Biology

Duration

1 Year/2 Semesters

About the Course

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to the study of biology and its importance.
- Exploration of the characteristics of living organisms: metabolism, growth, response to stimuli, and reproduction.
- The scientific method: how scientists study living things.
Activities:
- Lab safety introduction and basic lab tools.
- Scientific Method Activity: Design a simple experiment, collect data, and analyze the results.

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to the structure and function of cells.
- The difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
- Overview of cell organelles and their specific roles (nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, etc.).
Activities:
- Microscope Lab: Observing plant and animal cells under a microscope.
- Cell Model Project: Create a 3D model of a cell with labeled organelles.
- Assignment: Compare and contrast the structures of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Lesson Overview:
- Study of mitosis and its role in cellular growth and repair.
- Exploration of meiosis, genetic variation, and the process of sexual reproduction.
- Comparison of mitosis and meiosis.
Activities:
- Mitosis Lab: Observation of cell division using onion root tip cells under a microscope.
- Project: Create a timeline of the phases of mitosis and meiosis, comparing their functions.
- Assignment: Write a short essay on the importance of meiosis in maintaining genetic diversity.

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to the principles of genetics: Mendelian genetics, dominance, recessiveness, and alleles.
- Study of Punnett squares, genotypes, and phenotypes.
- Exploration of human inheritance patterns, such as dominant and recessive traits.
Activities:
- Punnett Square Practice: Use Punnett squares to predict genetic outcomes.
- Heredity Lab: Conduct an experiment to observe patterns of inheritance (e.g., observing traits in plants or animals).
- Assignment: Research a genetic disorder and present findings on inheritance patterns.

Lesson Overview:
- The structure of DNA and RNA: Nucleotides, base pairing, and double helix.
- DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
- Role of DNA in genetics and protein synthesis.
Activities:
- DNA Model Activity: Build a 3D model of a DNA molecule.
- DNA Extraction Lab: Extract DNA from a fruit (e.g., strawberries).
- Project: Create a visual timeline of DNA discovery and its role in modern science.

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to the theory of evolution and natural selection.
- Study of the contributions of Charles Darwin.
- Exploration of evolutionary evidence such as fossil records and homologous structures.
Activities:
- Natural Selection Simulation: Simulate natural selection using a hands-on activity.
- Research Project: Explore how specific species have evolved over time and present findings.
- Assignment: Write a reflective essay on how natural selection shapes ecosystems.

Lesson Overview:
- Study of ecosystems, including producers, consumers, and decomposers.
- Exploration of biomes and the importance of biodiversity.
- Energy flow through ecosystems (food chains and webs).
Activities:
- Ecosystem Field Study: Observe a local ecosystem, document interactions between organisms, and map a food web.
- Energy Pyramid Project: Create an energy pyramid representing trophic levels in a specific ecosystem.
- Assignment: Compare the biodiversity in different ecosystems (e.g., rainforest vs. desert).

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to major human body systems: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, nervous, and muscular systems.
- Study of how these systems work together to maintain homeostasis.
- Exploration of diseases and how they affect these systems.
Activities:
- Dissection Lab: Dissect a frog or other organism to observe body systems.
- Body Systems Project: Create a detailed presentation on one human body system and explain how it works with others.
- Assignment: Write a report on the effects of a disease on a specific body system.

Lesson Overview:
- Study of how human activities (pollution, deforestation, overfishing) impact ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Exploration of climate change and its effects on organisms and ecosystems.
- Conservation efforts and sustainability.
Activities:
- Environmental Impact Project: Research a human impact issue and present solutions for reducing the impact.
- Group Discussion: Debate the pros and cons of conservation efforts such as reforestation and wildlife preservation.
- Assignment: Write a paper on the importance of biodiversity and the consequences of species extinction.

Lesson Overview:
- Introduction to biotechnology and its applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.
- Study of genetic engineering, CRISPR, and cloning.
- Exploration of ethical considerations in biotechnology.
Activities:
- Biotechnology Case Study: Research a real-world application of biotechnology and present findings.
- Debate: Engage in a debate on the ethical implications of genetic engineering.
- Final Project: Create a presentation on how biotechnology can solve current global challenges.

Lab Reports: For hands-on activities such as DNA extraction, dissection, and ecosystem studies.
Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes on key concepts and two major exams (one per semester).
Essays: Reflective essays and research papers on specific topics (e.g., genetics, human impact on the environment).
Projects: Creative projects such as cell models, body systems presentations, and biotechnology research.
Oral Presentations: Present research findings on topics such as natural selection or genetic engineering.