Science Strands- Common to all high school science courses

Strands The strands are: Nature of Science, Science as Inquiry, Science and Technology, Science in Personal and Social Perspectives. They provide the context for teaching of the content Goals and

Objectives. Nature of Science

This strand includes the following sections: Science as a Human Endeavor, Historical Perspectives, and the Nature of Scientific Knowledge. These sections are designed to help students understand the human dimensions of science, the nature of scientific thought, and the role of science in society. Biology is rich in examples of science as a human endeavor, historical perspectives on the development of scientific knowledge, and the nature and role of scientific knowledge.

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Strands Ideas for integrating these strands

Science as a Human Endeavor

Intellectual honesty and an ethical tradition are hallmarks of the practice of science. The practice is rooted in accurate data reporting, peer review, and making findings public. This aspect of the nature of science can be taught by designing instruction that encourages students to work in groups, design investigations, formulate hypotheses, collect data, reach conclusions, and present their findings to their classmates.

The content studied in biology provides an opportunity to present science as the basis for medicine, ecology, forensics, biotechnology, and environmental studies. The diverse biology content allows for looking at science as a vocation. Scientist, artist, and technician are just a few of the many careers in which a biology background is necessary.

Perhaps the most important aspect of this strand is that science is an integral part of society and is therefore relevant to students' lives.

Include examples of both individual and team contributions to the field of biology.

Design inquiry activities in which all students to collect data and report their finding to their peers for review.

Debate whether scientific peer review process is adequate to trust scientists’ information in making policy decisions.

Assign students to investigate the biology knowledge needed for diverse occupations.

Invite speakers from local industries and services to discuss the use of biology principles in their work. (Waste management, water and air quality, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, forensics, etc)

Demonstrate using newspaper and magazine articles the importance of understanding biology.

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Strands Ideas for integrating these strands

Historical Perspectives

Most scientific knowledge and technological advances develop incrementally from the labors of scientists and inventors. Although science history includes accounts of serendipitous scientific discoveries, most development of scientific concepts and technological innovation occurs in response to a specific problem or conflict. Both great advances and gradual knowledge building in science and technology have profound effects on society. Students should appreciate the scientific thought and effort of the individuals who contributed to these advances.

Be sure to include examples of both male and female scientists from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Study the contributions of key scientists and the human drama surrounding their accomplishments (This is list is not comprehensive.)

The obscurity of Mendel’s work until after his death

The interpersonal struggles involved in the discovery of DNA

Modern breakthroughs in gene manipulation for therapeutic purposes.

Nature of Scientific Knowledge

Much of what is understood about the nature of science must be explicitly addressed:

All scientific knowledge is tentative, although many ideas have stood the test of time and are reliable for our use.

Compare and contrast theories and laws.

Use the theory of biological evolution for further research and as a basis for prediction on other phenomena (the diversity of species, the genetic relationships between species and the fossil record) and use the gene theory as an explanation for relationships between one generation and the next.

Science as InquiryInquiry should be the central theme in biology. It is

Because of the importance of science as inquiry this aspect has been integrated

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The Strands: Nature of Science

The Strands: Nature of Science

Strands Ideas for integrating these strands

an integral part of the learning experience and may be used in traditional class problems and laboratory work. The essence of the inquiry process is to ask questions that stimulate students to think critically and to formulate their own questions. Observing, classifying, using numbers, plotting graphs, measuring, inferring, predicting, formulating models, interpreting data, hypothesizing, and experimenting all help students to build knowledge and communicate what they have learned. Inquiry is the application of creative thinking to new and unfamiliar situations.

Classical experiments confirming well-accepted scientific principles may be necessary to reinforce understanding and to teach safe and proper use of laboratory techniques and instruments, but they should not be the whole laboratory experience.

Instead, they should be a prelude to open-ended investigations in which the students have the chance to pose questions, design experiments, record and analyze data, and communicate their findings

Having students involved in research (beyond the typical “science fair project”) contributes immensely to their understanding of the process of science and to their problem-solving abilities.

A solid conceptual base of scientific principles, and knowledge of science safety, is necessary for inquiry. Adherence to all science safety criteria and guidelines for classroom, field, and laboratory experiences is imperative. Contact the Science

into Goal 1: The learner will develop abilities necessary to do and understand scientific inquiry.

This idea should be integrated into the entire course and not just taught as a separate “lab introduction” unit.

Traditional labs such as dissection and observation of plant and animal cells could lead to open-ended explorations such as the study of a particular animal’s anatomy in relationship to its environment and behavior, or the effect of changing environmental conditions on the growth of yeast (or other) cells.

There is the potential for many inquiries such as: “Does the earthworm respond to light?” “Why?” “Does temperature affect the metabolic activity of yeast?” “Why?”

Students should design solutions to biological problems that interest them.

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Strands Ideas for integrating these strands

Section at DPI for information and professional development opportunities regarding North Carolina specific Science Safety laws, codes, and standards. The Science Section is spearheading a statewide initiative entitled NC-The Total Science Safety System.

Science and TechnologyIt is impossible to learn science without developing some appreciation of technology. Therefore, this strand has a dual purpose: (a) developing students' knowledge and skills in technological design, and (b) enhancing their understanding of science and technology.

The methods of scientific inquiry and technological design share many common elements including objectivity, clear definition of the problem, identification of goals, careful collection of observations and data, data analysis, replication of results, and peer review. Technological design differs from inquiry in that it must operate within the limitations of materials, scientific laws, economics, and the demands of society. Together, science and technology present many solutions to problems of survival and enhance the quality of life. Technological design is important to building knowledge in biology. For example, electron microscopes, graphic calculators, personal computers, and magnetic resonance images have changed our lives, increased our knowledge of biology, and improved our understanding of the universe.

Provide opportunities for students to utilize technology to collect and analyze data in laboratory settings.

Allow students to brainstorm ways that technology can be used to enhance scientific study in the future.

Discuss the limitation of technology in scientific study

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Strands Ideas for integrating these strands

Science in Personal and Social Perspectives This strand helps students in making rational decisions in the use of scientific and technological knowledge. "Understanding basic concepts and principles of science and technology should precede active debate about the economics, policies, politics, and ethics of various science and technology-related challenges. However, understanding science alone will not resolve local, national, or global challenges. (NSES, p. 199). The NSES emphasizes that "students should understand the appropriateness and value of basic questions 'What can happen?' - 'What are the odds?' and 'How do scientists and engineers know what will happen?'" (NSES, p. 199). Students should understand the causes and extent of science-related challenges. They should become familiar with the advances that proper application of scientific principles and products have brought to environmental enhancement, better energy use, reduced vehicle emissions, and improved human health.

Design scientific resolutions for local or global challenges.

Encourage debate about these resolutions and their consequences.

Study issues such as nutrition, exercise, rest, and substance abuse from the perspective of an organism’s needs and responses.

Develop the ability to assess the carrying capacity of a given environment and its implied limits on population growth, as well as how technology allows environmental modifications to adjust its carrying capacity.

Make decisions based on evidence in the areas of environmental stewardship and economic realities.

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Biology Standard Course of Study/Content Description and Suggested Activities

Goal 1

Goal 1: Learner will develop abilities necessary to do and understand scientific inquiry. Goal 1 addresses scientific investigation. These objectives are an integral part of each of the other goals. Students must be given the opportunity to design and conduct their own investigations in a safe laboratory. The students should use questions and models to formulate the relationship identified in their investigations and then report and share those findings with others.

Objective Content Description Suggested Activities

1.01 Identify biological problems and questions that can be answered through scientific investigations.

Develop questions for investigation from a given topic or problem.

Activities for this goal will be embedded within the other goals.

1.02 Design and conduct scientific investigations to answer biological questions.

Create testable hypotheses.

Identify variables. Use a control or

comparison group when appropriate.

Select and use appropriate measurement tools.

Collect and record data. Organize data into charts

and graphs. Analyze and interpret data. Communicate findings.

Distinguish and appropriately graph dependent and independent variables.

Discuss the best method of graphing/presenting particular data.

Report and share investigation results with others.

Student design of an experiment

Qualitative and quantitative lab investigations and experiences

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1.03 Formulate and revise scientific explanations and models of biological phenomena using logic and evidence to:

Explain observations. Make inferences and

predictions. Explain the relationship

between evidence and explanation.

Use questions and models to determine the relationships between variables in investigations.

Content rich inference vs. observation activity (eg: "Animal Responses to Environmental Stimuli")

1.04 Apply safety procedures in the laboratory and in field studies:

Recognize and avoid potential hazards.

Safely manipulate materials and equipment needed for scientific investigations.

Predict safety concerns for particular experiments Relate biological concepts to safety applications

such as:o Disease transmissiono Nutritiono Animal care

Safety activity

1.05 Analyze reports of scientific investigations from an informed scientifically literate viewpoint including considerations of:

Appropriate sample. Adequacy of

experimental controls.

Replication of findings.

Alternative interpretations of the data.

Read a variety of reports of scientific research.

Case Studies from recent literature in both academic (Science, Scientific American) and popular (Newsweek, USA Today) publications.

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Goal 2Goal 2: Learner will develop an understanding of the physical, chemical and cellular basis of life.

Objective Content Description Suggested Activities

2.01 Compare and contrast the structure and functions of the following organic molecules:

Carbohydrates. Proteins. Lipids. Nucleic Acids.

Examine the role and importance of organic molecules to organisms.

Examples to investigate include starch, cellulose, insulin, glycogen, glucose, enzymes, hemoglobin, fats, DNA and RNA. (Distinguish among mono, and polysaccharides - concept not terminology)

Interpret results of tests for starch (iodine), lipids (brown paper), monosaccharides (Benedict’s Solution), and protein (Biuret’s).

Emphasis should be on functions and subunits of each organic molecule. For example, enzymes are proteins composed of long chains of amino acids that are folded into particular shapes and that shape determines the specific reaction that the enzyme will catalyze. (The terms condensation reaction, dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis have been deliberately excluded.)

Testing for bio-molecules: starch, lipids, sugars, and proteins

2.02 Investigate and describe the structure and function of cells including:

Cell organelles.

Structure and function of: nucleus, plasma membrane, cell wall, mitochondria, vacuoles, chloroplasts, and ribosomes. Students should be able to identify these cell organelles.

Proficient use and understanding of light microscopic techniques. Students should determine total power magnification as well as steps in proper microscope usage.

Hierarchy of cell organization: Cells tissuesorgans organ systems.

Structure of cells as it relates to their specific functions.

Students should view a variety of cells with particular emphasis on the differences between plant and animal cells.

Chemical signals may be released by one cell to influence the activity of another cell. For example, a nerve cell can send a message to a muscle cell or to another a nerve cell.

Creation of cell models

Microscope experience

Cell surface area to volume activity

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Cell specialization.

Communication among cells within an organism.

role of receptor proteins hormones

2.03 Investigate and analyze the cell as a living system including:

Maintenance of homeostasis.

Movement of materials into and out of cells.

Energy use and release in biochemical reactions.

Examples for exploration should include regulation of temperature, pH, blood glucose levels and water balance.

Discussion should include active vs. passive transport, diffusion, osmosis, and the porous nature of the semi-permeable plasma membrane. (Pinocytosis, phagocytosis, endocytosis, and exocytosis have been deliberately excluded)

Given different types of cells, students should be able to predict any changes in osmotic pressure that may occur as the cell is placed in solutions of differing concentrations. (Emphasis is on the processes, not terminology such as hypertonic, isotonic, hypotonic, turgor pressure)

Examine ATP as the source of energy for cell activities.

Students will describe how cells store and use energy with ATP and ADP molecules.

An osmosis lab / diffusion lab

Inquiry Support Activities:

Osmosis and the Egg

How do biological materials respond to acids and bases? (Buffer lab)

Activities that demonstrate when food is burned energy is given off (such as burning a peanut or cheese doodle)

2.04 Investigate and describe the structure and function of

Instruction should include investigation of: Inquiry Support Activity:

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enzymes and explain their importance in biological systems.

Enzymes as proteins that speed up chemical reactions (catalyst).

Enzymes as re-usable and specific. Enzymes as affected by such factors as

pH, and temperature.Students should understand that enzymes are necessary for all biochemical reactions and have

a general understanding of how enzymes work.

Properties of Enzymes

2.05 Investigate and analyze the bioenergetic reactions:

Aerobic respiration Anaerobic respiration

Photosynthesis

The emphasis should be placed on investigation of:

Overall equations including reactants and products and not on memorizing intermediate steps of these processes.

Factors which affect rate of photosynthesis and or cellular respiration.

Comparison and contrast of these processes with regard to efficiency of ATP formation, the types of organisms using these processes, and the organelles involved.

o Anaerobic respiration should include lactic acid and alcoholic fermentation.

Instruction should include the comparison of anaerobic and aerobic organisms.

(Glycolysis, Kreb’s Cycle, and Electron Transport Chain have been deliberately excluded)

(Students are not required to distinguish between light dependent and light independent parts of photosynthesis)

Inquiry Support Activity: Yeast Fermentation

Inquiry activities which allow students to investigate factors affecting rate of photosynthesis and/or cellular respiration

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Goal 3

Goal 3: Learner will develop an understanding of the continuity of life and the changes of organisms over time.

Objective Content Description Suggested Activities

3.01 Analyze the molecular basis of heredity including:

DNA Replication

Protein Synthesis(transcription and translation)

Instruction should include:

Structure of DNA as compared to RNA Complementary base pairing Understanding that the sequence of nucleotides

in DNA codes for proteins – the central key to cell function and life.

How the process allows daughter cells to have an exact copy of parental DNA.

Understanding of the semi-conservative nature of the replication process. (nature of the process, not the term semi-conservative)

Mutations as a change in the DNA code. The position of replication within the cell cycle. The importance of relatively weak hydrogen

bonds.

The recognition of protein synthesis as a process of:

Transcription that produces an RNA copy of DNA, which is further modified into the three types of RNA

mRNA traveling to the ribosome (rRNA) Translation - tRNA supplies appropriate amino

acids Amino acids linked by peptide bonds to form

polypeptides which are folded into proteins. Use of a codon chart to determine the amino

acid sequence produced by a particular sequence of bases.

All (with a few exceptions) of an organism’s cells have the same DNA but differ based on the expression of genes. differentiation of cells in multicellular

organisms cells responding to their environment by

producing different types and amounts of

Investigation of replication, transcription and translation using models.

Inquiry Support Activity:

What are the effects of various mutations on protein synthesis?

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Gene Regulation

protein. advantages (injury repair) and

disadvantages (cancer) of the overproduction, underproduction or production of proteins at the incorrect times.

3.02 Compare and contrast the characteristics of asexual and sexual reproduction.

Instruction should include:

Recognizing mitosis as a part of asexual reproduction and meiosis as a part of sexual reproduction.

Similarities and differences between mitosis and meiosis including replication and separation of DNA and cellular material, changes in chromosome number, number of cell divisions, and number of cells produced in complete cycle.

Putting mitosis diagrams in order and describing what is occurring throughout the process.

Students are not expected to memorize the names of the steps or the order of the step names.

The sources of variation including:o Crossing over.o Random assortment of

chromosomes. o Gene mutationo Nondisjunction o Fertilization

Inquiry Support Activity:

Cell Cycle

Investigation involving mitosis/ meiosis simulations

3.03 Interpret and predict Instruction should include:

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patterns of inheritance.

Dominant, recessive and intermediate traits.

Identifying and determining genotypes and phenotypes.

Recognition that phenotype is the result of both genotype and the environment.

A discussion of Mendel’s experiments and laws.

Interpreting karyotypes (gender, chromosomal abnormalities)

Understanding that dominant traits mask recessive alleles.

There are a variety of intermediate patterns of inheritance, including codominance and incomplete dominance. While teachers should not necessarily expect students at this level to distinguish between these forms of intermediate inheritance on a biochemical level they should be able to solve problems involving apparently intermediate phenotypes. The following discussion is included to help teachers with understanding these frequently confused terms.

o Incomplete dominance (also called partial dominance) results in the blending of traits. (Usually results from an inactive or less active gene so the heterozygous phenotype appears intermediate. E.g. Pink flowers)

o Co-dominant alleles result in the expression of both traits. (two different proteins are produced and both are detected e.g. roan cows and AB blood type.)

Autosomal inheritance patterns and characteristics of sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and Huntington’s disease

Solving and interpreting co-dominant crosses involving multiple alleles.

A, B, AB and O blood types (alleles: IA, IB, and i).

Determining if parentage is possible based on blood types.

Recognizing that some traits are controlled by more than one pair of genes.

This pattern of inheritance is identified by the presence of a wide range of phenotypes (consider examples of skin and hair color).

Inquiry Support Activity:

Genetics of Parenthood

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Multiple alleles.

Polygenic traits.

Sex linked traits.

An understanding of human sex chromosomes.

Solving crosses involving sex linked traits (examples: color-blindness and hemophilia.)

Understand why males are more likely to express a sex-linked trait.

The importance of the genes being on separate chromosomes as it relates to meiosis.

How the process of meiosis leads to independent assortment and ultimately to greater genetic diversity.

Given certain phenotypes suggest an appropriate test cross to determine the genotype of an organism.

Identify the genotypes of individuals from a given pedigree. (students should be able to interpret pedigrees which show phenotype not genotype)

Solving and interpreting problems featuring monohybrid crosses. (Parental, F1, F2 generations)

Determining parental genotypes based on offspring ratios.

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Independent assortment.

Test cross.

Pedigrees.

Punnett squares.

3.04 Assess the impacts of genomics on individuals and society.

Human genome project.

Applications of biotechnology.

Instruction should include:

The reasons for establishing the human genome project.

Recognition that the project is useful in determining whether individuals may carry genes for genetic conditions and in developing gene therapy.

Gel electrophoresis as a technique to separate molecules based on size.

(Students are not expected to know the steps of gel electrophoresis in order or great detail. They should be able to interpret the results and have a general understanding of what takes place during the process.)

Electrophoresis lab or simulation.

Inquiry Support Activity:

Genetic Detective

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Uses of DNA fingerprinting

Applications of transgenic organisms (plants, animals, & bacteria) in agriculture and industry including pharmaceutical applications such as the production of human insulin.

Ethical issues and implications of genomics and biotechnology. (stem cell research and genetically modified organisms)

3.05 Examine the development of the theory of evolution by natural selection including:

Development of the theory.

The origin and history of life.

Fossil and biochemical evidence.

Mechanisms of evolution.

Instruction should include:

Historical development of the theory of evolution by natural selection.

Biogenesis in contrast to abiogenesis with emphasis on the experiments used to support both ideas.

Early atmosphere hypotheses and experiments.

How the early conditions affected the type of organism that developed (anaerobic and prokaryotic).

Evolution of eukaryotic and aerobic organisms.

Fossils– relative and absolute dating methods

A discussion of what can be inferred from patterns in the fossil record.

Biochemical similarities. Shared anatomical structures.

(Patterns in embryology and homologous and analogous vocabulary are intentionally excluded)

How variations provide material for natural selection.

The role of geographic isolation in speciation.

The importance of the environment in selecting adaptations.

Discuss the evolutionary selection of resistance to antibiotics and pesticides in various species.

Inquiry Support Activity:

Fishy Frequencies

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Applications (pesticide & antibiotic resistance).

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Goal 4

Goal 4: Learner will develop an understanding of the unity and diversity of life.

Objective Content Description Suggested Activities

4.01 Analyze the classification of organisms according to their evolutionary relationships.

The historical development and changing nature of classification systems.

Similarities and differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms.

Students should learn about the changing nature of classification based new knowledge generated by research on evolutionary relationships.

History of classification system

Originally two kingdoms (plants and animals). More kingdoms added as knowledge of the diversity of organisms increased.

Development of the seven level classification system (KPCOFGS) and binomial nomenclature

(The intention is that students understand that classification systems are changed as new knowledge is gathered. Currently, the thinking is 3 Domains with 6-7 kingdoms)

Basis of classification system

Evolutionary phylogeny, DNA and biochemical analysis, embryology, morphology

Interpret phylogenetic trees.

Only basic differences and similarities should be detailed.

Membrane bound organelles – none in prokaryotes.

Ribosomes in both. Contrasts in chromosome structure. Contrasts in size.

Compare:

Use dichotomous keys to identify organisms.

Activities might include student-created keys based on observable characteristics (e.g. symmetry)

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Similarities and differences among the eukaryotic kingdoms: Protists, Fungi, Plants, and Animals.

Classify organisms using keys.

Cellular structures. Unicellular vs. Multicellular. Methods of making/getting food and

breaking down food to get energy. Reproduction.

Use dichotomous keys to identify organisms.

4.02 Analyze the processes by which organisms representative of the following groups accomplish essential life functions including:

Unicellular protists, annelid worms, insects, amphibians, mammals, non-vascular plants, gymnosperms and angiosperms.

Transport, excretion, respiration, regulation, nutrition, synthesis, reproduction, and growth and development.

Teachers should help students compare and contrast how the organisms listed accomplish the essential life functions specified below. The focus is on physiology rather than on the names of parts.

Transport – how organisms get what they need to cells; how they move waste from cells to organs of excretion.

Excretion – how organisms get rid of their waste and balance their fluids (pH, salt concentration, water).

Regulation – how organisms control body processes – hormones, nervous system.

Respiration – how organisms get oxygen from the environment and release carbon dioxide back to the environment and how plants exchange gases.

Nutrition – how organisms break down and absorb foods.

Synthesis – how organisms build necessary molecules.

Reproduction – sexual versus asexual, eggs, seeds, spores, placental, types of fertilization.

Growth and development – metamorphosis, development in egg or in uterus, growth from seed or spore.

Observe representative organisms from the specified groups.

Inquiry Support Activity:Organism Newspaper Project

4.03 Assess, describe and explain adaptations affecting survival and reproductive success.

Structural adaptations in plants and animals (form to function).

Focus should be on structural adaptations from organisms that are listed in 4.02, particularly:

Feeding adaptations. Adaptations to ensure successful

reproduction.

Investigation that includes the observation of structural adaptations

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Disease-causing viruses and microorganisms.

Co-evolution.

Adaptations to life on land.

Instruction should include:

Structure of viruses. Mutation of viruses and other

microorganisms. Variety of disease causing (pathogenic)

agents (viruses, bacteria) including: HIV Influenza Smallpox Streptococcus (strep throat)

Emphasis should be on the relationship between angiosperms and their pollinators.

4.04 Analyze and explain the interactive role of internal and external factors in health and disease:

Genetics.

Immune response.

Focus should be on the interactive role of genetics and the environment in determining a specific response including:

Sickle cell anemia and malaria PKU and diet Lung/mouth cancer and tobacco use Skin cancer, vitamin D, folic acid and sun

exposure Diabetes (diet/exercise and genetic

interaction). PKU and diet

Instruction should include basic understanding of:

Function and relationship of T-cells, B-cells, antibodies/antigens. (Overview only of different types and roles of T and B cells: role of memory cells, B cells make antibodies, some T cells help B cells make antibodies,

Use of case studies to analyze the role of genetics and environment in human health.

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Nutrition.

Parasites.

Toxins.

other T cells kill infected cells.) Passive and active immunity. Vaccines.

Teachers should emphasize aspects of nutrition that contribute to:

Optimal health. Poor nutrition (obesity, malnutrition and

specific deficiencies.)

Teachers should focus on the general life cycle (not specific details), vector, symptoms, and treatments for: Malarial parasite (Plasmodium)

Understand effects of environmental toxins

Lead Mercury

4.05 Analyze the broad patterns of animal behavior as adaptations to the environment.

Innate behavior.

Learned behavior.

Taxes and instincts, including:

suckling (instinct) insects moving away from or toward light

(taxis) migration, estivation, hibernation

Focus should be on various types of learned behavior including:

Habituation Imprinting Classical conditioning (e.g. Pavlov’s dog –

stimulus association) Trial and error (focus on concept of trial and

error learning not term operant conditioning).

Focus should be on communication, territorial defense, and courtship, including:

Communication within social structure using

Inquiry Support Activity:

Animal Responses to Environmental Stimuli

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Social behavior.

pheromones (ex: bees and ants). Courtship dances. Territorial defense (ex: Fighting Fish).

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Goal 5

Goal 5: Learner will develop an understanding of the ecological relationships among organisms.

Objective Content Description Suggested Activities/Resources

5.01 Investigate and analyze the interrelationships among organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems

Techniques of field ecology

Abiotic and biotic factors

Carrying capacity

Students should be able to identify and describe symbiotic relationships

Mutualism Commensalism Parasitism

Students should be able to identify and predict patterns in Predator /prey relationships.

Use field ecology techniques such as sampling and quadrant studies to determine species diversity and changes over time.

Explain how abiotic and biotic factors are related to one another and their importance in ecosystems.

Analyze how limiting factors influence carrying capacity (e.g. food availability, competition, harsh winter).

Interpret population growth graphs.

Inquiry Support Activity:

Campus Field Study

5.02 Analyze the flow of energy and the cycling of matter in the ecosystem.

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Relationship of the carbon cycle to photosynthesis and respiration

Trophic levels- direction and efficiency of energy transfer

Investigate the carbon cycle as it relates to photosynthesis and respiration.

Analyze food chains, food webs, and energy pyramids for direction and efficiency of energy transfer.

5.03 Assess human population and its impact on local ecosystems and global environments:

Historic and potential changes in population

Factors associated with those changes.

Climate Change.

Instruction should include:

Analyze human population growth graphs (historical and potential changes) .(See 5.01)

Factors influencing birth rates and death rates. Effects of population size, density and resource

use on the environment. Discussion of human impact on local ecosystems:

Acid rain Habitat destruction Introduced non-native species.

How changes in human population affects populations of other organisms.

Discussion of factors that influence climate: greenhouse effect (relate to carbon cycle and

human impact on atmospheric CO2)natural environmental processes (e.g. volcanoes)

Investigation of the direct and indirect impact of humans on natural resources (e.g. deforestation, pesticide use and bioaccumulation research )

Inquiry Support Activity:

Environmental Factors that Affect the Hatching of Brine Shrimp

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Resource use

Sustainable practices/ stewardship.

Examples of sustainable practices and stewardship.

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