Community-Level Systems and Genetics
This page expands on the previous content, moving from individual organisms to broader ecological concepts and genetic principles. It begins with an exploration of the carbon cycle, followed by the nitrogen and water cycles, which are crucial for understanding ecosystem functioning.
The curriculum then focuses on investigating ecosystem interactions and human impacts. Students will learn about the various ways organisms interact within their environments and how human activities can affect these delicate balances.
Definition: Ecosystem - A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
The genetics section covers genes and variation, introducing students to the concepts of sexual reproduction and meiosis. The curriculum also addresses sex determination and asexual reproduction, providing a comprehensive view of reproductive strategies in nature.
Highlight: Understanding genetic diagrams is a key skill developed in this section, allowing students to predict inheritance patterns.
Classification and evolution are significant topics, with a focus on natural selection and the evidence supporting evolutionary theory. The page also covers health-related topics, including disease spread, the human immune system, and the development of vaccines and medicines.
Quote: "Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution." - Theodosius Dobzhansky
The final section of this page addresses global challenges in biology. It includes methods for investigating the distribution and abundance of species, using keys and transects for ecological studies. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of maintaining biodiversity and explores human impacts on ecosystems.
Example: A practical application of this knowledge might involve students conducting a field study to assess the impact of urbanization on local plant diversity using transect methods.
The page concludes with an introduction to advanced biological technologies, such as selective breeding and genetic engineering, setting the stage for discussions on the ethical implications of these practices in medicine and agriculture.
