中學生命科學-第 1 學期

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Welcome to my middle school school biology class!  This course begins with a consideration of the living condition and discussion of the unique properties of living organisms that set life apart from the non-living. It continues with molecular and cellular biology, from which it moves logically into reproduction and genetics. 

A high level of understanding in problem solving and the scientific methods is necessary for success in this course. This middle school biology course is designed to give students a detailed understanding of the concepts that lead to success  in other advanced courses, such as high school biology. It covers cell biology, cell structure  and cell function, biochemistry of macromolecules, genetics, evolution and ecology.

Week 1. Scientific methods 
During Week 1, in our course on "Scientific Methods in Biology," we will commence by getting to know one another to promote a supportive learning community. Following this, we will explore the essential components of scientific methods, including the formulation of hypotheses, development of theories, and the execution of experiments. These discussions will provide us with a foundational understanding of how scientific methods are applied within the context of biology.

Week 2. Designing a controlled experiment & emerging properties of life 
In Week 2 of our course, titled "Designing Controlled Experiments and Characteristics of Living Things," we will focus on the practical aspects of scientific inquiry. We will delve into the principles and techniques of designing controlled experiments, emphasizing the importance of variables and controls. Additionally, we will explore the fundamental characteristics that distinguish living organisms from non-living entities, providing a fundamental understanding of biology's core principles.

Week 3 (Week of September 19th) Cell Structures
We will compare and contrast the cellular structures of prokaryotes and eukaryotes (animal and plant cells). 

Week 4 (Week of September 26th) Cellular membrane and transport 
We will learn the properties of cellular membrane and how transport of different substances is regulated 

Week 5 (Week of October 3rd) Photosynthesis 
We will learn the role of photosynthesis and how it works 

Week 6 (Week of October 10th)  Introduction to genetics and mendelian genetics 
We will go over key terms related to genetics (dominance, recessiveness, etc.)
We will go over how to do Punnett squares and how to do genetics problems 

Week 7  (Week of October 17th)  Evolution
We will go over the theory of natural selection
We will go over how different examples of natural selection and other evolutionary examples 

Week 8  (Week of October 24st) Ecosystem
We will go over food webs and food chains 

Week 9 (Week of October 31st)  5 Kingdoms - Bacteria, Protists, Fungi
We will compare and contrast bacteria, protists, and fungi 

Week 10  (Week of November 7th) 5 Kingdoms - Plants and animals 
We will compare and contrasts different classes/phylum within plants and animals
 
Week 11  (Week of November 14st) Nervous system
We will go over how neurons transmit their electrical signals 
We will go over how different drugs can affect nervous systems 

Week 12 (Week of November 21th) Immune system 
We will go over basic components of innate and adaptive immune system
We will go over how immune system can be exploited for clinical purposes, such as vaccines 

Prior understanding of the subject is not required; all that is required is an open mind and an interest in the information provided. Therefore, the topics will not cycle back to the beginning or if new topics will be introduced in upcoming weeks; the meetings will not build on knowledge, skills, or assignments from previous weeks.   

 The class will be powerpoint-based lectures with some discussion questions.