NOTE 1: Please note that this class has an evolution component, so this class is not a secular/religious curriculum.

NOTE 2: Self-Paced means no live sessions. This allows the student more flexibility to access the course when ready and work at their own pace. Students may also join after the class deadline, the lessons will be ready upon registration. The set class period dates are for registration purposes only, the student can join after the deadline. 

This course is a continuation of Self-Paced- part 1. This high school biology course is a continuation of the first part, delving even deeper into the intricacies of the living world. We will explore genetic mutations and genetic engineering, unraveling the secrets of the human genome and its impact on our health and evolution. As we continue our journey, we'll uncover the principles of biological classification, meet microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, protists, and fungi, and gain a deeper understanding of plants and their vital role in terrestrial ecosystems. Finally, we'll explore the rich diversity of the animal kingdom and dive into the fascinating dynamics of ecosystems and populations, all while appreciating the profound influence of biology on our lives.

Introduction to genetic mutations and their role in genetic variation.
Discussion of different types of mutations and their potential effects on organisms.
Week 1 (January 15th - 21st): Mutations

Week 2 (January 22nd - 28th): Genetic Engineering - Part 1

Exploring the basics of genetic engineering techniques and their applications.
Discussing the tools and methods used in genetic modification.
Week 3 (January 29th - February 4th): Genetic Engineering - Part 2

Continuing the study of genetic engineering, including genetic modification in agriculture and medicine.
Examining ethical considerations and controversies surrounding genetic engineering.
Week 4 (February 5th - 11th): Human Genomes

Introduction to the human genome, its structure, and the Human Genome Project.
Understanding the significance of genetic diversity and its impact on health and evolution.
Week 5 (February 12th - 18th): Darwinian Evolution #1

Exploring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.
Discussing the evidence for evolution and its implications for the diversity of life.
Week 6 (February 19th - 25th): Darwinian Evolution #2

Continuing the study of evolution by examining speciation, adaptation, and the fossil record.
Investigating the role of mutations and genetic variation in the evolutionary process.
Week 7 (February 26th - March 4th): Classification

Understanding the principles of biological classification and taxonomy.
Exploring the classification system, including domains, kingdoms, and phyla.
Week 8 (March 5th - 11th): Classification - Part 2

Delving deeper into classification, focusing on the hierarchy of species.
Discussing the role of cladistics and molecular techniques in modern taxonomy.
Week 9 (March 12th - 18th): Bacteria and Viruses

Exploring the characteristics of bacteria and viruses.
Discussing their roles in human health, disease, and the environment.
Week 10 (March 19th - 25th): Bacteria and Viruses - Part 2

Continuing the study of bacteria and viruses, with a focus on antibiotic resistance and viral replication.
Investigating the significance of bacteria and viruses in biotechnology.
Week 11 (March 26th - April 1st): Protists

Introduction to protists and their diversity.
Exploring the ecological roles of protists and their importance in aquatic ecosystems.
Week 12 (April 2nd - 8th): Fungi

Understanding the characteristics of fungi and their classification.
Discussing the roles of fungi in decomposition, mycorrhizae, and human health.
Week 13 (April 9th - 15th): Plants - Part 1

Introduction to plant biology, focusing on plant structures, growth, and reproduction.
Exploring the role of plants in terrestrial ecosystems.
Week 14 (April 16th - 22nd): Plants - Part 2

Continuing the study of plants, with a focus on plant physiology, responses to the environment, and plant breeding.
Discussing the importance of plants in agriculture and conservation.
Week 15 (April 23rd - 29th): Animal Kingdom - Part 1

Introduction to the animal kingdom and its major phyla.
Exploring the diversity of invertebrate animals.
Week 16 (April 30th - May 6th): Animal Kingdom - Part 2

Continuing the study of the animal kingdom, focusing on chordates and vertebrates.
Discussing the characteristics and adaptations of different animal groups.
Week 17 (May 7th - 13th): Ecosystems and Communities

Exploring ecological concepts, including ecosystems, biotic and abiotic factors, and ecological relationships.
Investigating energy flow, nutrient cycling, and the stability of ecosystems.
Week 18 (May 14th - 20th): Population Ecology

Understanding population dynamics, population growth, and factors affecting population size.
Exploring ecological research methods and conservation biology principles.