S2 Biology

St. Aloysius’ College E-learning

Module 2.1 – Microscope and Cells

The parts of the microscope and their functions; use of a microscope; calculation of magnifications; organisms and cells; preparation of cheek cells of onion skin; examination of prepared slides to compare animal and plant cells.

Module 2.2 – Plant and Animal Reproduction

Pupils undertake comparison of sex cells and their role in fertilisation. Pupils study the basics of flower anatomy and the roles played by the male and female parts in pollination. They also study the male and female reproductive systems and development of the embryo in the womb. Pupils consider the types of fertilisation in other animals and their survival chances based on this and their method of development.

Module 2.3 – Digestion

Pupils will study the basic structure of the human digestive system. They will learn about both the mechanical and chemical breakdown of the nutrients in their food. They will be introduced to the role of enzymes and carry out practical investigations.

Module 2.4– Cell Division

Pupils will learn about the complex process of cell division. Chromosomes will be described in detail, explaining the way genetic information is stored on them in units called genes that are made of DNA. The need for nuclear division to take place before cell division in the cell cycle is then explained and the steps in this nuclear division, mitosis, are then covered.

Module 2.5– Photosynthesis and Respiration

Pupils will learn about the basic biochemical reactions of photosynthesis and respiration. They will be introduced to the word equations for each process and begin to learn the significance of each of these reactions to all living organisms.