Course Overview:
This course explains the basics of biology, from the classification of species to the sustenance of life on earth. This course discusses the Taxonomic and Biological classification of the living organisms. It details the structure and life cycle of plants, bacteria and virus. The course details the structure and functions of various organs of the human body explaining the organs and organ system hierarchy. The course moves on to detail the ecosystems, ecology and their balance. Trophic levels, Food webs and food chains that shape the energy circulation of the ecosystem is covered. The course delves into the different cycles of the ecosystem explaining the importance of Carbon, Nitrogen and Oxygen cycle. The course concludes with a case study on Global Warming – causes, effects and human factors that contribute to the growing temperatures around the world.
Note: This course is not designed for ELL (English Language Learners) students. ELL students may enroll in this course ONLY if they have adequate mentor support at their home school and are able to fulfill all course requirements.
Prerequisites:
Required Materials:
- Water
- Store-bought yoghurt with live cultures
- Whole Milk
- 1 thick-bottomed pot
- Glass jars
- Wooden stirring spoon
- Cooking thermometer
- Permanent Marker
- Tablespoon
- Access to a working kitchen oven
- Sticky notes
- Knitting Needles
- Ice Cubes
- Play-Doh
- Clear glass cups
- Ruler
- A sheet to record data (lab sheet)
Syllabus:
Section 1: Taxonomy and Classification
- Introduction to Taxonomy and Classification
- Taxonomy
- Hierarchical Classification Based on Similarities and Differences
- Taxonomic Groups – Archaea
- Taxonomic Groups – Bacteria
- Taxonomic Groups – Protists
- Taxonomic Groups – Fungi
- Taxonomic Groups – Plants
- Taxonomic Groups – Animals
Section 2: Plant, Bacteria and Virus
- Structure of a Plant
- Photosynthesis
- Structure of Bacteria
- Structure of Viruses
Section 3: Human Body
- The Human Body: An Introduction
- Musculo-Skeletal (MSK) System
- Circulatory System
- Digestive System & Excretory System
- Nervous System and Sense Organs
- Endocrine System and Reproductive System
- The Immune System
- Interactionsin the Human System
Section 4: Ecosystems and Ecology
- Introduction to Ecology and Ecosystems
- Ecosystems and Biomes
- Biodiversity and Species Interdependence
- Ecosystem Relationships
- Environmental Accommodation and Evolutionary Adaptations
- Trophic Levels - Food Chain, Food Web and Ecological Pyramids
Section 5: Cycles in Ecosystem and Global Warming
- Different Cycles in the Ecosystem: Water and Carbon Cycle
- Different Cycles in the Ecosystem: Oxygen, Hydrogen and Nitrogen Cycle
- Global Warming: Sustaining Biodiversity
- Global Warming: System’s Perspective
- Global Warming: Conservation of Energy
- Global Warming: Human Activity
