Below is a basic outline of some of the possible topics to be included in the curriculum. It is by no means all inclusive and will need to be checked against local and NGSS standards.
The High School Life Science curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and practices of biology. The curriculum covers a range of topics including Molecules to Organisms, Inheritance and Variation, Matter and Energy in Life, Ecosystems, and Natural Selection and Evolution.
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Molecules to Organisms: In this unit, students will learn about the molecular and cellular biology of living organisms. They will learn about the chemical composition of living organisms, including carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins, and how they interact to perform life functions. They will also learn about cell structure and function, and how cells divide and differentiate.
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Inheritance and Variation: In this unit, students will learn about the principles of inheritance and genetic variation. They will learn about the principles of Mendelian genetics, including the laws of segregation and independent assortment, and how genetic information is passed from parents to offspring. They will also learn about genetic variation and how it is influenced by environmental factors.
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Matter and Energy in Life: In this unit, students will learn about the flow of matter and energy through living systems. They will learn about the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, and how they are linked to the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems. They will also learn about the importance of biodiversity and the role of organisms in the cycling of matter and energy.
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Ecosystems: In this unit, students will learn about the interactions between living organisms and their physical environment. They will learn about the abiotic and biotic factors that influence ecosystems, as well as the different types of interactions between organisms. They will also learn about the concept of ecological succession and the relationships between organisms and their environment.
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Natural Selection and Evolution: In this unit, students will learn about the principles of natural selection and evolution. They will learn about the process of natural selection, how it leads to adaptations, and how it shapes the diversity of life on Earth. They will also learn about the evidence for evolution and the history of life on Earth, including the history of major groups of organisms and the origins of modern organisms.
Throughout the course, students will engage in hands-on laboratory activities and investigations to help them develop scientific inquiry and data analysis skills. They will also be encouraged to make connections between the Life Science concepts they are learning and real-world applications. The curriculum also includes opportunities for group discussion, problem-solving and critical thinking, and interactive simulations and visualizations to support learning.