1. Biodiversity and classification of micro-organisms
Study & Master Life Sciences Learner's Book Page 20 - 87
- Core Content
Biodiversity
• Microorganisms: basic structure and general characteristics of the following groups (links with Grade 9 and 10):
- viruses
- bacteria
- protista
- fungi.
(Macroscopic organisms in the protista and fungi should only be mentioned - not studied in any detail)
• Mention of the roles that these groups play in maintaining balance in the environment and web of life.
• Symbiotic relationships, including, nitrogen fixing bacteria in plants and E.Coli in the human intestine (link with Grade 10).
• The effect and management of one disease from each of the four groups:
- viruses (rabies, HIV/AIDS, influenza)
- bacteria (blight, cholera, tuberculosis, anthrax)
- protists (malaria)
- fungi (rusts, thrush, ringworm, athlete’s foot).
• Immunity, including plants and animals’ immune responses of against the infecting microorganism
Vaccinations (briefly).
• The use of drugs, e.g., antibiotics; effect on microorganisms
• The use of microorganisms to produce medicines (e.g., insulin and antibiotics).
• Traditional technology to produce, e.g., beer, wine and cheese.