Biology 

Biology

Aims

•   To instill a love of science and biology

•   To help students upskill their laboratory skills

•   To stimulate and encourage a positive attitude towards biology and science

•   To build a spirit of curiosity in the students

•   To relate science to the everyday lives of the students

Objectives

Upon completion of the programme each student will have had the opportunity to:

• Complete a project on some aspect of Biology

• Carry out a number of experiments in biology

• Debate various scientific issues

• Understand some basic biology such as: human reproduction, genetics, genetic engineering, genetic crosses, DNA model and structure, applications of genetic engineering

• Understand some current uses of biology such as DNA structure, applications of genetic engineering, transgenic organisms and gene pharming

Teaching and Learning Strategies

• Formal input by teacher

• Group work/Pair work in laboratory

• Slide shows

• Use of TV, radio and newspaper articles

• Use of the Internet

• Visiting speakers

• Visit to science labs in University, Institutes of technology and Industry

Content 

• Inside the Human Body-from conception to birth

• DNA structure and function

• Building a paper model of DNA double helix

• DNA extraction from an onion or a kiwi (experiment)

• Genetic crosses

• Genetic engineering

• Applications and Potential Hazards of Genetic Engineering-research to be carried out by the students, using the mobile lab unit

• Watching short videos related to  Gene pharming

• Project work- pupils present a PowerPoint on a genetic disorder to their classmates

Resources 

To include:

• Formal input by teacher

• Group work/Pair work in laboratory

• Slide shows

• Use of TV, radio and newspaper articles

• Use of the Internet

Evaluation 

• Evaluation of a Specific Event, from the EVALUATION section of the Transition Year Journal, at the end of each module.