UNIT 1 - How do organisms regulate their functions?
In this unit students examine the cell as the structural and functional unit of life, from the single celled to the multicellular organism, including the requirements for sustaining cellular processes. Students focus on cell growth, replacement and death and the role of stem cells in differentiation, specialisation and renewal of cells. They explore how systems function through cell specialisation in vascular plants and animals, and consider the role homeostatic mechanisms play in maintaining an animal’s internal environment.
A student-adapted or student-designed scientific investigation that generates data is also undertaken.
Key Skills Achieved:
Develop aims and questions, formulate hypotheses and make predictions, Plan and conduct investigations, Comply with safety and ethical guidelines, Generate, collate and investigate methods, Analyse and evaluate data and investigation methods, Construct evidence-based arguments and draw conclusions, Analyse, evaluate and communicate scientific ideas.
Assessment:
UNIT 2 - How does inheritance impact on diversity?
In this unit students explore reproduction and the transmission of biological information from generation to generation and the impact this has on species diversity. They apply their understanding of chromosomes to explain the process of meiosis. Students consider how the relationship between genes, and the environment and epigenetic factors influence phenotypic expression. They explain the inheritance of characteristics, analyse patterns of inheritance, interpret pedigree charts and predict outcomes of genetic crosses.
Students analyse the advantages and disadvantages of asexual and sexual reproductive strategies, including the use of reproductive cloning technologies. They study structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations that enhance an organism’s survival. Students explore interdependences between species, focusing on how keystone species and top predators structure and maintain the distribution, density and size of a population. They also consider the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and perspectives in understanding the survival of organisms in Australian ecosystems.
A student-directed research investigation into a contemporary ethical issue relating to the application of genetic knowledge, reproductive science, inheritance or adaptations and interdependencies beneficial for survival.
Key Skills Achieved:
Develop aims and questions, formulate hypotheses and make predictions, Plan and conduct investigations, Comply with safety and ethical guidelines, Generate, collate and investigate methods, Analyse and evaluate data and investigation methods, Construct evidence-based arguments and draw conclusions, Analyse, evaluate and communicate scientific ideas.
Assessment:
Prerequisites:
N/A
Recommendations:
N/A
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