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.

Prerequisite: Biology, Grade 11 (University Preparation)

Unit 1: Biochemistry

In this unit, students will learn about the technological applications used in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. They will learn about biological molecules and their chemical properties affecting the cellular processes and biochemical reactions and biochemical compounds that play important structural and functional roles in cells of all living organisms.

Unit 2: Metabolic Processes

In this unit, students will learn that the nature of the attractive forces existing between particles of a substance determines the properties and limits the uses of that substance. Students will also explore the technological devices based on the principles of atomic and molecular structure can have societal benefits and costs.

Unit 3: Energy Changes and Rates of Reaction

The unit will introduce students to DNA, which contains all the genetic information for any living organism. Students will learn about the proteins controlling the various cellular processes and genetic research and biotechnology that have social, legal, and ethical implications.

Unit 4: Homeostasis

In this unit, students will learn about the organisms and their strict limits on the internal conditions that they can tolerate. They will explore the environmental factors that affect homeostasis and how systems that maintain homeostasis rely on feedback mechanisms.

Unit 5: Population Dynamics

In this unit, students will learn about the population growth that follows predictable patterns and the increased consumption of resources and production of waste associated with population growth, resulting in specific stresses that affect the earth’s sustainability. Students will also investigate technological developments that can contribute to or help offset the ecological footprint associated with population growth and the consumption of natural resources.