Life Sciences

Teacher in charge: Miss N. Smith

Introduction:

The standard of Life Sciences is continually rising and the requirements for the learners to succeed are, as a consequence,

becoming more demanding.

This learning area is inextricably involved with the theory and practice of Physics and Chemistry. No longer can this subject, on the threshold of tremendous advances in genetics and bio-engineering, be regarded purely as a “learning subject”, and an “easy option”, or a “subject filler”. Without an underlying interest in biological matters and a logical, inquiring mind, the potential Life Sciences learner will find the course challenging.

It is recommended that the prospective learner, choosing Life Sciences in Grade 10, should have obtained a good pass in Natural Sciences at the completion of the Grade 9 year.

The Life Sciences syllabus is a three year course. Throughout the course much practical work is carried out. In addition to the core syllabus, Life Sciences learners are required to extend themselves, beyond the scope of the syllabus in investigative research work. Learners receive guidance from their teachers and/or from experts in the specific fields. They are required to present their work independently and/or in groups.

Requirements for Success:

· Interest in the subject.

· Hard work—involving ongoing revision to familiarise oneself with the terminology and its correct usage, as well as extensive reading around the core syllabus plus related topics. A prospective Life Sciences Learner must be prepared to cope with a high content workload.

· Motivation—Only daily revision and summarising, done mostly at home, will allow you to maintain an effective level of understanding of basic content.

· Attention to detail—It is not uncommon to be introduced to as many as 20 new items of terminology associated with a complex biological process in just one lesson. Each chapter is in effect a new language.

· Accurate observation—A practical approach to this subject requires a rapid assimilation of very subject specific skills.

· Passion for the subject—will make the work-load much easier to cope with.

Job Opportunities:

The following are just a few areas in the range of careers for which Life Sciences will be a valuable subject.

Agricultural - Farming & Tech. Services Microbiologist

Bio-kinetics Physiotherapist

Forestry Plant Pathologist

Game Ranger / Environmentalist Public Health

Geneticist

Research Scientists

Horticulture

Teacher / Lecturer

Marine Biologist

Veterinary Science

Medical Technology

Reasons for taking Life Sciences:

1. To guide learners to appreciate both the uniqueness and the interdependence of organisms and their relationship to their physical environment and especially to man.

2. To stimulate interest in biological phenomena and to develop the powers of observation and imaginative thinking.

3. To foster a love for South African flora and fauna and to stress the vital importance of nature conservation.

4. To understand the physiology and complexity of all forms of life.