Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
AUGUST (Nature of Science) | ||||
Nature of Science
Standard 10: Students shall demonstrate an understanding that science is a way of knowing.
Explain why science is limited to natural explanations of how the world works
NS.10. B.1 Explain why science is limited to natural explanations of how the world works
NS.10. B.2 Compare and contrast hypotheses, theories, and laws
NS.10. B.3 Distinguish between a scientific theory and the term “theory” used in general conversation
NS.10. B.4 Summarize the guidelines of science: A. Explanations are based on observations, evidence, and testing B. Hypotheses must be testable C. Understandings and/or conclusions may change with additional empirical data D. Scientific knowledge must have peer review and verification before acceptance Standard 11: Students shall design and safely conduct scientific inquiry
NS.11. B.1 Develop and explain the appropriate procedure, controls, and variables (dependent and independent) in scientific experimentation
NS.11. B.2 Research and apply appropriate safety precautions (refer to ADE Guidelines) when designing and/or conducting scientific investigations
NS.11. B.3 Identify sources of bias that could affect experimental outcome
NS.11. B.4 Gather and analyze data using appropriate summary statistics
NS.11. B.5 Formulate valid conclusions without bias
NS.11. B.6 Communicate experimental results using appropriate reports, figures, and tables
Standard 12: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of current life science theories.
NS.12.B.1 Recognize that theories are scientific explanations that require empirical data, verification, and peer review
NS.12.B.2 Understand that scientific theories may be modified or expanded based on additional empirical data, verification, and peer review
Standard 13: Students shall use mathematics, science equipment, and technology as tools to communicate and solve life science problems NS.13.B.1. Collect and analyze scientific data using appropriate mathematical calculations, figures, and tables
NS.13.B.2 Use appropriate equipment and technology as tools for solving problems (e.g., microscopes, centrifuges, flexible arm cameras, computer software and hardware)
NS.13.B.3 Utilize technology to communicate research findings
Standard 14: Students shall describe the connections between pure and applied science.
NS.14.B.1 Compare and contrast biological concepts in pure science and applied science NS.14.B.2 Discuss why scientists should work within ethical parameters
Standard 15: Students shall describe various life science careers and the training required for the selected career
NS.15.B.1 Research and evaluate science careers using the following criteria: educational requirements salary availability of jobs working conditions
| Nature of Science
The major content themes of biology Ø Matter and Energy Ø Cells Ø Interdependence Ø Reproduction and Inheritance Ø Evolution Ø Homeostasis and Stability What science is and is not Ø Deals only with natural world Ø Explanations can be tested Ø Explanations are used to make predictions Ø Is revised to account for new evidence Ø Also refers to a body of knowledge that has accumulated after repeated attempts to verify/refute
Process of science Ø Starts with observation Ø Form inferences Ø Develop hypotheses Ø Test hypotheses Ø Form Theories
Hypotheses vs. theories vs. laws Ø What if statements Ø Researched, hypothesized and tested Ø Statements of occurrences in natural world Ø Peer collaboration Ø Peer verification
Designing an Experiment Ø Stating the problem Ø Forming hypotheses Ø Setting up controlled experiment Ø Recording and analyzing results Ø Drawing conclusions Ø Science Fair Proposals
Graphing Ø How raw data must be organized to reveal patterns Ø How to take data and create charts Ø Using charts to create graphs Ø Interpret results by what is seen and not what it is thought to be
Analyzing data includes Ø Understanding slope and rates of change Ø Extrapolating information from graphs Ø Recognizing patterns in data plots Ø The role of dependent and independent variables
A theory is more than a guess Ø It involves research Ø Tested hypothesis Ø Peer review Ø Must be repeatable Ø May combine several ideas Ø Ex. Plate Tectonic Theory and how it developed
The tools of science are Ø Mathematics Ø The metric system Ø Various lab equipment Ø Data collecting equipment Ø Rulers Ø Calculators Ø Computers
The role of science in society Ø Science leads to changes in technology Ø the goal of science is to improve human condition Ø Life has value and should be respected even during research Ø Pure science is research that leads to the research being applied or used for the good of humankind
Careers in science
Ø What are some of the various life science careers? Ø What kind of training does it take to be a life scientist? Ø What are the working conditions and compensation for being a life scientist? | Nature of Science Essential Question: How can you use the same skills and strategies as a scientist to learn about your world? Guiding Questions 1. What is the importance of the major themes of biology?
2. What is the role of experimental design in biology? 3. What systematic procedures are necessary to investigate biological problems? 4. What are important tools used in the study of biology? 5. What are useful data types and how are they analyzed? 6. What important mathematical manipulations should be performed on qualitative data? 7. Why is the scientific method a logical process for observing the natural world 8. What is the difference between a hypothesis and a theory? 9. Why it is important to acknowledge that science is a human endeavor, not separate from society but a part of society? 10. In what ways do scientists make accommodations for differences in racial, social, and ethnic backgrounds among scientists?
11. What are some of the various roles that science plays in society, especially in the workforce? |
Experimental Design Presentation Rubrics
Scientific Method Lab Vitruvian Man
Careers in Life Science Term Paper and Presentation
Liquid Volume Lab OR Volume Lab
Mystery Canisters OR Length Lab
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Literacy Items (found in Biology Literacy Notebook):
“Owls use dung to “Fish” for Beetles”
“Distinguishing Science and Pseudoscience”
“Scientific Laws, Hypotheses, and Theories”
“ Experimental Design Reference”
“Natural plant defenses-fight or flight?”
“Suicide grasshoppers -Brainwashed by Parasite Worms”
“Toads that Go Pop in the night”
“Weapons of Mouse Destruction?”
“A Weed, a Fly, a Mouse and a Chain of Unintended Consequences"
“Device Uses Sewage Bacteria to Produce Electricity”
“Locusts Inspire Technology That May Prevent Car Crashes”
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UNIT TEST over NATURE of SCIENCE | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
SEPTEMBER (Ecology & Biochemistry) | ||||
Ecological and Biological Relationships
Standard 8: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of ecological and behavioral relationships among organisms.
EBR.8. B.1 Cite examples of abiotic and biotic factors of ecosystems. EBR.8. B.2 Compare and contrast the characteristics of biomes. EBR.8. B.3 Diagram the carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, and water cycles in an ecosystem. EBR.8. B.4 Analyze an ecosystem’s energy flow through food chains, food webs, and energy pyramids. EBR. 8. B.5 Identify and predict the factors that control population, including predation, competition, crowding, water, nutrients, and shelter. EBR.8 B.6 Summarize the symbiotic ways in which individuals within a community interact with each other: commensalisms, parasitism and mutualism EBR.8. B.7 Compare and contrast primary succession with secondary succession. EBR.8. B.8 Identify the properties of each of the five levels of ecology: organism, population ,community ,ecosystem and biosphere MC 2.B.6 Compare and contrast the functions of autotrophs and heterotrophs
Standard 9: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of ecological impact of global issues.
EBR.9. B.1
Analyze the effects of human population growth and technology on the Environment/biosphere. EBR.9. B.2 Evaluate long range plans concerning resource use and by-product disposal in terms of their environmental, economic, and political impact. EBR.9. B.3 Assess current world issues applying scientific themes (e.g., global changes in climate, epidemics, pandemics, ozone depletion, UV radiation, natural resources, use of technology, and public policy). | Ecology
Levels of Organization Ø biosphere Biome Ecosystem Community Population Organism Species
Energy flow Ø Autotroph vs. Heterotroph Ø Producers: photosynthesis and chemosynthesis Ø Consumers: herbivore, carnivore, detritivore, omnivore, decomposer Ø Feeding relationships: food chain vs. food web Ø Energy conversion and transfer by trophic levels
Biosphere recycling Ø Water cycle Ø Nutrient cycles: Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorous Ecosystem productivity and biomass
Factors shaping ecosystems: Ø Climate zones and Greenhouse phenomenon Ø Biotic and Abiotic factors Ø Niche concept Ø Community interactions: competition, predation, symbiotic interactions (commensalisms, mutualism, parasitism)
Succession Ø Primary succession and pioneer species Ø Secondary succession
Biomes Ø Identify defining characteristics of each Ø Terrestrial biomes: tropical rain and dry forests, savanna, desert, grassland, temperate woodland and shrubland, temperate forests, coniferous forests, boreal (taiga) forests, tundra Ø Aquatic ecosystems: Ø Freshwater – flowing, standing, Ø Wetland Ø Estuary Ø Marine – photic vs. aphotic Ø Zones, intertidal, coastal, coral Ø Reef, open ocean, benthic zone
Population growth Ø Factors affecting and limiting growth Ø Density-dependent and density independent factors Ø Carrying capacity vs. exponential growth Ø Describe human population growth, analyze age structures, describe how humans growth has affected other species
Human impact on the environment: Ø Biodiversity threat Ø 6th mass extinction Ø pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion, and greenhouse affect Ø global warming Ø exotic (introduced) species Ø conservation efforts and how individuals can affect change | Ecology Essential Question How are all living things connected to one another and to the universe?
Guiding Questions
1. How are the biotic factors of an ecosystem different from the abiotic factors? 2. What are the biotic and abiotic factors present in a temperate deciduous forest? 3. What is the general climate in each of the 7 major biomes? 4. What role does the climate play in determining the types of organisms that can live in specific biomes? 5. How does carbon enter the living part of the carbon cycle? 6. How does carbon re-enter the environment from living things? 7. How does nitrogen cycle from the environment into living things? 8. How does water enter and exit the biotic part of the water cycle? 9. How does energy cycle through an ecosystem? 10. What are some specific factors that limit growth of animal populations? 11. What are three types of symbiotic relationships between organisms? Give an example of each type or relationship. 12. How does primary succession differ from secondary succession? 13. How do humans impact the carbon cycle and what are the global consequences? 14. What factors should be taken into consideration when deciding the location for a new landfill? 15. What human activities have impacted the ozone layer? 16. Why is sustainable use of natural resources important? |
Ecology Labs:
Population Ecology Lab (Goldfish)
Food Web Construction and Manipulation Lab
Biomes Brochures (Science-net)
Loss of Vegetation Lab (trophic interaction)
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HOLT INTERACTIVE "Ecosystem Dynamics"
Literacy Materials (Ecology):
“Soil Fertility in Agricultural Systems”
“ A Diverse Ecosystem Offers Little or No Protection Against Invading Species”
“Earth’s Uncanned Crusaders: Will Sardines Save Our Skin?”
“A melting Glacier in Tibet serves as an Example and a Warning”
“Overfishing is Emptying World’s Rivers, Lakes, Experts Warn”
“Global Warming is Spurring Evolution, Study Says”
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UNIT TEST over ECOLOGY | ||||
Biochemistry
Standard 1: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of the role of chemistry in life processes.
MC.1.B.1
Describe the structure and function of the major organic molecules found in living systems: Carbohydrates Proteins Lipids Nucleic Acids MC.1.B.2 Investigate the properties and importance of water and its significance for life: · surface tension · adhesion · cohesion · polarity · pH MC. 1.B.3 Describe the relationship between an enzyme and its substrate molecule(s) MC. 1.B.4 Explain the role of energy in chemical reactions of living systems: activation energy exergonic reactions endergonic reactions | Biochemistry
Review basic chemistry concepts: Ø atomic structure Ø bonding Ø covalent, ionic, hydrogen Ø elements and isotopes
Carbon Ø chemistry of carbon Ø macromolecules of life – identify and describe structure (monomers) and examples of polymers Ø lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, Ø nucleic acids
Chemistry of water: Ø polarity Ø hydrogen bonding Ø water properties Ø solutions and suspensions Ø pH – acids and bases and buffers Enzymes Ø reactions and activation energy Ø enzymes as catalysts Ø 3-D structure of enzymes Ø examples of enzymes Ø how enzymes work Ø regulation of enzymes | Biochemistry Essential Question How do molecules sustain living things?
Guiding Questions 1. What are the major groups of organic compounds and how do they function in living things? 2. What is an enzyme and how does it function in cells? 3. Why is water essential to life? 4. What are the distinguishing chemical and physical properties of water? |
Biochemistry Labs:
Modeling the Chemistry of Carbohydrates
Chemistry of Amino Acids and Proteins (models)
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Literacy Articles over Biochemistry:
“Enzyme may aid people with Alzheimer’s Disease”
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UNIT TEST over BIOCHEMISTRY | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
OCTOBER (Cell Structure and Function) | ||||
Cell Structure and Function Nature of Science Standard 12 Students shall demonstrate an understanding of current life science theories. NS.12.B.4. Relate the development of the cell theory to current trends in cellular biology.
Molecules and Cells
Standard 2: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of cells. MC 2.B.1 Construct a hierarchy of life from cells to ecosystems. MC 2.B.2 Compare and contrast prokaryotes and eukaryotes. MC 2. B.3 Describe the role of sub-cellular structures (organelles, ribosomes, & cytoskeleton) in the life of a cell. MC.2.B.5 Compare and contrast the structures of an animal cell to a plant cell.
MC 2.B.4 Relate the function of the plasma (cell) membrane to its structure. MC. 2.B.11 Discuss homeostasis using thermoregulation as an example. MC.2. B. 7 Compare and contrast active transport and passive transport mechanisms: Diffusion Osmosis Endocytosis Exocytosis Phagocytosis Pinocytosis | Cell Structure and Function
Cell structure and function Ø History: Hooke, van Leeuwenhoek Ø History: cell theory (Schleiden, Schwann, Virchow) Ø Symbiotic theory: Margulis
Ø Levels of Organization Atoms -> Molecules->Cells-> Tissue->Organ->Organ System->Organism->Species->Population-> Community->Ecosystem->Biome->Biosphere
Ø Eukaryotes vs. Prokaryotes o Be able to compare and contrast
Eukaryotic cell structure o Organelles o Cytoplasm o Nucleus o Compare plant vs animal cell o Levels of organization
Microscope use: Ø Identify parts of a microscope Ø Make specimen slides Ø Identify parts of cell
Cell membrane structure and function Ø Lipid bilayer Ø Cell wall Ø Diffusion through Ø Osmosis Ø Active transport Ø Homeostasis | Cells Essential question What are the activities cells carry out that are necessary to sustain life?
Guiding Questions 1. The invention of what important tools led to the formation of the cell theory? 2. What is the cell theory? What evidence supports the cell theory? 3. What are prokaryotic cells? 4. What are eukaryotic cells? 5. How do prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells compare? 6. What organelles are found in eukaryotic cells? 7. What is the function of each organelle? 8. What is the difference between animal and plant cells?
Plasma Membrane Essential Question: How does the Plasma membrane function as the gateway of a cell?
1. How do the responsibilities of cells in multi cellular organisms compare to the cells that comprise single-celled organisms? 2. What is the composition of the cell (plasma) membrane? 3. What are the processes that allow materials to enter and exit the cell? 4. What is homeostasis? 5. How do cells maintain homeostasis? |
Use of Microscope & Techniques For Better Use
Osmosis/Diffusion from AP lab book
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HOLT INTERACTIVE "Cell Transport and Homeostasis"
Literacy Materials over Cells:
“How Human Cells Get Their Marching Orders”
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UNIT TEST over CELL STRUCTURE and FUNCTION | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
NOVEMBER (Metabolism & Cell Division) | ||||
Cell Metabolism & The Cell Cycle Standard 3: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of how cells obtain and use energy. (Energetics) MC.3.B.1 Compare and contrast the structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts. MC.3 B.4 Describe and model the conversion of light energy to chemical energy by photosynthetic organisms (light dependent & independent reactions). MC.3.B.5 Compare and contrast cellular respiration and photosynthesis as energy conversion pathways. MC.3.B.2 Describe and model the conversion of stored energy (glycolysis, citric acid cycle, electron transport chain) in organic molecules into usable cellular energy (ATP). Standard 2: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of cells. MC.3.B.3 Compare and contrast aerobic and anaerobic respiration (lactic acid and alcoholic fermentation). MC.3.B.4 Describe and model the conversion of light energy to chemical energy by photosynthetic organisms: light dependent reactions light independent reactions
The Cell Cycle MC.2.B.8 Describe the main events in the cell cycle (mitosis, interphase, & cytokinesis), including the differences in plant and animal cell division. MC.2.B.9 List in order and describe the stages of mitosis (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, & telophase). MC.2.B.10 Analyze the meiotic maintenance of a constant chromosome number from one generation to the next. | Cell Metabolism & The Cell Cycle Photosynthesis Ø Explain where plants get energy to produce food Ø Describe the role of ATP in cellular activities
Photosynthesis overview: Ø Experiments of van Helmont, Priestley, Ingenhousz Ø Photosynthesis equation Ø Describe role of light and chlorophyll
Photosynthesis reactions Ø Describe structure and function of chloroplast Ø Light-dependent reactions – describe what happens Ø Light-independent reactions – describe Calvin cycle Ø Identify factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis
Cellular respiration Ø Chemical pathways o Explain what cellular respiration is o Describe what happens during glycolysis and products produced o Name and describe two main types of fermentation Ø Krebs cycle and Electron transport o Describe what happens during Krebs cycle and products produced o Explain how high-energy electrons are used in transport chain o Identify pathways the body uses to release energy during exercise
Compare photosynthesis and cellular respiration
Cell cycle and Growth/Division Ø Describe and identify typical stages in cell’s life cycle Ø Somatic cell reproduction o Mitotic stages, identify and describe Ø Gamete production o Meiosis, identify and describe stages o Spermatogenesis vs. Oogenesis Ø Compare mitosis and meiosis Ø Regulation of cell cycle Ø How do cancer cells differ from other cells | Metabolism Essential Question Why do living things make or eat food?
Guiding Questions 1. How is the sun the ultimate source of energy for all living things? 2. How do organisms produce and use energy?
3. What is cellular fuel?
4. What are the reactants and products of respiration?
5. What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration?
6. What is the role of ATP in photosynthesis and respiration?
Mitosis & Meiosis Essential Question: How do cells grow, divide, and make new cells?
Guiding Questions
1. What are mitosis and meiosis and which cells perform each process? 2. How does the chromosome number in parent cell and daughter cells differ with regards to mitosis and meiosis? 3. What is the difference in the way plant and animals undergo cell division? 4. How does crossing over act as the genetic mechanism for diversity? |
Cellular Energetics Open Response Items:
“How do certain living things use sunlight to make food and why are they eaten?”
Compare and Contrast Respiration vs. Photosynthesis. Be sure to include the cell structures involved in each and how energy flows from the sun through living things.
Compare/Contrast Mitosis & Meiosis Write a short essay comparing the two cell division processes — mitosis and meiosis. Be sure to include all steps in both processes, the type of cells that use each process, starting and ending chromosome numbers, etc.
Respiration & Photosynthesis Labs: Chromatography/ Photosynthesis lab from AP book
Respiration of Germinating Seeds Lab
Mitosis & Meiosis Labs:
Cell Reproduction/ Mitosis Flip-Book
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HOLT INTERACTIVE" Cellular Respiration"
HOLT INTERACTIVE "Photosynthesis"
HOLT INTERACTIVE "Cell Reproduction"
Literacy Materials for Cellular Metabolism:
“Lactic Acid Is Not Muscles’ Foe, It’s Fuel”
“Modified Mice Stay Super-fit”
“Source of Half Earth’s Oxygen Gets Little Credit”
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UNIT TEST over METABOLISM and CELL DIVISION | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
DECEMBER (Heredity & Evolution) | ||||
Heredity and Evolution
Standard 4: Students shall demonstrate an understanding of heredity.
HE.4.B.1 Summarize the outcomes of Gregor Mendel’s experimental procedures. HE.4.B.2 Differentiate among the laws and principles of inheritance (dominance, segregation, independent assortment). HE.4.B.3 Use the laws of probability and Punnett squares to predict genotypic and phenotypic ratios. HE.4.B.4Examine different modes of inheritance sex linkage codominance crossing over incomplete dominance multiple alleles
HE.4.B.5 Analyze the historically significant work of prominent geneticists. HE.4.B.6 Evaluate karyotypes for abnormalities such as monosomy & trisomy. | Genetics
The work of Gregor Mendel Ø Describe Mendel’s work and summarize his conclusions Ø Explain principle of dominance Ø Law of segregation and independent assortment
Probability Ø Describe what probability is Ø Explain how probability is used in genetics Ø Construct and read Punnett Squares
Patterns of inheritance Ø Simple dominance Ø Co-dominance Ø Incomplete dominance Ø X-linked Ø Pedigree and karyotypes o Mutations/diseases | Genetics Essential Question Why do living things not look the same?
Guiding Questions: 1. What are Mendel’s laws of heredity? 2. What are genotype and phenotype? 3. How do the terms heterozygous, homozygous, dominant and recessive relate to Mendelian genetics 4. What are the potential effects of genetic recombination and mutation on organisms? |
Genetics Labs:
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Literacy Materials for Genetics:
“ Gene Study Identifies 5 Main Human Populations, Linking Them to Geography”
“Still Evolving , Human Genes Tell New Story”
“Without Gene, timid Mice Turn into Daredevils”
“Study Offers New Insight Into Why Learning Disorders Are Genetic”
“Early Risers have Mutated Gene, Study Says”
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UNIT TEST over GENETICS | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
JANUARY (Molecular Basis of Heredity) | ||||
Standard 5: Students shall investigate the molecular basis of genetics. HE.5.B.1 Model the components of a DNA nucleotide and an RNA nucleotide. HE.5.B.2 Describe the Watson-Crick double helix model of DNA, using the base-pairing rule (adenine-thymine, cytosine-guanine). HE.5.B.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of DNA and RNA. HE.5.B.4 Describe and model the processes of replication, transcription, and translation. HE.5.B.5 Compare and contrast the different types of mutation events, including point mutation, frameshift mutation, deletion, and inversion. HE.5.B.6 Identify effects of changes brought about by mutations (beneficial, harmful, & neutral). Molecules and Cells Standard 1 MC.1.B.1 Describe the structure and function of nucleic acids found in living systems. Nature of Science Standard 12 NS.12.B.6 Relate the chromosome theory of heredity to recent findings in genetic research (e.g., Human Genome Project-HGP, chromosome therapy). NS.12.B.7 Research current events and topics in Biology
Standard 6: Students shall examine the development of the theory of biological evolution. HE.6.B.1 Compare & contrast Lamarck’s explanation of evolution with HE.6.B.2 Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. HE.6.B.3 Recognize that evolution involves a change in allele frequencies in a population across successive generations. HE.6.B.4 Analyze the effects of mutations and the resulting variations within a population in terms of natural selection. HE.6.B.5 Illustrate mass extinction events using a time line. HE.6.B.6 Evaluate evolution in terms of evidence as found in the following: fossil record DNA analysis artificial selection morphology embryology viral evolution geographic distribution of related species antibiotic and pesticide resistance in various organisms Nature of Science Standard 12 NS.12.B.2 Compare the processes of relative and radioactive dating to determine the age of fossils. NS.12.B.3
Understand that scientific theories may be modified or expanded based on empirical data, verification, & peer review. |
Molecular biology Ø History of DNA – Griffith, Avery, Pauling, Franklin, Watson/Crick Ø Summarize relationship between genes and DNA Ø Describe structure of DNA Ø Summarize events of DNA replication Ø RNA and protein synthesis o Compare DNA and RNA o Describe types of RNA o Stages in protein synthesis § Transcription § Translation o Contrast gene and chromosomal mutations Ø Gene regulation Ø Genetic engineering
Evolution
What is evolution? Ø Fact and theory Ø Review what a theory is
History of evolutionary thought Ø Lamarck Ø Darwin and Wallace Ø Voyage of the Beagle
Darwin’s theory Ø Four postulates Ø Influences on his theory: Hutton, Lyell, Malthus, Wallace Ø Support for natural selection
Other mechanisms of evolutionary change Ø Genetic drift
Speciation and Extinction
Evidence for evolution Ø Fossil record Ø Geographic distribution Ø Comparative morphology Ø Comparative embryology Ø Artificial selection Ø Observational examples (resistant bacteria)
Genetic equilibrium Ø Hardy-Weinberg conditions
| How does DNA function as the basic set of instructions for all living things?
Guiding Questions 1. How can the structure and function of DNA and RNA be characterized? 2. How are the structures of DNA and RNA similar and different? How do DNA and RNA molecules replicate themselves? What was the nature of the quest for discovering the source of heredity in living things? 3. What types of methodology were used to conclude that DNA is the genetic material? 4. How can the structure of DNA be described? Who are notable contributors to our knowledge of DNA? What are the roles of DNA and RNA in the construction of proteins? 5. What is involved in the processes of transcription and translation? 6. What are some of the new DNA techniques molecular biologists have created to allow them to identify, study, and modify genetic information? 7. What is the Human Genome Project? 8. What are some issues that have arisen as a result of new DNA technologies? 9. How does DNA function as the basic set of instructions for all living things?
Evolution How do species change over time? Guiding Questions 1. What were some early models for how life formed on Earth? 2. What types of evidence support the theory of evolution? 3. How do environmental pressures cause variations in populations? 4. How does natural selection explain the idea of change over time? |
Molecular Biology Labs:
DNA models with protein Synthesis Lab
Who ate the Cheese – Cheese Electrophoresis Lab –Cheese Electrophoresis Template –Base Pairs of Cheese Crime Scene
Evolution Labs:
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HOLT INTERACTIVE "Gene Expression"
Literacy Materials for Molecular Biology:
“Molecular Structure of nucleic Acids”
Literacy Materials for Evolution:
"Global warming is spurring evolution, study says" "Still evolving, human genes tell new story" "New study supports idea that primates, dinosaurs coexisted" "Twenty species we may lose in the next twenty years" "Hobbit-like human ancestor found in Asia" "Fear of snakes, spiders rooted in evolution" "Fins to limbs: New fossil gives evolution insight"
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UNIT TEST over MOLECULAR BASIS of HEREDITY | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
FEBRUARY (Taxonomy) | ||||
Heredity and Evolution Standard 6
HE.6.B.7 Interpret a Cladogram
Classification and the Diversity of life Standard 7: Students shall demonstrate an understanding that organisms are diverse. CDL.7.B.1 Differentiate among the different domains (Bacteria, Archaea, & Eukarya). CDL.7.B.2 Differentiate the characteristics of the six kingdoms: Eubacteria Archaea Protista Fungi Plantae Animalia CDL.7.B.3 Identify the seven major taxonomic categories: kingdom phylum class order family genus species CDL.7.B.4 Classify and name organisms based on their similarities and differences applying taxonomic nomenclature using dichotomous keys.
Bacteria, Protists and Fungi CDL.7.B.6 Compare and contrast the structures and characteristics of viruses (lytic and lysogenic cycles) with non-living and living things. CDL.7.B.7 Evaluate the medical and economic importance of viruses. CDL.7.B.8 Compare and contrast life cycles of familiar organisms sexual reproduction asexual reproduction metamorphosis alternation of generations
CDL.7.B.9 Classify bacteria according to their characteristics and adaptations. CDL.7.B.10 Evaluate the medical and economic importance of bacteria. CDL.7.B.11
Describe the characteristics used to classify protists: plant-like animal-like fungal-like CDL.7.B.12 Evaluate the medical and economic importance of protists . CDL.7.B.13 Compare and contrast fungi with other eukaryotic organisms. CDL.7.B.14 Evaluate the medical and economic importance of fungi. | Classification Ø What is taxonomy? Ø Explain how living things are organized Ø Describe binomial nomenclature Ø Explain Linnaeus’s hierarchical system Ø Modern evolutionary classification o Cladistics and acquired characteristics o Explain evolutionary relationships Ø Kingdoms and Domains o Name the six kingdoms and explain characteristics of each o Describe domain system of classification
Microbiology Ø Viruses and Bacteria Ø Protists
Multicellular organisms – structure and function Ø Fungi
| How do scientists organize all the known living things on Earth?
Guiding Questions 1. What do taxonomists use to determine similarity between organisms? 2. How does taxonomy lend insight into the process of evolution 3. What are the major divisions in the modern classification system?
Why are bacteria, protists and fungi so abundant, diverse and successful?
Guiding Questions 1. How do microscopic organisms affect our lives? 2. How do viruses compare to organisms? What are the components of a typical virus? 3. How do viruses replicate? 4. How are viruses specific to particular host cells? 5. How does the virus that causes AIDS reproduce? 6. How can the spread of AIDS be prevented 7. What are the distinguishing characteristics of bacteria, protists, and fungi in terms of anatomic features, food getting and reproductive methods; metabolic activities, and environmental responses? |
Project Based Assessment:
Wanted Poster Students construct a wanted poster on any disease-causing bacteria or virus. At minimum it must include a picture, a description of the microorganism and the symptoms it causes.
Classification Labs:
Virology Lab:
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Literacy Materials for classification:
"Stinging fire ants have good points"
"Linnaean naming system faces challenges"
"Team races to catalog every species on earth"
Literacy Items for Microorganisms:
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UNIT TEST over TAXONOMY | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
MARCH (Plants) | ||||
Plants CDL.7.B.15 Differentiate between vascular and nonvascular plants. CDL.7.B.16 Differentiate among cycads, gymnosperms, and angiosperms. CDL.7.B.17 Describe the structure and function of the major parts of a plant: roots stems leaves flowers CDL.7.B.18 Relate the structure of plant tissues (epidermal, ground, and vascular) to their functions. CDL.7.B.19 Evaluate the medical and economic importance of plants. CDL.7.B.5 Investigate Arkansas’ biodiversity using appropriate tools and technology. | Ø Plants o Vascular vs. non-vascular plants o Tissue types
| What is the importance of plants in our lives?
Guiding Questions 1. What are distinguishing differences between nonvascular and vascular plants? 2. What specific roles do dermal, vascular, and ground tissues play in plants? |
Botany Labs:
Seed Identification and Dissection
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Literacy Materials for Botany:
"Natural plant defenses- fight or flight?"
"Soil fertility in agricultural systems"
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UNIT TEST over PLANTS | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
APRIL (Animal Characteristics) | ||||
CDL.7.B.2 Differentiate the characteristics of the kingdom Animalia CDL.7.B.20 Identify the symmetry of organisms: radial bilateral asymmetrical |
Ø Animals o Animal characteristics: symmetry, anatomy, physiology | What are the similarities and differences among animals?
Guiding Questions 1. What are the basic body plans of all animals? 2. Why are body plans useful in classifying animals? |
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Literacy Articles on Animal Characteristics:
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UNIT TEST over ANIMALS | ||||
Month/SLEs | Content/Skills | Essential Questions | Assessments & Lab Activities | Resources & Literacy |
MAY (Vertebrates & Invertebrates) | ||||
May Differentiate the characteristics of the kingdom Animalia . Compare and contrast the major invertebrate classes according to their nervous, respiratory, excretory, circulatory, and digestive systems Differentiate the characteristics of the kingdom Animalia.
Compare and contrast the major vertebrate classes according to their nervous, respiratory, excretory, circulatory, digestive, reproductive and integumentary systems. Compare and contrast life cycles of familiar organisms sexual reproduction asexual reproduction metamorphosis | Invertebrates Dissection and comparative anatomy
Vertebrates Dissection and comparative anatomy
| Why are invertebrates so diverse, successful and abundant?
Guiding Questions 1. How are the body plans of invertebrates different from those of vertebrates? 2. What are the eight major invertebrate phyla and the major characteristics of each in terms of anatomical features; food getting and reproductive methods; metabolic activities; and environmental responses? How does the spinal cord allow diversity in the form and function of vertebrates? Guiding Questions 1. What distinguishes chordates from other animals? 2. What are the major structural and functional adaptations found in fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals? What are the major vertebrate systems that can be studied and compared? 3. How did the evolution of the spinal cord allow for diversity in the form and function of vertebrates? |
| (FroGuts Software-link to brochure)
Literacy Materials on Animals:
"Suicide grasshoppers brainwashed by parasite worms"
"Toads that go pop in the night"
"Weapons of Mouse destruction?"
"Earth’s uncanned crusaders: Will sardines save our skin?"
"Owls use dung to "fish" for beetles" |
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