Here is an example of a question you might be asked on this topic - for AO2.
AO2: You need to apply your knowledge and understanding, usually referring to the ‘stem’ in order to do so (the stem is the example given before the question)
After each featured question there is a ‘model’ answer i.e. one which would achieve top marks in the exam.
Imagine that one morning as you are walking along the pavement, a dog comes racing at you from a nearby house, its teeth bared. The owner runs out of the house and gets hold of the dog before it attacks you. As you carry on walking, you realise that your mouth is very dry, you are sweating and your breathing and heartbeat are both very fast.
Question: Using your knowledge of the nervous system, explain why you are likely to be experiencing the described physical effects. [4]
Model answer:
- It is likely that I am experiencing the fight or flight response. This is an automatic response to a real or perceived threat – like almost being bitten by an out-of-control dog!
- My autonomic nervous system has reacted to the threat of nearly being bitten by switching from parasympathetic activity to sympathetic activity i.e. from relaxation to action. There is now adrenaline being released into my bloodstream.
- When this happens, a number of changes take place physically – I breathe more quickly and my heart rate increases so that I have more oxygen in my blood and I am sweating to cool down my muscles. These are all so that I can run away from the danger – the out-of-control dog.
- My mouth is dry because in the sympathetic state, I don’t produce saliva – because eating is definitely not important when faced with something that might take a chunk out of me!
