Curriculum for Excellence

Biological systems

Body systems and cells

Learners develop their knowledge and understanding of the structure and function of organs of the body, including the senses. They learn about cells as the basic units of life, and their organisation to form familiar body systems.  Through observation, research and practical investigation learners explore the risk and impact of microorganisms in relation to health, and then in industrial processes. They experience the use of technology in monitoring health and improving the quality of life and develop informed views on the moral and ethical implications of controversial biological procedures.

Early First Second Third Fourth
I am aware of my growing body and I am learning the correct names for its different parts and how they work.
By researching, I can describe the position and function of the skeleton and major organs of the human body and discuss what I need to do to keep them healthy.
By investigating some body systems and potential problems which they may develop, I can make informed decisions to help me to maintain my health and wellbeing.
I have explored the structure and function of organs and organ systems and can relate this to the basic biological processes required to sustain life.
I can explain how biological actions which take place in response to external and internal changes work to maintain stable body conditions.
I can identify my senses and use them to explore the world around me.
I have explored my senses and can discuss their reliability and limitations in responding to the environment.
I have explored the structure and function of sensory organs to develop my understanding of body actions in response to outside conditions.
I have explored the role of technology in monitoring health and improving the quality of life.
Through investigation, I can explain how changes in learned behaviour due to internal and external stimuli are of benefit to the survival of species.
  I know the symptoms of some common diseases caused by germs. I can explain how they are spread and discuss how some methods of preventing and treating disease benefit society.
I have contributed to investigations into the role of microorganisms in producing and breaking down some materials.
Using a microscope, I have developed my understanding of the structure and variety of cells and of their functions.
By researching cell division, I can explain its role in growth and repair and can discuss how some cells can be used therapeutically.
      I have contributed to investigations into the different types of microorganisms and can explain how their growth can be controlled.
I have taken part in practical activities which involve the use of enzymes and microorganisms to develop my understanding of their properties and their use in industries.
      I have explored how the body defends itself against disease and can describe how vaccines can provide protection.
I can debate the moral and ethical issues associated with some controversial biological procedures.
 

Inheritance

Starting with observations of similarities and differences between individuals, learners develop their understanding of how organisms develop and pass on genetic information to the next generation.  They begin to develop their knowledge of genetics and of the role of DNA and examine moral and ethical questions which arise from technological developments.

Early First Second Third Fourth
I recognise that we have similarities and differences but are all unique.
By comparing generations of families of humans, plants and animals, I can begin to understand how characteristics are inherited.
By investigating the lifecycles of plants and animals, I can recognise the different stages of their development.
I understand the processes of fertilisation and embryonic development and can discuss possible risks to the embryo.
Through investigation, I can compare and contrast how different organisms grow and develop.
    By exploring the characteristics offspring inherit when living things reproduce, I can distinguish between inherited and non-inherited characteristics.
I have extracted DNA and understand its function. I can express an informed view of the risks and benefits of DNA profiling.
Through evaluation of a range of data, I can compare sexual and asexual reproduction and explain their importance for survival of species.
        I can use my understanding of how characteristics are inherited to solve simple genetic problems and relate this to my understanding of DNA, genes and chromosomes.