SBI4U, Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation, (1 credit)

What You Will Learn:
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes associated with biological systems. Students will study and conduct investigations in the area of metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, evolution, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on achievement of the detailed knowledge and refined skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.

Course Outline:

Units:

Unit 1 Metabolic Processes
In this unit, students explore the biochemical pathways organisms use to create metabolically useful energy. Students examine energy transformations in living cells through examination of the structure and function of biologically essential macromolecules.

Unit 2 Homeostasis
Through analysis of a variety of changing conditions, students examine the complexity of homeostatic mechanisms, including those used in the maintenance of water, ionic, thermal and acid-base equilibria, and construct models to illustrate them. This unit provides students with applications of biochemistry studied in the first unit, and links to the animal anatomy and physiology unit in SBI3U. Students consider the impact of environmental factors on the maintenance of homeostasis, and examine related societal issues.

Unit 3 Molecular Genetics
In this unit, students examine the structure and function of DNA and RNA, and their role in protein synthesis and control of gene expression. Students investigate the advances in knowledge about genetics during the 20th and 21st centuries and, using the most current information available, explore a variety of genetic technologies. There are many connections between the content of this unit and current events – cloning, xenotransplantation, stem cell research, genetically modified foods, genetic (DNA) profiling, etc.

Unit 4 Evolution
In this unit, the theory of evolution and the evidence that supports it are explored. Students are expected to trace modern mechanisms for speciation and the influence of scientific discovery on developments in the field of evolution. The contrast between the natural forces driving evolution and modern technological forces is a key to connecting this unit to other units in the course, e.g., genetics, populations.

Unit 5 Population Dynamics
Designed as an overview of population dynamics, this unit focuses on the effects of relationships within ecosystems and other factors that regulate and limit population growth. The carrying capacity of Earth will also be studied in terms of human population trends.

Resources/ materials used:

• Class handouts, textbook.

This course introduces students to vocabulary and concepts in Biology and prepares them for further work in the areas of Biology or (Health) Sciences.

Related Courses:

• SCH3U Grade 11 Chemistry (University Preparation)

Further information