Download VCE BIOLOGY 2011 LARA SECONDARY COLLEGE COURSE

VCE BIOLOGY 2011
LARA SECONDARY COLLEGE
COURSE OUTLINE
UNIT
3
UNIT
Signatures of Life
This unit examines the molecules and biochemical processes that are essential for life.
DNA and gene expression, protein structure /
function and associated technologies are
explored. Cellular communication, including
the immune systems response to pathogens
is investigated, as well as the impact bioinformation stores have on our understanding
of living things and their molecular make up.
Practical investigations, second hand data
reports, exams and annotated posters form
the assessment for this unit.
4
Continuity and Change
This unit explores evidence for the evolution
of life over time. Observable differences,
DNA and the conservation of genes are
presented as markers of ancestral lines
which lead to the diversity of life today.
Genomics and the relationship between
species is examined, as are patterns of
inheritance and changes in species over
time. The historical development of ideas is
studied in relation to scientific advances, as
are technologies associated with the genetic
altering of species and related ethical issues.
Investigative reports, exams and annotated
posters form the assessment for this unit.
UNIT 3
Week begin Content
2
7/2
Course Structure and Focus. Cells and their
chemical nature. Talking Molecules
3
14/2
Cells and their chemical nature. Talking
Molecules 2. The plasma membrane & lipids
4
21/2
The plasma membrane and lipids. How
substances move across membranes.
5
28/2
Polymeric Biomacromolecules: making
complex carbohydrates, nucleic acids and
proteins. Levels of protein structure.
6
7/3
Catalytic Proteins: the how and why of
enzyme action. Enzyme inhibition.
7
14/3
The nature and regulation of biochemical
pathways. Energy Requirements.
8
21/3
Photosynthesis: Inputs and Outputs
9
28/3
Respiration: Inputs and Outputs
10
4/3
Holiday
11 25/4
12
2/5
13
9/5
Assessment
SAC 1(a) Movement through
differentially permeable
membranes.
SAC 1(b) Conditions needed
for effective enzyme action.
Making connections and applying knowledge:
Rational drug Design
Applying the stimulus response model. Types
of signals. Examples.
The stimulus response model applied to the
cell: the signal transduction pathway.
Detecting and responding to non-self. Disease
SAC 2(a) Detecting and
14
16/5
15
23/5
16
17
30/5
6/6
18
13/6
1
2
20/6
27/6
causing organisms / agents
ECOLINC EXCURSION FOR SAC
Physical Barriers. The Innate Immune
Response: Components / Actions
The Inflammatory Response.
The Lymphatic System. The Adaptive
Immune Response: Components / Actions
Immunity & Vaccines. Applying Knowledge.
Review Course
responding to Changing
Environmental Conditions.
SAC 2(b) The immune
response (annotated poster or
powerpoint presentation)
EXAM WEEK
Begin Unit 4
The cell cycle in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
The nature of chromosomes and their
behaviour in cell division
Holiday
Key Skills to Develop
Investigate and inquire scientifically
• formulate questions and construct hypotheses appropriate for conducting first-hand and secondhand investigations;
• plan, design and conduct first-hand investigations: select and use equipment and materials
appropriate to the investigation; evaluate experimental procedures and reliability of data;
• collect, process and record information systematically; analyse and synthesise data; draw
conclusions consistent with the question under investigation and the evidence obtained;
• act responsibly when conducting investigations: maintain safe practices; work independently and
collaboratively as appropriate.
Apply biological understandings
• apply understandings to familiar and new contexts; make connections between concepts; solve
problems;
• analyse issues and implications relating to scientific and technological developments;
• analyse and evaluate the reliability of information and opinions presented in the public domain.
Communicate biological information and understandings
• interpret, transpose and communicate information and ideas effectively;
• use techniques of communication appropriate to different audiences and purposes;
• use scientific terminology and conventions appropriately.