Course Title/ Grade/ Course Type: Biology, Grade 12, University Preparation
Ministry Course Code: SBI4U
Curriculum Document: Ministry of Education; The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 to 12, Science (Revised 2008); Ministry of Education; Growing Success Documents, 2010
Prerequisite: SBI3U, Biology, Grade 11, University Preparation
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.
Outline of Course Content
Unit 0: Career & Lab Safety
The individual study project for SBI4U is designed for you to study a career related to biology on your own. You are expected to take the majority of the responsibility for the selection of the topic, the planning of the project, and the implementation of the plans.
Unit 1: Biochemistry
In this unit, you will investigate the chemical structures, functions, and properties of biological molecules involved in common cellular processes and biochemical reactions. You will demonstrate an understanding of these structures and functions as well as the biochemical reactions required to maintain normal cellular functions in the human body. Finally, you will analyze the technological applications of enzymes in some industrial processes, and evaluate technological advances in the field of cellular biology.
Unit 2: Metabolic Processes
In this unit, you will investigate the intricate processes and products of metabolic processes critical for life on Earth, such as cellular respiration and photosynthesis. You will demonstrate an understanding of the chemical changes and energy conversions that occur in metabolic processes. Finally, you will analyze the role of metabolic processes in the functioning of biotic and abiotic systems, and evaluate the importance of understanding these processes and related technologies to personal choices made in everyday life.
Unit 3: Molecular Genetics
In this unit, you will develop an understanding of concepts related to molecular genetics, and how genetic modification is applied in industry and agriculture. You will investigate, through virtual laboratory activities, the structures of cell components and their roles in processes that occur within
the cell. Finally, you will analyze some of the social, ethical, and legal issues associated with genetic research and biotechnology.
Unit 4: Homeostasis
In this unit, you will demonstrate an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of human body systems and explain the mechanisms that enable the body to maintain homeostasis. You will investigate the feedback mechanisms that maintain homeostasis in living organisms. Finally, you will evaluate the impact on the human body of selected chemical substances and of environmental factors related to human activity.
Unit 5: Population Dynamics
In this unit, you will demonstrate an understanding of concepts related to population growth, and explain the factors that affect the growth of various populations of species. You will investigate the characteristics of population growth, and use models to calculate the growth of populations within ecosystems. Finally, you will analyze the relationships between population growth, personal consumption, technological development, and our ecological footprint, and assess the effectiveness of some Canadian initiatives intended to assist expanding populations.
Final Mark will be determined following percentages:
70% Determined by the evaluations conducted throughout the duration of the course:
Products – Assignments, Test, Report
Observations – Presentations, Debates
Conversations – Conferences with the Teacher
30% Final Exam and/or Final Culminating Activity