2023 Biology Practical Specimen Questions and Answers. A guide for Teachers And Candidates

Are you a teacher or candidate seeking help on how to go about the 2023 waec biology practical? Here is the right place for you. Below is the content of this post:

• Objectives of biology practical specimen;

• Provided Biology Practical Specimens;

• Likely Questions and Answers for 2023 Biology practical examination.

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Objectives of Biology Specimen for
WAEC 2023

It is important you take time to study this Objective as it guides you on what to expect from each provided specimen.
The biology specimen for WAEC 2023 plays a vital role in assessing the practical knowledge and understanding of candidates. These
specimens are carefully selected to cover various aspects of the biology curriculum and provide candidates with hands-on experience. In
this article, we will explore the different specimens for the WAEC 2023 biology examination and their significance. By understanding the characteristics and practical applications of each specimen, candidates can better prepare for the examination and enhance their overall performance.

Specimen A: Mature fresh eggs of catfish.

Mature fresh eggs of catfish are one of the specimens included in the WAEC 2023 biology examination. These eggs serve as a representative sample to study the reproductive system of fish. They are usually obtained from mature female catfish during their breeding season. The eggs are spherical and have a gel-like outer covering.

Practical Applications
Studying the mature fresh eggs of catfish allows
The candidates are to:
Identify the different stages of embryonic development.
Understand the process of fertilization and embryogenesis.
Learn about the adaptations and reproductive strategies of fish.

Summary of Specimen A

Class: pisces
Type of fertilization: external

Specimen B: mature fresh egg of domestic fowl (with shell intact)

The fresh egg of a domestic fowl is another important specimen provided in the biology examination. This specimen represents the reproductive system of birds. It consists of an outer shell, albumen (egg white), and a yolk containing various nutrients.

Practical Applications
Studying the fresh egg of a domestic fowl enables candidates to:
Examine the external and internal structures of an egg.
Understand the process of egg formation and ovulation in birds.
Investigate the nutritional composition of eggs and their importance in avian development.
Learn about the adaptations and
reproductive strategies of birds.

Class: Aves/birds
Fertilization: internal
Reproductive method: oviparity

SPECIMEN C: Picture/model/chart of uterus containing a foetus

The picture, model, or chart of a uterus containing a foetus provides candidates with a visual representation of the female reproductive system and the stages of pregnancy. This specimen helps in understanding the development of a foetus within the uterus.

Practical Applications
By studying the uterus containing a foetus, candidates can:
Identify the different parts and structures of the female reproductive system.
Learn about the stages of embryonic
development and the formation of organs.
Understand the concept of gestation and the changes that occur during pregnancy.

Summary

Class: Mammalia

Type of fertilization: internal

Method of reproduction: viviparity

Specimen D: Longitudinal section of ovary of pride of Barbados flower

The longitudinal section of the ovary of a pride of Barbados flower is included to study the reproductive structures of plants. This specimen
provides insights into the structure and function of the ovary.

Practical Applications
By examining the longitudinal section of the ovary, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of the flower’s reproductive system.
Understand the process of pollination and fertilization in plants.
Learn about the development of seeds and fruits.

Specimen E: Leaf of pride of
Barbados flower

The leaf of the pride of Barbados flower is a significant specimen that allows candidates to study the anatomy and characteristics of plant
leaves. This specimen represents the diversity of leaf structures and adaptations.

Practical Applications
By examining the leaf of the pride of Barbados flower, candidates can:
Identify different leaf structures and
arrangements.
Study the adaptations of leaves for
photosynthesis and transpiration.
Understand the role of leaves in gas
exchange and nutrient transport.

Specimen F: Panicum plant/Guinea grass (whole plant)

The Panicum plant, also known as Guinea grass, is a common specimen provided for the biology examination. This specimen represents a grass
plant and helps candidates understand the features and adaptations of grasses.

Practical Applications
By studying the Panicum plant, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of a grass plant, such as roots, stems, leaves, and flowers.
Study the reproductive strategies and life cycle of grasses.
Understand the ecological importance of grasses and their uses in agriculture and animal husbandry.

Specimen G: Cocoyam plant/Caladium plant (whole plant)

The whole plant of the cocoyam or Caladium is included as a specimen to explore the characteristics of a typical monocot plant. This specimen showcases the features of a leafy,
tuberous plant.

Practical Applications
By examining the cocoyam or Caladium plant, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of a monocot plant, such as roots, stems, leaves, and flowers.
Study the adaptations of monocots for
survival in various environments.
Understand the nutritional value and
cultivation of cocoyam plants.

Specimen H: Corm of cocoyam

The corm of cocoyam is a specialized part of the cocoyam plant that serves as a storage organ.
This specimen represents the underground structure and food storage adaptation of certain plants.

Practical Applications
By studying the corm of cocoyam, candidates can:
Identify the structure and function of corms in plants.
Understand the process of vegetative
propagation in cocoyam plants.
Explore the culinary uses and nutritional value of cocoyam corms.

Specimen J: Dry humus in a beaker

Dry humus in a beaker is provided as a specimen to study the characteristics of organic matter in soil. Humus is the dark, decomposed organic material that enriches soil and provides essential nutrients for plant growth.

Practical Applications
By examining the dry humus in a beaker, candidates can:
Understand the composition and role of humus in soil fertility.
Study the decomposition process and
nutrient cycling in ecosystems.
Learn about the importance of organic matter in soil conservation and agricultural practices.

Soil organism that can be found in Specimen J
I. Bacteria
Ii. Earthworm
III. Funga
Elements Present in Specimen J
Nitrogen
Potassium
Sulphur

Specimen K: Moist humus in a beaker

Moist humus in a beaker is another specimen that allows candidates to observe the properties of humus in a hydrated state. This specimen
provides insights into the moisture retention capabilities of organic matter in soil.

Practical Applications
By studying the moist humus in a beaker, candidates can:
Examine the water-holding capacity and porosity of humus.
Understand the significance of humus in regulating soil moisture levels.
Explore the role of humus in supporting plant growth and preventing soil erosion.

Specimen L: Ripe orange fruit
(whole)

The ripe orange fruit is a commonly provided specimen that represents a fleshy fruit. This specimen allows candidates to study the structure, nutritional composition, and dispersal mechanisms of fruits.

Practical Applications
By examining the ripe orange fruit, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of a fruit,
including the exocarp, mesocarp, and
endocarp.
Understand the process of fruit development and ripening.
Learn about the nutritional value and health benefits of fruits.

Summary

Botanical name: Citrus sinensis

Type of fruit: Berry

Placentation: Axile

Life cycle: perennial

Dispersal agent: man, water, other animals

Features:

Has small seeds which are many

Has soft endocarp

Has juicy and fleshy mesocarp

Has leathery epicarp

Specimen M: section of coconut fruit Longitudinal

The longitudinal section of a coconut fruit is included as a specimen to explore the unique characteristics of a drupe fruit. This specimen provides insights into the internal structures
and adaptations of coconuts.

Practical Applications
By studying the longitudinal section of a coconut fruit, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of a drupe fruit, including the epicarp, mesocarp, and endocarp.
Understand the reproductive strategies of Coconut trees.
Explore the various uses of coconuts in culinary, medicinal, and industrial
applications.

Summary of Specimen M: Longitudinal section of coconut fruit
Botanical name: Cocos nucifera
Type of crop: fruit
Type of fruit: drupe
Life cycle: perennial
Dispersal agent: man

Propagation: by Seed
Features
Has only one seed which is also large
Has hard endocarp
Mesocarp is spongy and fibrous
Has smooth epicarp

Specimen N: Longitudinal section of fresh chili pepper fruit.

The longitudinal section of a fresh chili pepper fruit is provided to study the anatomy and properties of a pungent fruit. This specimen showcases the unique characteristics and adaptations of chili peppers.

Practical Applications
By examining the longitudinal section of a fresh chili pepper fruit, candidates can:
Identify the different parts of a fruit,
including the placenta, pericarp, and seeds.
Understand the chemical compounds
responsible for the spiciness of chili peppers.
Explore the culinary uses and medicinal properties of chili peppers.

Botanical name: Capsicum frutescens
Type of crop: spices
Life cycle: annual
Type of fruit: Berry
Type of placentation: Axile
Dispersal: water, animal including man
One major uses: widely used in cuisines as spice.
Features
Has smooth epicarp
Has fleshy mesocarp
Has many seeds

WAEC Biology Specimen 2023.
Group 1 (For all candidates)
Specimen A – Mature fresh eggs of a catfish
Specimen B – Fresh egg of a domestic fowl (raw, with shell intact)
Specimen C – Picture/model/chart of uterus containing a foetus
Specimen D – Longitudinal section of ovary of Pride of Barbados flower
Specimen E – Leaf of Pride of Barbados flower
Specimen F – Panicum plant/Guinea grass (whole plant)
Specimen G – Cocoyam plant/Caladium plant (whole plant)

Specimen H: Corm of cocoyam
Specimen J: Dry humus in a beaker
Specimen K: Moist humus in a beaker
Specimen L: Ripe orange fruit (whole)

Specimen M: Longitudinal section of coconut fruit

Specimen N: Longitudinal section of a fresh chilly pepper fruit

It is essential that each candidate should be provided with the following materials;

(i) glass jar cover/petri dish
(ii) white tiles
(iii) beaker
(iv) a hand lens/magnifying lens
(v) scalpel/razor blade/ knife
(vi) a pair of forceps
(vii) iodine solutions.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS FROM 2023 WAEC BIOLOGY PRACTICALS

NB: (i) All specimens can be provided as group specimens for five (5) to ten (10) candidates.
(ii) All specimens in each of the groups must carry individual labels (e.g A, B, C, D, E, F, and G in Group I)

Study specimens A, B, C, and D and use them to answer the questions that follow.

1. Name the class to which specimen A, B and C belong.

2. Name the habitat of specimen A, B, and C.

3. Name the method of reproduction and fertilization of specimen A, B, and C.

4. State three observable similarities between specimen A, B, and C.

b. Outline any three features each that enable the specimen A, B, and C adapt to their environment.

Study specimens D and answer the questions below:

5. Name the floral parts of specimen D.
6. Indicate the number of floral parts in each whorl of specimen D.

7. Name the sex of specimen D.
Ans: haemaphrodite

8. Give one reason for the answer in 7 above.

Reason:

I. Mention the type of placentation in specimen D

Ans: Marginal placentation

Reason: because the ovules or seeds are attached to the placenta along one margin of the fruit.

9. What is the symmetry of specimen D?
Ans: bilateral symmetry

10. Give one reason for the answer in 9 above.

Reason: it can be cut into two equal halves along only one plane.

11. Name one pollinating agent of specimen D .

Ans: insect eg butterfly, bee.

b. What is the botanical name of specimen E?

Ans: Caesalpinia pulcherrima

c. What is the leaf arrangements of specimen E?
Ans: opposite leaf arrangement

13. Make a drawing 8 cm – 10 cm long of the longitudinal section of specimen D and label fully.

Study specimens F, G, and H carefully and use them to answer the following questions:

14. Classify specimens F, G, and H according to the following criteria:
(a) agricultural classification;
(b) life cycle.
Ans: According to Agricultural classification 👇👇👇👇

Guinea grass – herbs/forage

Cocoyam plant – vegetable

Corm of cocoyam – tuber

According to Life Cycle

Guinea grass – annual

Cocoyam plant – biennial

Corm of Cocoyam – biennial

b. Mention the type of propagation of specimen G and H.

Ans: Vegetative propagation.

15. State two ways in which specimen H is important to human nutrition.
Ans:

Cocoyam contains ion and copper which helps to prevent anemia.

It is rich in fibre and so aids digestion of food.

It is rich carbohydrates which then gives energy.

Study Specimens L, M, and N and answer the following questions.

16. With a scalpel or knife, make a cross-section of specimen L.

17. What type of placentation is observed in the cut section of specimen L, M, and N?

Ans:

Specimen L – Axile, reason is that the ovules are attached to the central placenta.

Specimen M- Parietal.
Specimen N – Axile, reason being that the ovules are attached to the central placenta.

18. Name one example of a fruit with similar placentation as observed in the cut section of specimen L.

Ans: tomato

b. Name the type of fruit each of the specimen belong.

Ans:

Specimen L – Berry

Specimen M – Drupe

Specimen N – Berry

19. Make a drawing 10 cm – 12 cm long of the transverse section of specimen M and label fully.

20. With a labelled diagram, show the features of specimen N.

b. three observable differences among specimen L,M, and N.
b. three observable similarities among the cut sections of specimens L, M, and N .

Study Specimen J and K and answer the following questions.

To be continued…….

Submit your questions in comment box, we shall attend to you there.

Conclusion
The biology specimens provided for the WAEC 2023 examination are of utmost importance in assessing candidates’ practical knowledge and
understanding of biological concepts. Each specimen represents a different aspect of the biology curriculum and offers unique insights into the structures, adaptations, and functions of living organisms.
From the mature fresh eggs of catfish to the longitudinal sections of plant organs, these specimens provide candidates with opportunities to explore and deepen their understanding of biological principles. By studying these specimens, candidates can observe firsthand the intricate details and characteristics of various organisms, enabling them to make connections between theory and practical applications.
Furthermore, the materials provided for the examination, such as hand lenses, scalpels, forceps, and reagents, equip candidates with
the necessary tools to perform accurate and precise examinations of the specimens. These materials enable candidates to engage in hands-on exploration and experimentation, fostering a deeper understanding of biological concepts.
In conclusion, the biology specimens for the WAEC 2023 examination offer candidates a valuable opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. By closely examining and studying these specimens,
candidates can enhance their understanding of the diverse aspects of biology, ranging from reproductive systems to plant structures and
organic matter. Through this practical
examination, candidates can develop critical thinking skills, improve their scientific inquiry abilities, and ultimately excel in the field of biology.