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Units 1 & 2
Units 1 & 2
UNIT 1
Students study cells as the fundamental units of life, examining their growth, replacement, and death. The role of stem cells in differentiation and renewal is explored. Cell specialisation and functioning systems in vascular plants and animals are investigated, along with homeostasis and how organisms maintain internal stability. The unit includes a student designed scientific investigation, generating primary data related to cell function or regulation. Students will apply their learning, knowledge and skills to communicate information in a scientific poster.
UNIT 2
Students explore reproduction and genetic inheritance, focusing on meiosis and how traits are influenced by their genes and environmental factors. They will analyse inheritance patterns, pedigree charts, and genetic crosses. Sexual and asexual reproduction are compared, including cloning methods. Adaptations enhancing survival and the role of keystone species and predators are studied. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge is integrated. A student led research investigation on a contemporary ethical genetics or adaptation issue is undertaken. This requires students to apply prior knowledge and implement research and scientific skills.
Assessment
Assessment
Assessment in Units 1 and 2 is school-based and includes various tasks. These may involve annotations of practical folios, bioinformatics exercises, media responses, data analysis, and problem-solving related to biological concepts. Students may complete reflective journals or blogs, assessments consisting of multiple-choice, short-answer, and/or extended responses, and reports on student-designed or adapted investigations focusing on organism survival or genetics. Formats for reporting include scientific posters, practical reports, oral presentations, or digital formats. Assessments aim to develop and demonstrate understanding and skills relevant to the unit content.
Indicative contribution amount associated with this subject: $10
Indicative contribution amount associated with this subject: $10
Units 3 & 4
Units 3 & 4
UNIT 3
Students investigate nucleic acids and proteins in cellular function, including gene structure and expression. Biochemical pathways such as photosynthesis and respiration are studied. The unit covers biotechnology applications in agriculture and bioethics. Case studies and data analysis reinforce understanding of DNA discoveries, gene technologies like CRISPR, proteomics, enzyme inhibitors, and improving cellular efficiency. Students apply knowledge to contemporary biological questions and explore the impact of biotechnology.
UNIT 4
Students examine the immune system and bioethical issues related to disease. Evolutionary biology is studied through changes in allele frequencies, species relatedness, and fossil records. Trends in human fossils and diverse interpretations are considered. The unit explores disease mechanisms, immunotherapy, vaccinations, and evolutionary processes including population dynamics and conservation. Students investigate how technology influences evolutionary biology and apply understanding of evolutionary responses to environmental challenges.
Assessment
Assessment
Practical work is central to learning and is analysed in its scientific accuracy and rigour. Other assessments include assessing bioethics, case studies and analysis of primary and secondary data. A student-designed scientific investigation related to cellular processes or responses to challenges is undertaken in Unit 4. Findings are presented as a scientific poster. The external exam tests knowledge and skills developed across the units.
The level of achievement for Units 3 and 4 is also assessed by an end-of-year examination.
Indicative contribution amount associated with this subject: $65
Indicative contribution amount associated with this subject: $65
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