Final answer:
Sperm movement towards the oocyte is helped by 'reverse peristalsis' of the uterus and uterine tubes, in addition to the sperm's own flagella and uterine contractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The movement of sperm towards the oocyte is influenced by several factors beyond the energy of their flagella and uterine contractions. One important factor is reverse peristalsis of the uterus and uterine tubes. This reverse peristalsis assists in transporting the sperm through the female reproductive tract. However, the ciliated lining of the uterine tubes also plays a crucial role. The cilia beat in coordination, especially in response to high levels of estrogen around the time of ovulation, which helps to move the oocyte toward the uterus. The correct answer to the student's question is that the cilia on the apex of the cells lining the endometrium help in sperm movement, but it is not a direct driving factor for the sperm as it is for the oocyte.