GCSEPsychologyAQAExam QuestionsBrain & NeuropsychologyNeuron Structure & Function

Neuron Structure & Function (AQA GCSE Psychology): Exam Questions

Exam code: 8182

21 mins5 questions
14 marks

Outline Hebb’s theory of learning and neuronal growth.

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29 marks

The psychologist Carol Dweck developed a theory about the way in which our mindset affects learning. Donald Hebb was a neuropsychologist who developed the theory of learning and neuronal growth.

Explain what Dweck means by ‘fixed mindset’ and ‘growth mindset’.

Briefly describe Hebb’s theory.

Discuss whether or not Hebb’s theory supports the idea that having a growth mindset is an advantage when learning.

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31 mark

Which one of the following statements about neurons is correct? Shade one box only.

  • Motor neurons carry information to the spinal cord

  • Relay neurons carry information from motor neurons

  • Sensory neurons always have longer axons than motor neurons

  • Sensory neurons carry information to the brain

Choose your answer

4a2 marks

Below is a diagram of a motor neuron.

Diagram of a neuron showing dendrites labelled 'i' and synapses in muscle fibres labelled 'ii' connected by an axon with a highlighted cell body.

Identify the parts labelled i) and ii).

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4b2 marks

Briefly explain the function of a motor neuron.

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53 marks

Read the item and then answer the questions that follow.

Sam was walking home at night alone. Suddenly, he heard a sound behind him. His heart started to beat faster and he began to run to the bus stop. He then heard a voice shouting, ‘Wait for me Sam!’ Sam turned to see his friend Neil running along the street, trying to catch up with him. Sam stopped and his breathing slowed as he waited for Neil. ‘I am glad to see it’s you, Neil,’ said Sam.

Draw a diagram of a synapse. On your diagram label the following: vesicle, neurotransmitter, synaptic gap (synaptic cleft), receptor, direction of impulse.

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