VCE Units 1 & 2 - Biology
VCE Units 1 & 2 - Biology
Overview
The study of Biology explores the diversity of life as it has evolved and changed over time and considers how living organisms function and interact. It explores the processes of life, from the molecular world of the cell to that of the whole organism and examines how life forms maintain and ensure their continuity.
Unit 1: How do organisms regulate their functions?
Students examine the cell as the structural and functional unit of life. Students focus on cell growth, replacement and death and the role of stem cells in differentiation, specialisation, and renewal of cells.
Areas of Study
- How do cell’s function? The structure and functions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the regulation of the cell cycle and the processes for cell division.
- How do plant and animal systems function? – How systems function through cell specialisation in vascular plants and in digestive, endocrine, and excretory systems in animals, focusing on regulation of water balance in plants, and temperature, blood glucose, water balance and thyroid regulation in animals through homeostatic mechanisms.
- How do scientific investigations develop understanding of how organisms regulate their functions? Adapt or design and then conduct a scientific investigation
Unit 2: How does inheritance impact on diversity?
Students explore reproduction and the transmission of biological information from generation to generation and the impact this has on species diversity.
Areas of Study
- How is inheritance explained? – Describe how a characteristic or trait is inherited through generations and how diversity derives from the production of gametes in sexual reproduction
- How do inherited adaptations impact on diversity? – Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of asexual and sexual reproduction and investigate the use and application of reproductive cloning technologies.
- How do humans use science to explore and communicate contemporary bioethical issues? – Explore a contemporary bioethical issue relating to the application of genetic knowledge, reproductive science, inheritance or adaptations and interdependencies beneficial for survival.
Forms of Assessment
- Practical Logbook Annotation
- Case Study Analysis
- Data analysis of primary and/collated secondary data
- Scientific Investigation Poster
- Response to a bioethical issue
- Semester Exams
Prerequisites and Corequisites
Students should have studied 2 Science Units at Year 10. Year 10 Biology is an advantage.