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TUGGERAH LAKES SECONDARY COLLEGE
THE ENTRANCE CAMPUS
HSC BIOLOGY
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Table of Contents
Course Description page 2
Band Descriptors page 3
Objectives and Outcomes page 5
Topic Sequence and Plan page 7
Assessment Schedule page 8
9.1 Biology Skills page 9
9.2 Maintaining a Balance page 12
9.3 Blueprint of Life page 15
9.4 The Search for Better Health page 19
9.6 Option — Communication page 23
Glossary of Key Words page 27
Page 1
Higher School Certificate
Course Description
BIOLOGY Course: Biology Course No: 15030
2 units for each of Preliminary and HSC
Board Developed Course
Exclusions: Senior Science (Preliminary only)
Course Description
Biology is the study of living organisms, life processes and interactions between organisms and their environment.
The Preliminary course incorporates the study of the mechanisms and systems that living things use to obtain, transport and draw on materials for their own growth and repair; biotic and abiotic features of the environment and the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem; the evolution of life on Earth; and the effects of global changes on the diversity of Australian biota during the formation of the Australian continent.
The HSC course builds upon the Preliminary course. It examines the processes and structures that plants and animals use to maintain a constant internal environment and the way in which characteristics are transmitted from generation to generation. The options cover a variety of interest areas and draw on the increased information and understanding provided by improved technology to examine areas of current research.
Topics Covered
Preliminary Course
Biology Skills Module 8.1
Core Modules
A Local Ecosystem Patterns in Nature Life on Earth Evolution of Australian Biota
HSC Course
Biology Skills Module 9.1
Core Modules
Maintaining a Balance Blueprint of Life The Search for Better Health One Option from the following modules:
Communication Biotechnology Genetics: The Code Broken? The Human Story Biochemistry
Particular Course Requirements
Each module specifies content which provides opportunities for students to achieve the Biology skill outcomes. Biology modules 8.1 (Preliminary) and 9.1 (HSC) provide the skills content that must be addressed within and across each course. Teachers should provide opportunities based on the module content to develop the full range of skills content identified in Biology skills modules 8.1 and 9.1.
The Preliminary course includes a field study related to local terrestrial and aquatic environments. Students will complete a minimum of 80 indicative hours of practical experiences across Preliminary and HSC course time with no less than 35 hours in the HSC course. Practical experiences must include at least one open-ended investigation in both the Preliminary and HSC Courses.
Page 2
HSC Biology Performance Band Descriptors
Band 6
• demonstrates an extensive knowledge and understanding of biological concepts, including complex and
abstract ideas
• demonstrates an extensive understanding of the historical development of biological concepts, their
applications and implications for society and the environment, and the future directions of biological
research
• communicates succinctly, logically and sequentially using a variety of scientific formats, including
diagrams, graphs, tables, flow charts and equations relating to biology
• analyses and evaluates data effectively, identifying biological relationships, quantifying explanations
and descriptions, synthesising information to draw conclusions
• uses precise biological terms extensively and correctly in a wide range of contexts
• designs valid experimental processes using appropriate technologies and incorporating the thorough
knowledge of the use of a control, variables and repetition to solve biological problems
• applies knowledge and information to unfamiliar situations and designs an original solution to a
biological problem
Band 5
• demonstrates thorough knowledge and understanding of most biological concepts
• demonstrates a thorough understanding of the historical development of biological concepts and their
applications and implications for society and the environment
• communicates effectively in a variety of scientific formats including diagrams, graphs, tables, flow
charts and equations relating to biology
• explains qualitative and quantitative biological relationships and ideas coherently; identifies patterns in
data to draw conclusions
• uses precise biological terms frequently and correctly in a range of contexts
• identifies the correct application of scientific experimental methodology to solve biological problems
Band 4
• demonstrates sound knowledge and clear understanding of some biological concepts
• demonstrates a sound understanding of the historical development of biological concepts and their
applications for society and the environment
• communicates using clear written expression and incorporating diagrams of biological structures
• provides qualitative and quantitative descriptions of biological phenomena and explains straightforward
biological relationships
• uses general biological terms frequently and correctly in a range of contexts
• identifies the correct components of the experimental scientific method in biology
Page 3
Band 3
• recalls basic knowledge and understanding of some biological concepts
• demonstrates a basic understanding of the historical development of biological concepts and their
applications for society and the environment
• uses fundamental written communication with some use of simple scientific diagrams relating to biology
• provides qualitative descriptions of fundamental biological phenomena and explains some
straightforward biological relationships
• uses some general biological terms correctly in a limited range of contexts
• recalls some aspects of the experimental scientific method in biology
Band 2
• recalls limited knowledge and has elementary understanding of some straightforward biological
concepts
• demonstrates a limited understanding of the historical development of biological concepts
• uses fundamental written communication relating to biology
• provides simple qualitative descriptions of biological phenomena
• uses general biological terms occasionally
Band 1
Page 4
Biology Stage 6
7.1 Table of Objectives and Outcomes
Objectives Preliminary Course Outcomes HSC Course Outcomes
Pres
crib
ed F
ocus
Are
a
Students will develop knowledge and understanding of:
A student:
A student:
1 the history of biology P1 outlines the historical development of major biological principles, concepts and ideas
H1 evaluates how major advances in scientific understanding and technology have changed the direction or nature of scientific thinking
2 the nature and practice of biology
P2 applies the processes that are used to test and validate models, theories and laws of science, with particular emphasis on first-hand investigations in biology
H2 analyses the ways in which models, theories and laws in biology have been tested and validated
3 applications and uses of biology
P3 assesses the impact of particular technological advances on understanding in biology
H3 assesses the impact of particular advances in biology on the development of technologies
4 implications of biology for society and the environment
P4 describes applications of biology which affect society or the environment
H4 assesses the impacts of applications of biology on society and the environment
5 current issues, research and developments in biology
P5 describes the scientific principles employed in particular areas of biological research
H5 identifies possible future directions of biological research
Dom
ain:
Kno
wle
dge
6 cell ultrastructure and processes
P6 explains how cell ultrastructure and the coordinated activities of cells, tissues and organs contribute to macroscopic processes in organisms
H6 explains why the biochemical processes that occur in cells are related to macroscopic changes in the organism
7 biological diversity P7 describes the range of organisms in terms of specialisation for a habitat
H7 analyses the impact of natural and human processes on biodiversity
8 environmental interactions
P8 analyses the interrelationships of organisms within the ecosystem
H8 evaluates the impact of human activity on the interactions of organisms and their environment
9 mechanisms of inheritance
P9 explains how processes of reproduction ensure continuity of species
H9 describes the mechanisms of inheritance in molecular terms
10 biological evolution P10 identifies and describes the evidence for evolution
H10 describes the mechanisms of evolution and assesses the impact of human activity on evolution
Page 5
Objectives Preliminary Course Outcomes HSC Course Outcomes
Students will develop knowledge and understanding of:
A student:
A student: Do
mai
n: S
kills
11 planning investigations P11 identifies and implements
improvements to investigation plans
H11 justifies the appropriateness of a particular investigation plan
12 conducting investigations P12 discusses the validity and
reliability of data gathered from first-hand investigations and secondary sources
H12 evaluates ways in which accuracy and reliability could be improved in investigations
13 communicating information and understanding
P13 identifies appropriate terminology and reporting styles to communicate information and understanding in biology
H13 uses terminology and reporting styles appropriately and successfully to communicate information and understanding
14 developing scientific thinking and problem-solving techniques
P14 draws valid conclusions from gathered data and information
H14 assesses the validity of conclusions from gathered data and information
15 working individually and in teams
P15 implements strategies to work effectively as an individual or as a team member
H15 explains why an investigation is best undertaken individually or by a team
Dom
ain:
Val
ues &
At
titud
es
16 themselves, others, learning as a lifelong process, biology and the environment
P16 demonstrates positive values about and attitudes towards both the living and non-living components of the environment, ethical behaviour and a desire for a critical evaluation of the consequences of the applications of science
H16 justifies positive values about and attitudes towards both the living and non-living components of the environment, ethical behaviour and a desire for a critical evaluation of the consequences of the applications of science
Page 6
Year 12 Biology 2017-2018
For us to finish the course effectively, we need to follow this plan. Term 4 2017
Week Date Topic Assessment
4 30th Oct – 3rd Nov Maintaining A Balance 5 6th - 10th Nov Maintaining A Balance 6 13th - 17th Nov Maintaining A Balance 7 20th – 24th Nov Maintaining A Balance
8 27th Nov - 1st Dec Maintaining A Balance
First-Hand Investigation 2nd Hand
Data 9 4th – 8th Dec Maintaining A Balance
10 11th - 15th Dec Maintaining A Balance Term 1 2018 Week Date Topic Assessment
1 29th Jan – 2nd Feb Maintaining A Balance 2 5th - 9th Feb Blueprint of Life 3 12th - 16th Feb Blueprint of Life 4 19th – 23rd Feb Blueprint of Life 5 26th Feb - 2nd Mar Blueprint of Life 6 5th - 9th Mar Blueprint of Life 7 12th - 16th Mar Blueprint of Life 8 19th – 23rd Mar Blueprint of Life 9 27th - 31st Mar Blueprint of Life
10 2nd – 6th Apr Mid Course Exams 11 9th – 13th Apr
Term 2 2018 Week Date Topic Assessment
1 1st – 4th May Blueprint of Life 2 7th - 11th May Communication
3 14th - 18th May Communication 4 21st - 25th May Communication 5 28th May – 1st Jun Communication 6 4th - 8th Jun Communication 7 11th - 15th Jun Communication 8 18th - 22nd Jun Communication
9 25th – 29th Jun Communication Research Task 10 2nd – 6th Jul Communication
Term 3 2018 Week Date Topic Assessment
1 24th - 27th Jul Search For Better Health 2 30th Jul – 3rd Aug Search For Better Health
3 6th - 10th Aug Search For Better Health 4 13th - 17th Aug Search For Better Health 5 20th – 24th Aug
Trial HSC 6 27th - 31st Aug
7 3rd - 7th Sep Search For Better Health 8 10th - 14th Sep Search For Better Health 9 17th – 21st Sep Search For Better Health
10 24th – 28th Sep Search For Better Health
Page 7
ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE
WHEN TOPIC/S TYPE OF TASK OUTCOMES VALUE
1
Term 4 2017
Week 8
Maintaining a Balance
First-Hand Investigation
2nd Hand Data
H11, H12, H13, H14 20%
2
Term 1 2018
Weeks 10-11
Maintaining a Balance
Blueprint of Life
Mid Course Exam H1-H10 15%
3
Term 2 2018
Week 9 Communication Research Task H12,H13, H14 25%
4 Ongoing
Maintaining a Balance
Blueprint of Life
First-Hand Investigation
Reports H11,H12,H13,H14 15%
5 Term 3 2018
Weeks 5-6 ALL Trial HSC
H1-10
25%
Page 8
Biology Stage 6 HSC Course
9.1 Biology Skills During the HSC course, it is expected that students will further develop skills in planning and conducting investigations, communicating information and understanding, scientific thinking and problem-solving and working individually and in teams. Each module specifies content through which skill outcomes can be achieved. Teachers should develop activities based on that content to provide students with opportunities to develop the full range of skills.
HSC Course Outcomes
Content
A student:
H11 justifies the appropriateness of a particular investigation plan
Students will learn to:
11.1 identify data sources to: a) analyse complex problems to determine appropriate ways in which each aspect may be
researched b) determine the type of data that needs to be collected and explain the qualitative or
quantitative analysis that will be required for this data to be useful c) identify the orders of magnitude that will be appropriate and uncertainty that may be
present in the measurement of data d) identify and use correct units for data that will be collected e) recommend the use of an appropriate technology or strategy for data collection or
gathering information that will assist efficient future analysis
11.2 plan first-hand investigations to: a) demonstrate the use of the terms ‘dependent’ and ‘independent’ to describe variables
involved in the investigation b) identify variables that need to be kept constant, develop strategies to ensure that these
variables are kept constant and demonstrate the use of a control c) design investigations that allow valid and reliable data and information to be collected d) design and trial procedures to undertake investigations and explain why a procedure, a
sequence of procedures or repetition of procedures is appropriate e) predict possible issues that may arise during the course of an investigation and identify
strategies to address these issues if necessary
11.3 choose equipment or resources by: a) identifying and/or setting up the most appropriate equipment or combination of equipment
needed to undertake the investigation b) carrying out a risk assessment of intended experimental procedures and identifying and
addressing potential hazards c) identifying technology that could be used during investigations and determining its
suitability and effectiveness for its potential role in the procedure or investigations d) recognising the difference between destructive and non-destructive testing of material
and analysing potentially different results of these two procedures
Page 9
H12 evaluates ways in which accuracy and reliability could be improved in investigations
12.1 perform first-hand investigations by: a) carrying out the planned procedure, recognising where and when modifications
are needed and analysing the effect of these adjustments b) efficiently undertaking the planned procedure to minimise hazards and wastage of
resources c) disposing carefully and safely of any waste materials produced during the
investigation d) identifying and using safe work practices during investigations
12.2 gather first-hand information by: a) using appropriate data collection techniques, employing appropriate technologies,
including data loggers and sensors b) measuring, observing and recording results in accessible and recognisable forms,
carrying out repeat trials as appropriate
12.3 gather information from secondary sources by: a) accessing information from a range of resources, including popular scientific
journals, digital technologies and the Internet b) practising efficient data collection techniques to identify useful information in
secondary sources c) extracting information from numerical data in graphs and tables as well as from
written and spoken material in all its forms d) summarising and collating information from a range of resources e) identifying practising male and female Australian scientists, the areas in which
they are currently working and information about their research
12.4 process information to: a) assess the accuracy of any measurements and calculations and the relative importance
of the data and information gathered b) identify and apply appropriate mathematical formulae and concepts c) best illustrate trends and patterns by selecting and using appropriate methods,
including computer-assisted analysis d) evaluate the relevance of first-hand and secondary information and data in
relation to the area of investigation e) assess the reliability of first-hand and secondary information and data by
considering information from various sources f) assess the accuracy of scientific information presented in mass media by
comparison with similar information presented in scientific journals
H13 uses terminology and reporting styles appropriately and successfully to communicate information and understanding
13.1 present information by: a) selecting and using appropriate text types or combinations thereof, for oral and
written presentations b) selecting and using appropriate media to present data and information c) selecting and using appropriate methods to acknowledge sources of information d) using symbols and formulae to express relationships and using appropriate units
for physical quantities e) using a variety of pictorial representations to show relationships and present
information clearly and succinctly f) selecting and drawing appropriate graphs to convey information and relationships
clearly and accurately g) identifying situations where use of a curve of best fit is appropriate to present
graphical information
Page 10
H14 assesses the validity of conclusions from gathered data and information
14.1 analyse information to: a) identify trends, patterns and relationships as well as contradictions in data and
information b) justify inferences and conclusions c) identify and explain how data supports or refutes an hypothesis, a prediction or a
proposed solution to a problem d) predict outcomes and generate plausible explanations related to the observations e) make and justify generalisations f) use models, including mathematical ones, to explain phenomena and/or make
predictions g) use cause and effect relationships to explain phenomena h) identify examples of the interconnectedness of ideas or scientific principles 14.2 solve problems by: a) identifying and explaining the nature of a problem b) describing and selecting from different strategies those which could be used to solve
a problem c) using identified strategies to develop a range of possible solutions to a particular
problem d) evaluating the appropriateness of different strategies for solving an identified
problem 14.3 use available evidence to: a) design and produce creative solutions to problems b) propose ideas that demonstrate coherence and logical progression and include correct
use of scientific principles and ideas c) apply critical thinking in the consideration of predictions, hypotheses and the results
of investigations d) formulate cause and effect relationships
H15 explains why an investigation is best undertaken individually or by a team
The HSC course builds on the Preliminary course and further increases the students’ skills in working individually and in teams. Refer to the content overview on page 14 of the syllabus.
Page 11
9.2 Maintaining a Balance Contextual Outline Multicellular organisms have specialised organ systems that are adapted for the uptake and transport of essential nutrients from the environment, the utilisation or production of energy and the removal of waste products arising from cellular activities. The basis of healthy body-functioning in all organisms is the health of their cells. The physical and chemical factors of the environment surrounding these cells must remain within narrow limits for cells to survive. These narrow limits need to be maintained and any deviation from these limits must be quickly corrected. A breakdown in the maintenance of this balance causes problems for the organism. The nervous and endocrine systems in animals and the hormone system in plants bring about the coordinated functioning of these organ systems. They are able to monitor and provide the feedback necessary to maintain a constant internal environment. Enzyme action is a prime example of the need for this balance. Enzymes control all of the chemical reactions that constitute the body’s metabolism. As enzymes normally function only within a narrow temperature range, even a small rise in body temperature can result in the failure of many of the reactions of metabolism that are essential to life. This module increases students’ understanding of the applications and uses of biology, implications for society and the environment and current issues, research and developments in biology.
Students learn to: Students:
1.Most organisms are active in a limited temperature range
identify the role of enzymes in metabolism, describe their chemical composition and use a simple model to describe their specificity on substrates
identify data sources, plan, choose equipment or resources and perform a first-hand investigation to test the effect of: – increased temperature – change in pH – change in substrate
concentrations on the activity of named enzyme(s)
gather, process and analyse information from secondary sources and use available evidence to develop a model of a feedback mechanism
analyse information from secondary sources to describe adaptations and responses that have occurred in Australian organisms to assist temperature regulation
identify the pH as a way of describing the acidity of a substance
explain why the maintenance of a constant internal environment is important for optimal metabolic efficiency
describe homeostasis as the process by which organisms maintain a relatively stable internal environment
explain that homeostasis consists of two stages: – detecting changes from the stable
state – counteracting changes from the
stable state
outline the role of the nervous system in detecting and responding to environmental changes
identify the broad range of temperatures over which life is found compared with the narrow limits for individual species
compare responses of named Australian ectothermic and endothermic organisms to changes in the ambient temperature and explain how these responses assist temperature regulation
identify some responses of plants to temperature change
Page 12
Students learn to: Students:
2. Plants and animals transport dissolved nutrients and gases in a fluid medium
identify the form(s) in which each of the following is carried in mammalian blood: – carbon dioxide – oxygen – water – salts – lipids – nitrogenous waste – other products of digestion
perform a first-hand investigation to demonstrate the effect of dissolved carbon dioxide on the pH of water
perform a first-hand investigation using the light microscope and prepared slides to gather information to estimate the size of red and white blood cells and draw scaled diagrams of each
analyse information from secondary sources to identify current technologies that allow measurement of oxygen saturation and carbon dioxide concentrations in blood and describe and explain the conditions under which these technologies are used
analyse information from secondary sources to identify the products extracted from donated blood and discuss the uses of these products
analyse and present information from secondary sources to report on progress in the production of artificial blood and use available evidence to propose reasons why such research is needed
choose equipment or resources to perform a first-hand investigation to gather first-hand data to draw transverse and longitudinal sections of phloem and xylem tissue
explain the adaptive advantage of haemoglobin
compare the structure of arteries, capillaries and veins in relation to their function
describe the main changes in the chemical composition of the blood as it moves around the body and identify tissues in which these changes occur
outline the need for oxygen in living cells and explain why removal of carbon dioxide from cells is essential
describe current theories about processes responsible for the movement of materials through plants in xylem and phloem tissue
Page 13
Students learn to: Students:
3. Plants and animals regulate the concentration of gases, water and waste products of metabolism in cells and in interstitial fluid
explain why the concentration of water in cells should be maintained within a narrow range for optimal function
perform a first-hand investigation of the structure of a mammalian kidney by dissection, use of a model or visual resource and identify the regions involved in the excretion of waste products
gather, process and analyse information from secondary sources to compare the process of renal dialysis with the function of the kidney
present information to outline the general use of hormone replacement therapy in people who cannot secrete aldosterone
analyse information from secondary sources to compare and explain the differences in urine concentration of terrestrial mammals, marine fish and freshwater fish
use available evidence to explain the relationship between the conservation of water and the production and excretion of concentrated nitrogenous wastes in a range of Australian insects and terrestrial mammals
process and analyse information from secondary sources and use available evidence to discuss processes used by different plants for salt regulation in saline environments
perform a first-hand investigation to gather information about structures in plants that assist in the conservation of water
explain why the removal of wastes is essential for continued metabolic activity
identify the role of the kidney in the excretory system of fish and mammals
explain why the processes of diffusion and osmosis are inadequate in removing dissolved nitrogenous wastes in some organisms
distinguish between active and passive transport and relate these to processes occurring in the mammalian kidney
explain how the processes of filtration and reabsorption in the mammalian nephron regulate body fluid composition
outline the role of the hormones, aldosterone and ADH (anti-diuretic hormone) in the regulation of water and salt levels in blood
define enantiostasis as the maintenance of metabolic and physiological functions in response to variations in the environment and discuss its importance to estuarine organisms in maintaining appropriate salt concentrations
describe adaptations of a range of terrestrial Australian plants that assist in minimising water loss
Page 14
9.3 Blueprint of Life Contextual Outline
Because all living things have a finite life span, the survival of each species depends on the ability of individual organisms to reproduce. The continuity of life is assured when the chemical information that defines it is passed on from one generation to the next on the chromosomes. Modern molecular biology is providing opportunities to alter the information transferred from one generation to the next in technologies such as cloning and in the production of transgenic species. The segregation and independent assortment of the genetic information within a species provides the variation necessary to produce some individuals with characteristics that better suit them to surviving and reproducing in their environment. Changes in the environment may act on these variations. The identification of mutations and their causes becomes important in preventing mutations and in identifying and potentially nullifying the effects of mutations in living organisms. This module increases students’ understanding of the history, nature and practice of biology, the applications and uses of biology, the implications of biology for society and the environment and current issues, research and developments in biology.
Students learn to: Students:
1. Evidence of evolution suggests that the mechanisms of inheritance, accompanied by selection, allow change over many generations
outline the impact on the evolution of plants and animals of: − changes in physical conditions in the
environment − changes in chemical conditions in
the environment − competition for resources
plan, choose equipment or resources and perform a first-hand investigation to model natural selection
analyse information from secondary sources to prepare a case study to show how an environmental change can lead to changes in a species
perform a first-hand investigation or gather information from secondary sources (including photographs/ diagrams/models) to observe, analyse and compare the structure of a range of vertebrate forelimbs
use available evidence to analyse, using a named example, how advances in technology have changed scientific thinking about evolutionary relationships
analyse information from secondary sources on the historical development of theories of evolution and use available evidence to assess social and political influences on these developments
describe, using specific examples, how the theory of evolution is supported by the following areas of study: − palaeontology, including fossils that
have been considered as transitional forms
− biogeography − comparative embryology − comparative anatomy − biochemistry
explain how Darwin/Wallace’s theory of evolution by natural selection and isolation accounts for divergent evolution and convergent evolution
Page 15
Students learn to: Students:
2. Gregor Mendel’s experiments helped advance our knowledge of the inheritance of characteristics
outline the experiments carried out by Gregor Mendel
perform an investigation to construct pedigrees or family trees, trace the inheritance of selected characteristics and discuss their current use
solve problems involving monohybrid crosses using Punnett squares or other appropriate techniques
process information from secondary sources to describe an example of hybridisation within a species and explain the purpose of this hybridization
describe the aspects of the experimental techniques used by Mendel that led to his success
describe outcomes of monohybrid crosses involving simple dominance using Mendel’s explanations
distinguish between homozygous and heterozygous genotypes in monohybrid crosses
distinguish between the terms allele and gene, using examples
explain the relationship between dominant and recessive alleles and phenotype using examples
outline the reasons why the importance of Mendel’s work was not recognised until some time after it was published
Page 16
Students learn to: Students:
3. Chromosomal structure provides the key to inheritance
outline the roles of Sutton and Boveri in identifying the importance of chromosomes
process information from secondary sources to construct a model that demonstrates meiosis and the processes of crossing over, segregation of chromosomes and the production of haploid gametes
solve problems involving co-dominance and sex linkage
identify data sources and perform a first-hand investigation to demonstrate the effect of environment on phenotype
describe the chemical nature of chromosomes and genes
identify that DNA is a double-stranded molecule twisted into a helix with each strand comprised of a sugar-phosphate backbone and attached bases – adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C) and guanine (G) – connected to a complementary strand by pairing the bases, A-T and G-C
explain the relationship between the structure and behaviour of chromosomes during meiosis and the inheritance of genes
explain the role of gamete formation and sexual reproduction in variability of offspring
describe the inheritance of sex-linked genes, and alleles that exhibit co-dominance and explain why these do not produce simple Mendelian ratios
describe the work of Morgan that led to the understanding of sex linkage
explain the relationship between homozygous and heterozygous genotypes and the resulting phenotypes in examples of co-dominance
outline ways in which the environment may affect the expression of a gene in an individual
Page 17
Students learn to: Students: 4. The structure of
DNA can be changed and such changes may be reflected in the phenotype of the affected organism
describe the process of DNA replication and explain its significance
perform a first-hand investigation or process information from secondary sources to develop a simple model for polypeptide synthesis
analyse information from secondary sources to outline the evidence that led to Beadle and Tatum’s ‘one gene – one protein’ hypothesis and to explain why this was altered to the ‘one gene – one polypeptide’ hypothesis
process information to construct a flow chart that shows that changes in DNA sequences can result in changes in cell activity
process and analyse information from secondary sources to explain a modern example of ‘natural’ selection
process information from secondary sources to describe and analyse the relative importance of the work of: – James Watson – Francis Crick – Rosalind Franklin – Maurice Wilkins
in determining the structure of DNA and the impact of the quality of collaboration and communication on their scientific research
outline, using a simple model, the process by which DNA controls the production of polypeptides
explain the relationship between proteins and polypeptides
explain how mutations in DNA may lead to the generation of new alleles
discuss evidence for the mutagenic nature of radiation
explain how an understanding of the source of variation in organisms has provided support for Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection
describe the concept of punctuated equilibrium in evolution and how it differs from the gradual process proposed by Darwin
5. Current reproductive technologies and genetic engineering have the potential to alter the path of evolution
identify how the following current reproductive techniques may alter the genetic composition of a population: – artificial insemination – artificial pollination – cloning
process information from secondary sources to describe a methodology used in cloning
analyse information from secondary sources to identify examples of the use of transgenic species and use available evidence to debate the ethical issues arising from the development and use of transgenic species
outline the processes used to produce transgenic species and include examples of this process and reasons for its use
discuss the potential impact of the use of reproduction technologies on the genetic diversity of species using a named plant and animal example that have been genetically altered
Page 18
9.4 The Search for Better Health Contextual Outline When physiological processes malfunction, the body tries to repair the damage. The process is similar in all living things and it is only when the process fails to contain the damage that disease can be recognised. Humans have long recognised the symptoms of disease both in themselves and the animals and plants around them. Since the beginnings of recorded history, they have noted the signs that reveal that the body is malfunctioning. Increasing understanding of the causes of disease together with accompanying advances in technology have changed approaches to treatment and management of disease. The search for measures to treat and manage diseases of humans and other organisms continues and this search is paralleled by continued refinements in technology. This module increases students’ understanding of the history, nature and practice of biology, the applications and uses of biology, and the implications of biology for society and the environment. Students learn to: Students: 1. What is a healthy
organism? discuss the difficulties of defining the
terms ‘health’ and ‘disease’ use available evidence to analyse the
links between gene expression and maintenance and repair of body tissues
outline how the function of genes, mitosis, cell differentiation and specialisation assist in the maintenance of health
2. Over 3000 years ago the Chinese and Hebrews were advocating cleanliness in food, water and personal hygiene
distinguish between infectious and non-infectious disease
identify data sources, plan and choose equipment or resources to perform a first-hand investigation to identify microbes in food or in water
gather, process and analyse information from secondary sources to describe ways in which drinking water can be treated and use available evidence to explain how these methods reduce the risk of infection from pathogens
explain why cleanliness in food, water and personal hygiene practices assist in control of disease
identify the conditions under which an organism is described as a pathogen
Page 19
Students learn to: Students:
3. During the second half of the nineteenth century, the work of Pasteur and Koch and other scientists stimulated the search for microbes as causes of disease
describe the contribution of Pasteur and Koch to our understanding of infectious diseases
perform an investigation to model Pasteur’s experiment to identify the role of microbes in decay
gather and process information to trace the historical development of our understanding of the cause and prevention of malaria
distinguish between: − prions − viruses − bacteria − protozoans − fungi − macro-parasites and name one example of a disease caused by each type of pathogen
identify data sources, gather process and analyse information from secondary sources to describe one named infectious disease in terms of its: – cause – transmission – host response – major symptoms – treatment – prevention – control
identify the role of antibiotics in the management of infectious disease
process information from secondary sources to discuss problems relating to antibiotic resistance
4. Often we recognise an infection by the symptoms it causes. The immune response is not so obvious, until we recover
identify defence barriers to prevent entry of pathogens in humans: – skin – mucous membranes – cilia – chemical barriers – other body secretions
gather, process and present information from secondary sources to show how a named disease results from an imbalance of microflora in humans
identify antigens as molecules that trigger the immune response
explain why organ transplants should trigger an immune response
identify defence adaptations, including: – inflammation response – phagocytosis – lymph system – cell death to seal off pathogen
Page 20
Students learn to: Students:
5. MacFarlane Burnet’s work in the middle of the twentieth century contributed to a better understanding of the immune response and the effectiveness of immunisation programs
identify the components of the immune response: – antibodies – T cells – B cells
process, analyse and present information from secondary sources to evaluate the effectiveness of vaccination programs in preventing the spread and occurrence of once common diseases, including smallpox, diphtheria and polio describe and explain the immune
response in the human body in terms of: − interaction between B and T
lymphocytes − the mechanisms that allow
interaction between B and T lymphocytes
− the range of T lymphocyte types and the difference in their roles
outline the way in which vaccinations prevent infection
outline the reasons for the suppression of the immune response in organ transplant patients
6. Epidemiological studies involve the collection and careful statistical analysis of large quantities of data. Such studies assist the causal identification of non-infectious diseases
identify and describe the main features of epidemiology using lung cancer as an example
identify causes of non-infectious disease using an example from each of the following categories: – inherited diseases – nutritional deficiencies – environmental diseases
gather, process and analyse information to identify the cause and effect relationship of smoking and lung cancer
identify data sources, plan and perform a first-hand investigation or gather information from secondary sources to analyse and present information about the occurrence, symptoms, cause, treatment/management of a named non-infectious disease
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Students learn to: Students:
7. Increased understanding has led to the development of a wide range of strategies to prevent and control disease
discuss the role of quarantine in preventing the spread of disease and plants and animals into Australia or across regions of Australia
perform an investigation to examine plant shoots and leaves and gather first-hand information of evidence of pathogens and insect pests
explain how one of the following strategies has controlled and/or prevented disease: – public health programs – pesticides – genetic engineering to produce
disease-resistant plants and animals
process and analyse information from secondary sources to evaluate the effectiveness of quarantine in preventing the spread of plant and animal disease into Australia or across regions of Australia
gather and process information and use available evidence to discuss the changing methods of dealing with plant and animal diseases, including the shift in emphasis from treatment and control to management or prevention of disease
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9.5 Option — Communication Contextual Outline Humans are social animals and, as such, are in constant communication with others. Many animals have an extensive range of communication strategies that include both visual and vocal signals. Learning these signals relies heavily on the involvement of all the sensory organs as well as the brain. While the full range of senses can be involved in communication, the relative importance of each of the senses differs from animal to animal. This module focuses on the two senses that are important for many vertebrate and invertebrate animals – sight and hearing. Human cultural development exploded with the development of speech and the concurrent increasing complexity of communication. For some people, however, communication signals are not identified effectively because of faults in the sending, receiving or deciphering of some of the signals. With increasing advances in technology, assistance for people with difficulties in communicating continues to improve. This module increases students’ understanding of the history, applications and uses of biology, the implications of biology for society and the environment, and current issues, research and developments in biology.
Students learn to: Students: 1. Humans, and
other animals, are able to detect a range of stimuli from the external environment, some of which are useful for communication
identify the role of receptors in detecting stimuli
identify data sources, gather and process information from secondary sources to identify the range of senses involved in communication
explain that the response to a stimulus involves: − stimulus − receptor − messenger − effector − response
2. Visual communication involves the eye registering changes in the immediate environment
describe the anatomy and function of the human eye, including the: – conjunctiva – cornea – sclera – choroid – retina – iris – lens – aqueous and vitreous humor – ciliary body – optic nerve
plan, choose equipment or resources and perform a first-hand investigation of a mammalian eye to gather first-hand data to relate structures to functions
use available evidence to suggest reasons for the differences in range of electromagnetic radiation detected by humans and other animals
identify the limited range of wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum detected by humans and compare this range with those of other vertebrates and invertebrates
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Students learn to: Students:
3. The clarity of the signal transferred can affect interpretation of the intended visual communication
identify the conditions under which refraction of light occurs
plan, choose equipment or resources and perform a first-hand investigation to model the process of accommodation by passing rays of light through convex lenses of different focal lengths
analyse information from secondary sources to describe changes in the shape of the eye’s lens when focusing on near and far objects
process and analyse information from secondary sources to describe cataracts and the technology that can be used to prevent blindness from cataracts and discuss the implications of this technology for society
identify the cornea, aqueous humor, lens and vitreous humor as refractive media
identify accommodation as the focusing on objects at different distances, describe its achievement through the change in curvature of the lens and explain its importance
compare the change in the refractive power of the lens from rest to maximum accommodation
distinguish between myopia and hyperopia and outline how technologies can be used to correct these conditions.
explain how the production of two different images of a view can result in depth perception
4. The light
signal reaching the retina is transformed into an electrical impulse
identify photoreceptor cells as those containing light sensitive pigments and explain that these cells convert light images into electrochemical signals that the brain can interpret
describe the differences in distribution, structure and function of the photoreceptor cells in the human eye
outline the role of rhodopsin in rods identify that there are three types of
cones, each containing a separate pigment sensitive to either blue, red or green light
explain that colour blindness in humans results from the lack of one or more of the colour-sensitive pigments in the cones
process and analyse information from secondary sources to compare and describe the nature and functioning of photoreceptor cells in mammals, insects and in one other animal
process and analyse information from secondary sources to describe and analyse the use of colour for communication in animals and relate this to the occurrence of colour vision in animals
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Students learn to: Students:
5. Sound is also a very important communication medium for humans and other animals
explain why sound is a useful and versatile form of communication
plan and perform a first-hand investigation to gather data to identify the relationship between wavelength, frequency and pitch of a sound
gather and process information from secondary sources to outline and compare some of the structures used by animals other than humans to produce sound
explain that sound is produced by vibrating objects and that the frequency of the sound is the same as the frequency of the vibration of the source of the sound
outline the structure of the human larynx and the associated structures that assist the production of sound
6. Animals that produce vibrations also have organs to detect vibrations
outline and compare the detection of vibrations by insects, fish and mammals
gather, process and analyse information from secondary sources on the structure of a mammalian ear to relate structures to functions
process information from secondary sources to outline the range of frequencies detected by humans as sound and compare this range with two other mammals, discussing possible reasons for the differences identified
process information from secondary sources to evaluate a hearing aid and a cochlear implant in terms of: – the position and type of energy
transfer occurring – conditions under which the
technology will assist hearing – limitations of each technology
describe the anatomy and function of the human ear, including: – pinna – tympanic membrane – ear ossicles – oval window – round window – cochlea – organ of Corti – auditory nerve
outline the role of the Eustachian tube
outline the path of a sound wave through the external, middle and inner ear and identify the energy transformations that occur
describe the relationship between the distribution of hair cells in the organ of Corti and the detection of sounds of different frequencies
outline the role of the sound shadow cast by the head in the location of sound
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Students learn to: Students:
7. Signals from the eye and ear are transmitted as electro-chemical changes in the membranes of the optic and auditory nerves
identify that a nerve is a bundle of neuronal fibres
perform a first-hand investigation using stained prepared slides and/ or electron micrographs to gather information about the structure of neurones and nerves
perform a first-hand investigation to examine an appropriate mammalian brain or model of a human brain to gather information to distinguish the cerebrum, cerebellum and medulla oblongata and locate the regions involved in speech, sight and sound perception
present information from secondary sources to graphically represent a typical action potential
identify neurones as nerve cells that are the transmitters of signals by electro-chemical changes in their membranes
define the term ‘threshold’ and explain why not all stimuli generate an action potential
identify those areas of the cerebrum involved in the perception and interpretation of light and sound
explain, using specific examples, the importance of correct interpretation of sensory signals by the brain for the coordination of animal behaviour
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A Glossary of Key Words for HSC Syllabuses Account Account for: state reasons for, report on. Give an account of: narrate a series of events or transactions
Analyse Identify components and the relationship between them; draw out and relate implications
Apply Use, utilise, employ in a particular situation
Appreciate Make a judgement about the value of
Assess Make a judgement of value, quality, outcomes, results or size
Calculate Ascertain/ determine from given facts, figures or information
Clarify Make clear or plain
Classify Arrange or include in classes/ categories
Comment on Identify and write about the main issues, give reactions based on what you’ve read and/or researched
Compare Show how things are similar or different
Construct Make; build; put together item or arguments
Contrast Show how things are different or opposite
Critically (analysis/ evaluation)
Add a degree or level of accuracy depth, knowledge and understanding, logic, questioning, reflection and quality to (analysis/evaluation)
Deduce Draw conclusions
Define State meaning and identify essential qualities
Demonstrate Show by example
Describe Provide characteristics and features
Discuss Identify issues and provide points for and/ or against
Distinguish Recognise or note/ indicate as being distinct or different from; to note differences between
Evaluate Make a judgement based on criteria; determine the value of
Examine Inquire into
Explain Relate cause and effect; make the relationships between things evident; provide why and/or how
Explore Examine thoroughly, consider from a variety of viewpoints
Extract choose relevant and/ or appropriate details
Extrapolate Infer from what is known
How does By what means – consider the processes, techniques, steps and ideas behind the issue/s or concept/s
Identify Recognise and name
Illustrate Make something clear and explicit, giving examples and/or evidence
Interpret Draw meaning from
Investigate Plan, inquire into and draw conclusions about
Justify Support an argument or conclusion
Outline Sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of
Predict Suggest what may happen based on available information
Propose Put forward (for example a point of view, idea, argument, suggestion) for consideration or action
Recall Present remembered ideas, facts or experiences
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Recommend Provide reasons in favour
Recount Retell a series of events
Relate Show similarities and differences between items / concepts
Summarise Express, concisely, the relevant details
Synthesise Putting together various elements to make a whole
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