Health Education Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2021

Question 3

 

(a) Mention three functions of the lumbar vertebrae in humans [3 marks]
(b) Explain briefly the following terms:
(i)pathology;
(ii)pathogen.    [4 marks]

Observation

 

This question was attempted by many candidates and their performance was good. In 3(b), some candidates were explaining pathology as a bridge between science and medicine.

The expected answers are as follows: 

(a) Functions of the Lumbar vertebrae in humans

  • Bears the weight of the body
  • Helps  maintain the right/proper weight of the body
  • Helps to prevent sagging in tall people at old age/good posture
  • It supports the waist of females during pregnancies
  • Provides attachment for abdominal muscles
  • Encases/protects the spinal cord/nerves
  • Provides passages for blood vessels/nerves

                       
(b) Explanation of terms
  (i) Pathology:
This is the study of the causes; and effects of diseases.
OR
This is the science and study of nature of diseases.               
(ii) Pathogen:
This is an organism; that causes disease.
OR
This is a disease; causing organism.