Answer: