Microscopes and Magnification
Types of microscopes, slide preparation and magnification calculations.
Cell Structure and Transport
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, specialised cells, diffusion, osmosis and active transport.
Growth and Cell Differentiation
Mitosis, the cell cycle, stem cells and growth in plants and animals.
Principles of Organisation
Organisation of cells into tissues, organs and systems, and their co-ordinated functions.
Enzymes and the Digestive System
Enzyme action, factors affecting enzyme activity, digestive enzymes, digestion, calorimetry and food tests.
Circulatory System
Structure and function of the heart, blood vessels, blood components and the double circulatory system.
Respiratory System
Structure of the lungs, gas exchange, diffusion, Fick’s Law and the effects of exercise and smoking.
Plant Biology
Photosynthesis, limiting factors, transpiration, xylem and phloem and plant hormones.
Health and Disease
Communicable and non-communicable diseases, pathogens, immune response, vaccination, antibiotics, drug development and monoclonal antibodies.
Endocrine System and Homeostasis
Hormones, the thyroid gland, the menstrual cycle, blood glucose regulation, thermoregulation and osmoregulation.
Biological Reactions /Bioenergetics
Aerobic and anaerobic respiration, energy transfer and metabolic reactions.
The Nervous System
Neurones, synapses, reflexes, brain regions/scans, structures of the eye and myopia/hyperopia correction.
Inheritance and Genetics
DNA, alleles, sexual/asexual reproduction, meiosis, Punnett squares, genetic disorders, the Human Genome Project and variation.
Evolution, Breeding and Genetic Modification
Natural selection, selective breeding, cloning/tissue culture and genetic engineering.
Ecology and Sustainability
Ecosystems, food chains/webs, feeding relationships, human impacts on biodiversity and conservation.
Biotechnology and Food Production
Microorganisms in industry, genetic modification, modern farming and food security.