It is highly recommended that students intending to undertake this subject in Unit 3 & 4, should have successfully completed and passed Biology Unit 1 and 2 prior.
Unit 3: How do cells maintain life?
In this unit students investigate the workings of the cell from several perspectives. These different perspectives enable consideration of both capabilities and the limitations of living organisms whether animal, plant, fungus or microorganism. Students examine the key molecules and biomechanical pathways involved in cellular processes both within the cell and between cells. At this molecular level students study the human immune system and the interactions between its components to provide immunity to specific antigen. A student investigation related to biological change and/or continuity is undertaken in either Unit 3 or Unit 4, or across both Unit 3 and Unit 4. The findings of the investigation are presented in a scientific poster format.
Unit 4: How does life change and respond to challenges over time?
In this unit students consider the continual change and the challenges to which life on Earth has been subjected. They examine change in life forms, investigate the relatedness between species and consider the impact of various change events on a population’s gene pool. Students explore the structural and cognitive trends in the human fossil record and the interrelationships between human biological and cultural evolution. The biological consequences, and social and ethical implications, of manipulating the DNA molecule and applying biotechnologies are explored for both the individual and the species.