Download overview of biology unit 3 - msc-biology-2008

OVERVIEW OF BIOLOGY UNIT 3
VCE BIOLOGY OVERVIEW
STUDY SUMMARY
Biology 2006–2009
Rationale:
Biology is the study of living things from familiar, complex multi-cellular organisms
that live in the many different habitats of our biosphere to single celled microorganisms that live in seemingly inhospitable conditions. It is a study of the dynamic
relationships between living things, and their environment and the challenges of
survival. All living things have many structural and functional characteristics in
common, which can be used to classify and group organisms.
Modern biology draws on biochemistry, neuroscience, genetics, evolutionary biology,
behavioural science, and cell and molecular biology. It connects with physics,
chemistry, earth and space sciences in exploring the nature of past and present life,
and the possibility of life forms beyond our planet.
Students develop knowledge of bioscience and skills of science inquiry and the
values and attributes that will help them to consider issues and implications
associated with the application of biological techniques and technologies.
Overview Unit 3:
Unit 3: Signatures of life
This unit focuses on the study of molecules and biochemical processes that are
indicators of life and focuses on the structure of DNA, genes and the code for
production of proteins.
Each unit deals with specific content and is designed to enable students to achieve a
set of outcomes. Each outcome is described in terms of key knowledge. A set of key
skills is applicable to all units. The set of skills consists of the ability to:
• Investigate and inquire scientifically
• Apply biological understandings
• Communicate biological information and understandings
Outcomes:
Outcomes define what students will know and be able to do as a result of
undertaking the study.
Outcomes include a summary statement and the key knowledge that underpin them.
Only the summary statements have been reproduced below and must be read in
conjunction with the key knowledge and the set of key skills published in the study
design.
Unit 3: Signatures of life
In this unit students investigate the significant role of proteins in cell functioning.
They explore how technological advances have provided improved knowledge and
understanding of the roles proteins play in cell functions. The study of the structure
and function of DNA and RNA leads students to investigate the diversity of proteins.
Specific examples of the applications of molecular biology are included. Homeostasis,
signaling molecules and signal transduction are included in a study of coordination
and regulation. Immune responses, disorders of immune response and acquired
immunity are investigated. Applications of molecular biology are explored.
Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to analyse and evaluate
evidence from practical investigations related to biochemical processes.
Outcome 2
On completion of this unit the student should be able to describe and explain
coordination and regulation of an organism’s immune responses to antigens at the
molecular level.
Levels of Achievement:
Units 3 and 4
The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority will supervise the assessment of
all students undertaking Units 3 and 4. In Biology the student’s level of achievement
will be determined by school-assessed coursework, a mid-year examination and an
end-of-year examination. Percentage contributions to the study score in Biology are
as follows:
•
•
•
•
Unit 3 school-assessed coursework: 17 per cent
Mid-year examination: 33 per cent
Unit 4 school-assessed coursework: 17 per cent
End-of-year examination: 33 per cent
VCE BIOLOGY: UNIT 3 COURSE OUTLINE:
Week
1
Area of Study
Key knowledge
Possible
Practical
Activities
1. Molecules of life
* the chemical nature of
the cell
- synthesis of biomacromolecules, polysaccharide,
nucleic acids & proteins.
* Summarise & create a
3D
display
of
this
information
by
constructing a series of
creative cubes.
* Examine the structure &
specialization of a variety
of
cells
using
light
microscope. Identify the
ways cells are specialized
for biosynthesis.
1. Molecules of life
* the chemical nature of
the cell
- the structure & function
of lipids.
- the structure & function
of DNA & RNA.
the
structure
&
functional
diversity
of
proteins: the proteome.
* Create a concept map to
display the structure and
functional
diversity
of
proteins.
04 – 08/02
2
11 – 15/02
Assessment
Tasks
1. Molecules of life
* the role of organelles &
plasma membranes in the
packaging & transport of
biomolecules.
* Draw & label a diagram
of plasma membrane to
show the biomolecular
composition.
* PRAC: Damage to a
Plasma membrane.
*
OUTCOME
1
Assessment Task 1:
Movement through a
differentially
permeable membrane.
1. Molecules of life
*
the
nature
of
biochemical processes
- enzymes as organic
catalysts.
- energy requirements of
cells; catabolic & anabolic
reactions.
* Construct a ‘compare &
contrast’ chart outlining
the
similarities
&
differences
between
catabolic
&
anabolic
reactions.
*
OUTCOME
1
–
Assessment Task 2:
Enzymes in Action &
Enzyme Activity.
1. Molecules of life
*
the
nature
of
biochemical processes
- energy transformations:
main stages in & sites of
photosynthesis.
* Prepare an annotated
diagram of a chloroplast to
show the main stages &
sites of photosynthesis.
1. Molecules of life
*
the
nature
of
biochemical processes
- energy transformations
main stages in & sites of
cellular respiration; ATPADP
cycle;
factors
* Draw an annotated
diagram
of
a
mitochondrion to show the
main stages in cellular
respiration.
3
18 – 22/02
4
25 – 29/02
5
03 – 07/03
6
10 – 14/03
1. Molecules of life
7
17 – 20/03
8
2.
Detecting
responding
07 – 11/04
9
14 – 18/04
2.
Detecting
responding
affecting rate of energy
transformations.
* applications of molecular
biology
in
medicine
including the design of
drugs
&
in
medical
diagnosis.
* Research online & write
an article that describes a
technique that is used by
scientists in the field of
biotechnology
&
the
advances that are being
made as a result of its
application.
& *
coordination
& * PRAC – Temperature
regulation
regulation in humans.
- stability & change in the
internal environment.
principles
of
homeostasis:
stimulusresponse
model
&
negative feedback model;
roles
of
nervous
&
endocrine systems.
& *
coordination
& * Research the effects of
regulation
neurological
drugs on
- signaling molecules: synaptic function. Present
the information as an
neurotransmitters,
illustrated poster or ICT
hormones, pheromones.
signal
transduction: presentation.
signals,
membrane
receptors; responses.
10
2.
Detecting
responding
& *
coordination
&
regulation
- signaling molecules:
plant growth regulators.
* PRAC – Plant Hormones.
Investigate the effect of
hormones on plant growth
& development.
2.
Detecting
responding
& * detecting ‘self’ & ‘nonself’ molecules: antigens &
membrane receptors
- pathogens: non-cellular
agents; controls.
*
PRAC
–
Internal
Parasites.
Examine disease-causing
organisms microscopically
& macroscopically.
2.
Detecting
responding
& * physical & chemical * Conduct an investigation
barriers to infection in of the effects of antibiotics
plants & animals.
&
disinfectants
on
bacterial growth.
2.
Detecting
responding
& * immune response
- structure & overall
function of the lymphatic
system.
non-specific:
inflammatory
response;
phagocytosis;
blood
clotting.
21 – 25/04
11
28 – 02/05
12
05 – 09/05
13
12 – 16/05
* Design a series of
annotated diagrams or
computer-based
simulation outlining the
human immune system.
*
OUTCOME
2
–
Assessment Task 1:
Pimple Practical (2nd
hand data exercise).
14
2.
Detecting
responding
19 – 23/05
15
2.
Detecting
responding
specific
immune
response:
T-cell
lymphocytes
&
cellmediated response.
& * immune response
specific
immune
response:
B-cell
lymphocytes & humoral
response,
antigens
&
antibodies; memory cells.
* Design & create a model
to
demonstrate
how
antibodies & antigens
work.
Give a presentation to the
class group.
and * disorders of the immune
response: autoimmunity;
hypersensitivity, allergens
& allergic responses.
*
OUTCOME
2
–
Assessment Task 2:
Using print & electronic
resources to research &
prepare a report on a
disorder of the immune
system,
highlighting
the
related
mechanisms of
the
immune response &
the
cellular
involvement.
26 – 20/05
16
12 – 06/06
2.
Detecting
responding
& *
acquired
immunity: *
PRAC
–
natural, artificial including immunity
vaccines
&
antibody vaccination.
serums
Acquired
through
17
REVISION FOR JUNE EXAMINATION
09 – 13/06
JUNE EXAMINATION
OUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:
In order to ensure we work together in a stimulating and productive
learning community throughout 2008 it is really important that we
consider the following:
HOW CAN WE LEARN WELL HERE?
HOW CAN WE SHOW RESPECT TO ONE ANOTHER?
HOW CAN WE FEEL SAFE HERE?
Taking these thoughts into mind and action will ensure we get the most
from our studies and assist us in building productive learning relationships.
Each week our time together will incorporate a range of learning
opportunities and styles. These will include group learning (notes from these
sessions will be displayed in our room); tutorial sessions (time to discuss
tasks, questions & answers to course tasks); practical sessions; and
podcasting (a chance to take up the opportunity to download summaries
and additional resources to compliment your studies and understanding).