Biology (ATC)
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1Describe the study of life and levels of organization
10% of exam
Biology is the study of living things and their organization.
- Life is organized from atoms → molecules → cells → organisms → ecosystems.
- All living things share traits: growth, reproduction, metabolism, and response.
- The cell is the basic unit of life.
- The scientific method guides biological inquiry.
2Describe the structures and functions of plant and animal cells
20% of exam
Cells have specialized parts called organelles.
- The nucleus holds DNA; mitochondria make energy (ATP).
- Ribosomes build proteins; the ER and Golgi process and ship them.
- Plant cells add a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large vacuole.
- The cell membrane controls what enters and leaves.
3Describe the mechanisms of genetics and heredity
20% of exam
Genetics explains how traits pass from parents to offspring.
- Genes on chromosomes carry hereditary information.
- Mendel's laws describe dominant/recessive inheritance.
- Punnett squares predict offspring ratios.
- Alleles, genotype, and phenotype describe genetic makeup and traits.
4Apply the principles of evolution
10% of exam
Evolution explains how species change over time.
- Natural selection favors traits that aid survival and reproduction.
- Darwin proposed descent with modification.
- Evidence includes fossils, anatomy, and DNA.
- Adaptation and variation drive evolutionary change.
5Describe evolution and biodiversity
10% of exam
Biodiversity is the variety of life produced by evolution.
- Speciation creates new species over time.
- Organisms are grouped by taxonomy (domain to species).
- Biodiversity supports ecosystem stability.
- Extinction and human activity reduce biodiversity.
6Identify structures and functions of plant and animal systems
20% of exam
Multicellular organisms have organ systems with specific jobs.
- Animal systems include digestive, circulatory, respiratory, and nervous.
- Plant systems handle transport (xylem/phloem), photosynthesis, and reproduction.
- Systems work together to maintain life.
- Structure relates closely to function.
7Describe the principles of ecology
10% of exam
Ecology studies interactions between organisms and their environment.
- Energy flows through food chains and webs (producers → consumers → decomposers).
- Nutrient cycles (carbon, nitrogen, water) recycle matter.
- Populations interact through competition, predation, and symbiosis.
- Ecosystems balance biotic and abiotic factors.