Biology (生物)
This Biology Curriculum serves as a continuation of the Science (S1–3) Curriculum and builds on the strength of the current Biology curricula. It will provide a range of balanced learning experiences so that students develop the necessary scientific knowledge and understanding, skills and processes, and values and attitudes embedded in the “Life and Living” strand and other strands of science education. These are necessary for personal development to enable students to contribute towards a scientific and technological world. The curriculum will prepare students for their tertiary studies, vocational training and careers in various fields of life science. The emergence of a highly competitive and integrated economy, advanced scientific and technological innovations, and a growing knowledge base will continue to have a profound impact on our lives. In order to meet the challenges posed by these changes, the Biology Curriculum, like other science electives, provides a platform for developing scientific literacy and building up essential scientific knowledge and skills for life-long learning. Through the learning of biology, students will acquire relevant procedural and conceptual knowledge to help them understand many contemporary issues. They will become aware of the interconnections between science, technology, society and the environment. In addition, students will develop a respect for the living world, an attitude of responsible citizenship and a commitment to promote personal and community health. Biology is a rapidly advancing science incorporating a huge amount of information about living organisms. There is a mistaken impression that it is a subject involving memorisation of numerous unrelated facts. In this curriculum, it is hoped that students will develop a broad, general understanding of biological principles and concepts and at the same time acquire a body of essential facts. In order to make the study of biology exciting and relevant, it is suggested that it should be introduced in real life contexts. The adoption of a wide range of learning and teaching strategies and assessment practices is intended to stimulate interest in and create motivation for learning among students with a range of abilities and aspirations.
How We Teach Biology
Knowledge and Understanding
Students are expected to: a) acquire knowledge and develop an understanding of biological principles, concepts, terms and facts; b) apply biological knowledge and concepts to familiar and unfamiliar situations; c) show an understanding of the application and uses of biological knowledge in daily life; and d) develop an understanding of current issues and developments in biology.
Skills and Processes
Students are expected to: a) make careful observations, ask relevant questions, identify problems and formulate hypotheses for investigations; b) recognise the importance of evidence in supporting, modifying or refuting proposed scientific theories; c) develop the ability to think scientifically and creatively; d) acquire an analytical mind to critically evaluate biology-related issues; e) identify the pros and cons of the application of biological knowledge for informed decision-making; f) plan and conduct scientific investigations individually or collaboratively with appropriate instruments and methods, collect quantitative and qualitative information with accuracy, analyse data and draw conclusions for problem-solving; g) use information technology to process and present scientific information; and h) communicate ideas and views effectively with others, using the language of science.
Values and Attitudes
Students are expected to: a) show an interest in the study of biology, appreciate the wonders and complexity of Nature, and show respect for all living things and the environment; b) recognise their responsibility for conserving, protecting and maintaining the quality of the environment; c) develop positive values and attitudes towards adopting a healthy lifestyle; d) be aware of the dynamic nature of biological knowledge and appreciate the role of science and technology in understanding the living world; and e) be aware of the application of biological knowledge in society and its social, ethical, economic and environmental implications.
Syllabus Breakdown & Free Notes
Cells and Molecules of Life (生命的細胞和分子)
Cells and biomolecules are fundamental units of life. Organisms are built up of these fundamental units which function as an integrated whole. The study of the structure and function of cells will lay the foundation for students to understand and relate cellular processes to the essential life processes of organisms. The study of the discovery of cells will enable students to appreciate the contribution of technology to the advancement of science and the dynamic nature of biological knowledge.
Key Concepts
Read Free Notes- •Water, Inorganic Ions and Life
- •Biomolecules: Building Blocks and Functions
- •Discovery of Cells and Microscopes
- •Light Microscopy and Specimen Preparation
- •+ 7 more topics