Asexual Reproduction
Overview
A strawberry plant can send out a runner that takes root and becomes a whole new plant, identical to its parent. A single bacterium can split into two every twenty minutes. Neither needs a partner, because this is asexual reproduction, making copies from just one parent.
In this lesson you will learn exactly what asexual reproduction is, recognise examples of it, and (for the extended curriculum) weigh up its advantages and disadvantages, both for wild populations and for growing crops. Understanding why identical offspring can be both a strength and a weakness is the heart of this topic.
Objectives
- Describe asexual reproduction as a process resulting in the production of genetically identical offspring from one parent
- Identify examples of asexual reproduction in diagrams, images and information provided
- [Supplement] Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of asexual reproduction: (a) to a population of a species in the wild (b) to crop production
Audio Lesson
Listen to this lesson in the app
Mind map
This topic is mapped out so you can see how the ideas connect.
Open the mind map in the app
Flashcards
Quick recall practice on the facts this topic is tested on.
Practise these cards in the app
Lesson Note
Complete Note Available on the Green Bridge App
Get the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer for the complete IGCSE library: past papers, mark schemes, mind maps, flashcards and audio lessons.
Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Asexual Reproduction. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Asexual reproduction produces offspring that are: A. genetically different from the parent B. genetically identical to the parent C. always larger than the parent D. produced from two parents Answer: B
- How many parents are involved in asexual reproduction? A. none B. one C. two D. three Answer: B
- Which of these is an example of asexual reproduction? A. fertilisation of an egg by a sperm B. a strawberry plant producing runners C. pollination of a flower D. fusion of two gametes Answer: B
- A group of genetically identical individuals from one parent is called a: A. species B. population C. clone D. gamete Answer: C
- A disadvantage of asexual reproduction is that the offspring: A. need a mate B. show no variation C. are always weaker D. cannot grow Answer: B
Work through these questions in the app
Work through these questions in the app
Recommended Books
Practice Mock Questions
Want to practice mock questions on Asexual Reproduction? Download the Green Bridge CBT app to access mock questions and full practice assessments for this topic.
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
