Norwell District Secondary School
SBI3U
Grade 11 University Biology
Prerequisite
Science, Grade 10, Academic
Curriculum Expectations
This course furthers studentsí understanding of the processes that
occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct
investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the
structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of
plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under
study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.
Course Strands and Major Themes
Diversity of Living
Things
- All living things can be classified according to their anatomical and
physiological characteristics.
- Human activities affect the diversity of living things in ecosystems.
Evolution
- Evolution is the process of biological change over time based on the
relationships between species and their environments.
- The theory of evolution is a scientific explanation based on a large
accumulation of evidence.
- Technology that enables humans to manipulate the development of
species has economic and environmental implications.
Genetic Processes
- Genetic and genomic research can have social and environmental
implications.
- Variability and diversity of living organisms result from the
distribution of genetic materials during the process of meiosis.
Animals: Structure
and Function
- Groups of organs with specific structures and functions work together
as systems, which interact with other systems in the body.
- The development and uses of technology to maintain human health are
based, in part, on the changing needs of society.
Plants: Anatomy,
Growth, and Function
- Plants have specialized structures with distinct functions that
enable them to respond and adapt to their environment.
- Plant variety is critical to the survival and sustainability of
ecosystems.
Evaluation
Final Mark = 70% term
work + 30% Summative
Weighting of
Achievement Categories
Knowledge and
Understanding
30%
- knowledge of content
(e.g., facts, terminology, definitions, safe use of equipment and materials)
- understanding of
content (e.g., concepts, ideas, theories, principles, procedures, processes)
Thinking, Inquiry,
Problem Solving
30%
- use of initiating and
planning skills and strategies (e.g., formulating questions, identifying the
problem, developing hypotheses, selecting strategies and resources, developing
plans)
- use of processing
skills and strategies (e.g., performing and recording, gathering evidence and
data, observing, manipulating materials and using equipment safely, solving
equations, proving)
- use of
critical/creative thinking processes, skills, and strategies (e.g., analysing,
interpreting, problem solving, evaluating, forming and justifying conclusions
on the basis of evidence)
Communication
20%
- expression and
organization of ideas and information (e.g., clear expression, logical
organization) in oral, visual, and/or written forms (e.g., diagrams, models)
- communication for
different audiences (e.g., peers, adults) and purposes (e.g., to inform, to
persuade) in oral, visual, and/or written forms
- use of conventions,
vocabulary, and terminology of the discipline in oral, visual, and written
forms (e.g., symbols, formulae, scientific notation, SI units)
Applications
20%
- application of
knowledge and skills (e.g., concepts and processes, safe use of equipment,
scientific investigation skills) in familiar contexts
- transfer of knowledge
and skills (e.g., concepts and processes, safe use of equipment, scientific
investigation skills) to unfamiliar contexts
- making connections
between science, technology, society, and the environment (e.g., assessing the
impact of science on technology, people and other living things, and the
environment)
- proposing courses of
practical action to deal with problems relating to science, technology,
society, and the environment
Lab Safety
Students are expected
to observe all safety procedures in the laboratory. Students that jeopardise the safety of themselves or others
may be restricted in their laboratory participation.