Biological world
ELEMENT: Building blocks
Students should be able to:
1. investigate the structures of animal and plant cells and relate them to their functions
2. describe asexual and sexual reproduction; explore patterns in the inheritance and variation of genetically controlled characteristics
3. outline evolution by natural selection and how it explains the diversity of living things.
ELEMENT: Systems and interactions
Students should be able to:
4. describe the structure, function, and interactions of the organs of the human digestive, circulatory, and respiratory systems
5. conduct a habitat study; research and investigate the adaptation, competition and interdependence of organisms within specific habitats and communities
6. evaluate how human health is affected by: inherited factors and environmental factors including nutrition; lifestyle choices; examine the role of micro-organisms in human health.
ELEMENT: Energy
Students should be able to:
7. describe respiration and photosynthesis as both chemical and biological processes; investigate factors that affect respiration and photosynthesis
8. explain how matter and energy flow through ecosystems.
ELEMENT: Sustainability
Students should be able to:
9. explain human sexual reproduction; discuss medical, ethical, and societal issues
10. evaluate how humans can successfully conserve ecological biodiversity and contribute to global food production; appreciate the benefits that people obtain from ecosystems.