AQA · GCSE · Combined Science
Course version: 8464 · Version from Sept 2018
Meiosis: When a cell divides to form gametes:
When a cell in a reproductive organ divides to form gametes by meiosis, a specific sequence of events occurs.
Checked against the AQA 8464 specification (opens in a new tab) on .
- Point 3 of 7
- 2 key terms
Study notes
From the checked teaching notes for this specification point.
The idea
When a cell in a reproductive organ divides to form gametes by meiosis, a specific sequence of events occurs. First, copies of the genetic information are made. Following this replication, the cell divides twice to form four gametes. Each of these four gametes contains a single set of chromosomes, which is half the number found in a normal body cell. Crucially, all the gametes produced are genetically different from each other and from the original parent cell.
For example: A human cell with 46 chromosomes will copy its genetic material and divide twice to produce four sperm or egg cells, each containing 23 chromosomes and a unique genetic combination.
What earns the marks
- Copies of the genetic information are made before the cell divides.
- The cell divides twice during the process of meiosis.
- Four gametes are formed from the original cell.
- Each gamete contains a single set of chromosomes.
- All gametes produced are genetically different from each other.
Common mistakes and how to put them right
Forgetting that genetic material is copied first.
Put it right: Copies of the genetic information are made before the cell divides.
Stating that only one division occurs.
Put it right: The cell must divide twice to produce four gametes.
Claiming the resulting gametes are identical.
Put it right: All four gametes are genetically different from each other.
Exam tips
- Learn the three key bullet points for meiosis: genetic information is copied, the cell divides twice to form four gametes, and all gametes are genetically different.
- Do not describe the detailed stages of meiosis, as this is not required; focus on the overall outcomes.
Try the lesson
The start of the Meiosis: When a cell divides to form gametes: lesson, made from checked teaching notes for this specification point.
Have a go first
Which of the following correctly describes what happens when a cell divides to form gametes?
Listen
When a cell in a reproductive organ divides to form gametes by meiosis, a specific sequence of events occurs. First, copies of the genetic information are made. Following this replication, the cell divides twice to form four gametes. Each of these four gametes contains a single set of chromosomes, which is half the number found in a normal body cell. Crucially, all the gametes produced are genetically different from each other and from the original parent cell. For example, a human cell with 46 chromosomes will copy its genetic material and divide twice to produce four sperm or egg cells, each containing 23 chromosomes and a unique genetic combination. A strong answer earns marks for these points. Copies of the genetic information are made before the cell divides. The cell divides twice during the process of meiosis. Four gametes are formed from the original cell. Each gamete contains a single set of chromosomes. A common slip: Forgetting that genetic material is copied first. Instead, copies of the genetic information are made before the cell divides. Exam tip: Learn the three key bullet points for meiosis: genetic information is copied, the cell divides twice to form four gametes, and all gametes are genetically different.
See it
Key words
Say what each word means before you turn the card.
Meiosis
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Gamete formation
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See every definition
- Meiosis
- A process in which copies of the genetic information are made and the cell divides twice to form four gametes.
- Gamete formation
- The production of four gametes from the original cell, each containing a single set of chromosomes.
Label the diagram
Some boxes have lost their names. Pick the right name for each number.
1Box 1
2Box 2
3Box 3
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