Biology

Biology is the study of living organisms, their structures, functions, interactions, and evolution. This subject explores life from the smallest unit, the cell, to complex systems in plants, animals, and humans. Students learn how cells are organized into tissues, organs, and systems, and how these work together to sustain life.

Key areas include:

• Cells and organisation: Structure of plant and animal cells, organelles, diffusion, unicellular adaptations, and hierarchical organization.

• Skeletal and muscular systems: Human skeleton functions, biomechanics, and antagonistic muscles.

• Nutrition and digestion: Components of a balanced diet, energy requirements, digestive system organs, enzymes, and the role of bacteria.

• Gas exchange systems: Human lungs, breathing mechanisms, effects of exercise and smoking, and stomata in plants.

• Reproduction: Human reproductive systems, fertilisation, gestation, birth, and plant reproduction including pollination and seed dispersal.

• Health: Impact of drugs on behaviour and life processes.

• Material cycles and energy: Photosynthesis, respiration (aerobic and anaerobic), energy transfer, and adaptations of leaves.

• Interactions and interdependencies: Ecosystems, food webs, pollination, and environmental effects.

• Genetics and evolution: DNA, genes, inheritance, variation, natural selection, extinction, biodiversity, and gene banks.

This subject equips learners with an understanding of how living organisms survive, adapt, and interact, while highlighting the importance of biology in health, environment, and global sustainability.