SBI 3U COURSE OF STUDY

Unit I Cellular Functions

This unit focuses on the structure of living cells and the function of identified cell organelles. The
topics covered build on the work done in grade 9 science and prepare you for the biochemical approach
to cell physiology in the 12U Biology course. Specific topics include cell organelles, cellular transport
through the cell membrane, cell metabolism (photosynthesis and respiration) and cellular processes
(protein synthesis and digestion)

Unit II Genetic Continuity

This unit introduces the basic concepts of genetics, the science of heredity. The material presented
builds in part on the study of the cell begun in grade 9, in particular, the study of mitosis. The work of
Gregor Mendel is highlighted, not only because it provides the basis for the study of genetics but also
because it demonstrates several aspects of the scientific process.

Unit III Internal Systems and Regulation

Digestive System - Humans digest all their food extracellularly. Digestive enzymes are
secreted into the digestive tract to breakdown macromolecules into molecules small enough to
be absorbed. You will develop a sound working knowledge of the human digestive system; its
anatomy, its physiology and some of its enzymes.

Gas Exchange - The role played by oxygen and carbon dioxide in cellular metabolism is
covered in Unit I. This knowledge is extended by an understanding of how these gases are
brought into and removed from the bodies of vertebrate organisms. An introduction to the role
played by blood in this process leads naturally to the next unit on circulation.

Transport Systems - You will be study with the structure and function of the human
circulatory system, that is, the blood, the blood vessels and the heart. At the end of this unit you
will be reviewing each of these systems by a dissection of a fetal pig. You will continue your
review of internal systems in grade 12 by studying the nervous, excretory, endocrine and
immune systems.

Unit IV Diversity of Living Things

At least 1.7 million species of living organisms have been discovered. To organize these living
organisms into groups to avoid confusion scientists have developed a system of classification called
taxonomy. We will study this system and focus on the basic structure of viruses, bacteria, protests and
fungi and their role in the biosphere and their interactions with humans.

Unit V Plants: Anatomy, Growth and Functions

In this unit, the relationships between the structure and function of seeds, roots, and stems in common
vascular plants are examined. The emphasis is on the characteristics observed in these structures that
allow populations of plants to develop in many different environments
Unit Title Approximate
Number of Classes
TERM I
Cellular Functions 25
Genetic Continuity 15
Internal Systems and Regulation (begin) 10
TERM II
Internal Systems and Regulation ( finish) 15
Diversity of Living things 15
Plant Anatomy, Growth and Functions 20
HOMEWORK
Homework is the work you do at home in order to be successful in this class. At the grade 11
level, biology is not difficult to understand but there is a large amount of material you must
commit to memory. To be successful you need to read your textbook at least once (twice would
be preferable) and review your notes numerous times. Once you are very familiar with the
material you should make summaries of the key ideas. Consequently, at home, in addition to
doing assigned questions or worksheets, reading the textbook and rereading your notes and
making summaries are part of your job as a student.

CLASS TIME
Since there is a great deal of learning planned for each class, it is most important to arrive on
time each day. Bring your textbook with you to each class as most days you will be given time
to do some reading or answer questions from the text. Use your class time efficiently as there is
a lot to learn.
Besides practicing you oral communication skills, participation in class discussions will help
you understand and remember the material. You can not participate if you are not there.
Remember, regular attendance is essential to success in any course. If you are absent, you are
responsible for making up everything that you missed, including class notes, assignments and
homework. Get the phone numbers of a few classmates so you can call them if you are away so
you do not get too far behind.

EXTRA HELP
Few students understand everything that goes on in every class. It is also not always possible to
answer everyone’s questions during class time. Therefore, come and see me in the morning,
during lunch or arrange a special time for extra help if you need to clarify some points.

TESTS
On the average there will be one test per chapter. You will be told 3 to 5 days in advance the
test date. If you are absent on the day of a test, it is your responsibility to arrange with me to
write the test as soon as possible, usually on the first day that you return from your absence.

EVALUATON
• Term work 70%
o tests
o worksheets, lab drawings/reports
o class participation, homework
• Final examination 30%
Total 100%