FCPS Program of Studies

Science Curriculum

Biology

Students engage in scientific inquiry through lab work as we explore biological processes. All class and laboratory activities focus on life processes that occur within organisms or cells as well as the characteristics of life including: reproduction, development, adaptation to environment. Major topics of study include molecular biology, cells, genetics, organisms, evolution and ecology. The course includes a unit on human life education that addresses the topics of human reproduction and human development. Parents have the option of withdrawing their children from any or all topics included in the state-mandated Family Life Education portion. Students opting-out will be provided with alternative biology lessons. If dissections are a part of the laboratory experience, alternatives are available. Students are required to take the Standards of Learning End of Course Test.

Last Updated: 08/17/12 10:33 AM

SCI.BIO

Standard 1

PLAN AND CONDUCT INVESTIGATIONS

Benchmark 1.a

Record Observations of Living Organisms in the Lab and in the Field

	Indicator 1.a.1
	Collect preliminary observations, both qualitative and quantitative

	Indicator 1.a.2
	Record observations in the lab and in the field

	Indicator 1.a.3
	Develop skills in the proper use of the compound light microscope

	Indicator 1.a.4
	Compare/contrast compound microscopes to another form of magnification

Benchmark 1.b

Formulate Hypotheses Based on Observations and Scientific Literature

	Indicator 1.b.1
	Differentiate observations, inferences, and predictions

	Indicator 1.b.2
	Formulate hypotheses based on cause and effect relationships

	Indicator 1.b.3
	Justify hypotheses based on observations and scientific literature

	Indicator 1.b.4
	Understand that scientists investigate observed natural phenomena

Benchmark 1.c

Define Variables and Design Investigations to Test Hypotheses

	Indicator 1.c.1
	Define a problem, generate ideas, and test hypotheses

	Indicator 1.c.2
	Identify independent variables, dependent variables, and constants

	Indicator 1.c.3
	Identify an experimental control and the need for repeated trials

	Indicator 1.c.4
	Design clear and replicable experimental procedures

Benchmark 1.d

Use Graphing and Arithmetic Calculations as Data Analysis Tools

	Indicator 1.d.1
	Plot data graphically, showing independent and dependent variables

	Indicator 1.d.2
	Determine the range, mean, and values for data

	Indicator 1.d.3
	Describe trends from the data where appropriate

Benchmark 1.e

Form Conclusions Based on Recorded Quantitative and Qualitative Data

	Indicator 1.e.1
	Use evidence, apply logic, and construct an argument for conclusions

	Indicator 1.e.2
	Apply reasoning skills to contrast fact from opinion

Benchmark 1.f

Identify and Discuss Sources of Error in Experimental Design

	Indicator 1.f.1
	Identify sources of experimental error and suggest improvements

	Indicator 1.f.2
	Recognize instrument limitations and potential for error

Benchmark 1.g

Determine the Validity of Data

	Indicator 1.g.1
	Discuss validity of results based on # of trials and variance in data

	Indicator 1.g.2
	Evaluate the validity of a scientific explanation

	Indicator 1.g.3
	Recognize and discuss contradictory or unusual data

	Indicator 1.g.4
	Recognize sources of bias and its influence on data interpretation

Benchmark 1.h

Use Chemicals and Equipment in a Safe Manner

	Indicator 1.h.1
	Use chemicals and laboratory equipment safely and effectively

Benchmark 1.i

Use Technology to Gather Data, Communicate Results, Model & Simulate

	Indicator 1.i.1
	Identify and use appropriate technology

	Indicator 1.i.2
	Record quantitative data in clearly labeled tables with units

	Indicator 1.i.3
	Communicate results, using appropriate technology

	Indicator 1.i.4
	Use computers to model concepts & simulate experimental conditions

	Indicator 1.i.5
	Work collaboratively with a group to present scientific knowledge

	Indicator 1.i.6
	Self-assess to analyze the effectiveness of group interactions

Benchmark 1.j

Conduct Research Using Scientific Literature

	Indicator 1.j.1
	Identify valid resources and apply them ethically and appropriately

	Indicator 1.j.2
	Identify a biological problem or issue presented in an article

	Indicator 1.j.3
	Properly cite and format sources

	Indicator 1.j.4
	Summarize and analyze scientific articles from newspapers or journals

	Indicator 1.j.5
	Design research based on popular and scientific literature

Benchmark 1.k

Differentiate Between a Scientific Hypothesis, Theory, and Law

	Indicator 1.k.1
	Compare and contrast hypotheses, theories and laws

Benchmark 1.l

Recognize Alternative Scientific Explanations and Models

	Indicator 1.l.1
	Recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models

	Indicator 1.l.2
	Describe scientific theories that have been modified over time

	Indicator 1.l.3
	Demonstrate how other disciplines connect to scientific discovery

Benchmark 1.m

Use Current Applications of Biological Concepts

	Indicator 1.m.1
	Use correct terminology to explain and defend scientific arguments

	Indicator 1.m.2
	Effectively communicate biological concepts

	Indicator 1.m.3
	Participate in group discussion on scientific topics

	Indicator 1.m.4
	Develop a problem-solving strategy to solve a real biological problem

SCI.BIO

Standard 2

UNDERSTAND CHEMICAL & BIOCHEMICAL PROCESSES ESSENTIAL FOR LIFE

Benchmark 2.a

Understand Water Chemistry and Its Impact on Life Processes

	Indicator 2.a.1
	Understand that water molecules are cohesive and adhesive

	Indicator 2.a.2
	Distinguish the unique chemical properties of water

	Indicator 2.a.3
	Use the pH scale to identify substances as acidic, basic, or neutral

Benchmark 2.b

Understand the Structure and Function of Macromolecules

	Indicator 2.b.1
	Recognize the main elements found in a living cell

	Indicator 2.b.2
	Understand that carbon atoms can join to form large complex molecules

	Indicator 2.b.3
	Identify the structure and function of macromolecules

	Indicator 2.b.4
	Identify the functions of different types of proteins

	Indicator 2.b.5
	Describe dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis of macromolecules

Benchmark 2.c

Understand the Nature of Enzymes

	Indicator 2.c.1
	Describe structure & role of enzymes and the effect of pH and temp

	Indicator 2.c.2
	Relate an enzyme to a catalyst; Compare effects on activation energy

Benchmark 2.d

Understand the Flow of Energy Through Photosynthesis and Respiration

	Indicator 2.d.1
	Explain how light is the initial source of energy for most communities

	Indicator 2.d.2
	Recognize and compare the equations for photosynthesis and respiration

	Indicator 2.d.3
	Describe the role of ATP in the storage and release of chemical energy

	Indicator 2.d.4
	Explain the functions of chloroplasts and mitochondria

	Indicator 2.d.5
	Compare and contrast aerobic and anaerobic respiration

	Indicator 2.d.6
	Distinguish between the types of anaerobic respiration

	Indicator 2.d.7
	Explain chemosynthesis as an energy alternative for organisms

	Indicator 2.d.8
	Calculate the Rf value of plant pigments

	Indicator 2.d.9
	Describe the function of leaf parts in gas and waste exchange

SCI.BIO

Standard 3

UNDERSTAND RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN CELL STRUCTURE & FUNCTION

Benchmark 3.a

Investigate and Understand Evidence Supporting the Cell Theory

	Indicator 3.a.1
	State the cell theory and explain its importance as a unifying theme

	Indicator 3.a.2
	Describe the key events leading to the development of the cell theory

Benchmark 3.b

Understand Characteristics of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

	Indicator 3.b.1
	Compare & contrast characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

	Indicator 3.b.2
	Understand the evolutionary relationships between cell types

Benchmark 3.c

Understand Similarities Between Single Cells and Whole Organisms

	Indicator 3.c.1
	Compare activities of an organelle in a single cell & a whole organism

	Indicator 3.c.2
	Identify essential cell structures and their functions

	Indicator 3.c.3
	Compare and contrast plant and animal cells

	Indicator 3.c.4
	Understand cell specialization in multicellular organisms

	Indicator 3.c.5
	Compare and contrast the structure and function of smooth and rough ER

Benchmark 3.d

Investigate and Understand the Cell Membrane Model

	Indicator 3.d.1
	Illustrate and explain the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane

	Indicator 3.d.2
	Describe the effect of selective permeability on the life of the cell

	Indicator 3.d.3
	Describe processes associated with movement across the membrane

	Indicator 3.d.4
	Relate a cell's external solute conc. to its internal solute conc.

	Indicator 3.d.5
	Relate polarity to the components & orientation of the lipid bi-layer

	Indicator 3.d.6
	Differentiate and apply the terms isotonic, hypertonic, and hypotonic

	Indicator 3.d.7
	Compare and contrast specific examples of active transport

Benchmark 3.e

Understand Impact of Surface Area to Volume Ratio on Life Processes

	Indicator 3.e.1
	Analyze the reasons why cell size is limited

	Indicator 3.e.2
	Compare a cell's ability to transport materials based on SA:V ratio

SCI.BIO

Standard 4

UNDERSTAND LIFE FUNCTIONS OF ARCHAE, BACTERIA, AND EUKARYA

Benchmark 4.a

Compare the Metabolic Activities of Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya

	Indicator 4.a.1
	Compare and contrast the metabolic activities of all domains of life

	Indicator 4.a.2
	Compare and contrast archaebacteria and eubacteria

Benchmark 4.b

Investigate and Understand the Maintenance of Homeostasis

	Indicator 4.b.1
	Demonstrate the interactions of organ systems to maintain homeostasis

	Indicator 4.b.2
	Distinguish the necessary life functions of cells & organisms

	Indicator 4.b.3
	Identify the proper response an organism would exhibit to changes

Benchmark 4.c

Understand Variations of Structures/Functions in the Eukarya Kingdoms

	Indicator 4.c.1
	Categorize and compare the Eukarya kingdoms

	Indicator 4.c.2
	Explore the diversity of the Kingdoms: Plantae, Protista, and Fungi.

	Indicator 4.c.3
	Identify examples of major animal phyla

	Indicator 4.c.4
	Compare structures and adaptations of different animal phyla

	Indicator 4.c.5
	Compare the reproductive structures of angiosperms and gymnosperms

Benchmark 4.d

Understand Human Health Issues, Human Anatomy, and Body Systems

	Indicator 4.d.1
	Describe the relationship between atoms, cells, tissues, organs, etc.

	Indicator 4.d.2
	Recognize that different body tissues are made of different cells

	Indicator 4.d.3
	Describe the functions and interactions of the human body systems

	Indicator 4.d.4
	Identify the main factors that affect human health

	Indicator 4.d.5
	Understand microbial causes of disease and explain Koch's postulates

	Indicator 4.d.6
	Outline modern health practices to prevent microbial disease

	Indicator 4.d.7
	Recognize non-microbial causes of disease

	Indicator 4.d.8
	Discuss health issues based on knowledge of body systems

Benchmark 4.e

Understand How Viruses Compare with Organisms

	Indicator 4.e.1
	Explain how viruses compare with organisms

	Indicator 4.e.2
	Compare & contrast a virus and a cell: genetic material, reproduction

Benchmark 4.f

Understand Evidence Supporting the Germ Theory of Disease

	Indicator 4.f.1
	Describe the impact of Pasteur & Koch's experimentation and hypotheses

	Indicator 4.f.2
	Explain work of Redi & Pasteur to disprove spontaneous generation

SCI.BIO

Standard 5

UNDERSTAND MECHANISMS OF INHERITANCE AND PROTEIN SYNTHESIS

Benchmark 5.a

Investigate and Understand Cell Growth and Division

	Indicator 5.a.1
	Create a diagram to model the stages of mitosis; Explain each stage

	Indicator 5.a.2
	Describe the cell cycle, including interphase, mitosis and cytokinesis

	Indicator 5.a.3
	Compare and contrast the processes and function of mitosis and meiosis

Benchmark 5.b

Understand Gamete Formation

	Indicator 5.b.1
	Create a diagram to model the stages of meiosis; Explain each stage

	Indicator 5.b.2
	Describe meiosis

	Indicator 5.b.3
	Describe fertilization

Benchmark 5.c

Investigate and Understand Cell Specialization

	Indicator 5.c.1
	Describe importance of cell specialization for multicellular organisms

	Indicator 5.c.2
	Recognize that stem cells precede cell differentiation

	Indicator 5.c.3
	Apply concept of cell specialization to current technology and ethics

Benchmark 5.d

Predict Trait Inheritance Based on the Mendelian Laws of Heredity

	Indicator 5.d.1
	Explain how the Mendelian laws apply to patterns of inheritance

	Indicator 5.d.2
	Differentiate and apply the terms genotype and phenotype

	Indicator 5.d.3
	Use a Punnett square to predict monohybrid and dihybrid crosses

Benchmark 5.e

Understand the Historical Development of the Structural Model of DNA

	Indicator 5.e.1
	Describe key events leading to the development of the model of DNA

Benchmark 5.f

Investigate and Understand Genetic Variation

	Indicator 5.f.1
	Provide reasons for genetic diversity and why it can be an advantage

	Indicator 5.f.2
	Summarize the importance of meiosis to genetic variety

	Indicator 5.f.3
	Evaluate karyotype charts; Determine gender and genetic health

	Indicator 5.f.4
	Recognize the variety of patterns of inheritance by citing examples

	Indicator 5.f.5
	Describe causes & types of DNA mutations; Provide examples of +, -

	Indicator 5.f.6
	Distinguish between gene and chromosomal mutations in human diseases

	Indicator 5.f.7
	Recognize the difference between germ and somatic cell mutations

	Indicator 5.f.8
	Describe antigen/antibody reactions in blood donation & transfusions

	Indicator 5.f.9
	Calculate the gene frequency for genetic traits

Benchmark 5.g

Understand the Structure, Function and Replication of Nucleic Acids

	Indicator 5.g.1
	Describe the basic structure of DNA and complementary base pairing

	Indicator 5.g.2
	Explain the process of DNA replication, including the role of enzymes

	Indicator 5.g.3
	Describe the function of DNA in inheritance

	Indicator 5.g.4
	Given a DNA sequence, write a complementary mRNA strand

	Indicator 5.g.5
	Contrast the structure and nature of DNA and RNA

Benchmark 5.h

Understand Events Involved in the Construction of Proteins

	Indicator 5.h.1
	Explain protein synthesis including DNA transcription and translation

	Indicator 5.h.2
	Describe the structure of the chromosome

Benchmark 5.i

Understand the Use, Limitations and Misuse of Genetic Information

	Indicator 5.i.1
	Describe uses, limitations, and potential for misuse of genetic info

Benchmark 5.j

Explore the Impact of DNA Technologies

	Indicator 5.j.1
	Discuss DNA technology and its impact on society

	Indicator 5.j.2
	Describe the Human Genome Project; Discuss practical & ethical issues

	Indicator 5.j.3
	Evaluate examples of genetic engineering: useful products, controversy

	Indicator 5.j.4
	Understand how restriction enzymes are used in genetic engineering

	Indicator 5.j.5
	Perform gel electrophoresis to sort molecules based on size and charge

SCI.BIO

Standard 6

UNDERSTAND BASIS FOR MODERN CLASSIFICATION SYSTEMS

Benchmark 6.a

Investigate and Understand Structural Similarities Among Organisms

	Indicator 6.a.1
	Utilize binomial nomenclature

	Indicator 6.a.2
	Recognize the levels of the current hierarchy of classification

	Indicator 6.a.3
	Demonstrate how anatomical structures support the theory of evolution

	Indicator 6.a.4
	Construct and utilize dichotomous keys to classify objects & organisms

	Indicator 6.a.5
	Investigate flora and fauna in the field; Apply classification systems

Benchmark 6.b

Investigate and Understand Fossil Record Interpretation

	Indicator 6.b.1
	Compare structural characteristics of extinct with present organisms

Benchmark 6.c

Compare Developmental Stages in Different Organisms

	Indicator 6.c.1
	Recognize similarities in embryonic stages; Infer relationships

Benchmark 6.d

Examine Biochemical Similarities and Differences Among Organisms

	Indicator 6.d.1
	Compare biochemical evidence and describe relationships

Benchmark 6.e

Understand That Classification Systems Adapt to New Discoveries

	Indicator 6.e.1
	Interpret a cladogram or phylogenic tree

	Indicator 6.e.2
	Recognize that systems of classification adapt to new discoveries

SCI.BIO

Standard 7

UNDERSTAND HOW POPULATIONS CHANGE THROUGH TIME

Benchmark 7.a

Understand Evidence Found in Fossil Records

	Indicator 7.a.1
	Explain how evidence found in fossil records shows change over time

	Indicator 7.a.2
	Determine fossil's relative age given rock position & absolute dating

	Indicator 7.a.3
	Differentiate relative dating and absolute dating techniques

Benchmark 7.b

Understand Impact of Genetic Variation/Reproduction/Environment

	Indicator 7.b.1
	Explain that genetic diversity increases population survival

	Indicator 7.b.2
	Describe impact of reproductive strategies on a population's survival

	Indicator 7.b.3
	Predict the impact of environmental pressures on populations

Benchmark 7.c

Understand How Natural Selection Leads to Adaptations

	Indicator 7.c.1
	Recognize and describe the mechanism of natural selection

	Indicator 7.c.2
	Explain how natural selection leads to changes in gene frequency

Benchmark 7.d

Understand the Emergence of New Species

	Indicator 7.d.1
	Examine the factors affecting speciation

	Indicator 7.d.2
	Illustrate the effect of selective breeding on successive generations

Benchmark 7.e

Understand Scientific Explanations for Biological Evolution

	Indicator 7.e.1
	Explain Darwin's theory of natural selection using his evidence

	Indicator 7.e.2
	Compare and contrast punctuated equilibrium with gradualism

	Indicator 7.e.3
	Describe key events/scientists in development of evolutionary theory

SCI.BIO

Standard 8

UNDERSTAND POPULATION, COMMUNITY & ECOSYSTEM DYNAMIC EQUILIBRIA

Benchmark 8.a

Understand Interactions Within and Among Populations

	Indicator 8.a.1
	Define and sequence the hierarchy of the organization of life

	Indicator 8.a.2
	Graph/Interpret a population growth curve; Identify carrying capacity

	Indicator 8.a.3
	Make predictions about changes that could occur in population numbers

	Indicator 8.a.4
	Define and illustrate examples of interdependence

	Indicator 8.a.5
	Describe the effects of biotic and abiotic components on an ecosystem

Benchmark 8.b

Understand Nutrient Cycling and Energy Flow Through Ecosystems

	Indicator 8.b.1
	Identify the role of organisms in an ecosystem from a food chain & web

	Indicator 8.b.2
	Interpret how the flow of energy occurs between trophic levels

	Indicator 8.b.3
	Illustrate water/carbon/nitrogen cycles; Explain role of living things

Benchmark 8.c

Investigate and Understand Succession Patterns in Ecosystems

	Indicator 8.c.1
	Describe the patterns of succession found in ecosystems of Virginia

	Indicator 8.c.2
	Identify similarities & differences: primary and secondary succession

	Indicator 8.c.3
	Describe the characteristics of a climax community

Benchmark 8.d

Understand Effects of Natural Events & Human Activities on Ecosystems

	Indicator 8.d.1
	Describe how human intervention can impact the environment

	Indicator 8.d.2
	Recognize impact of human activities on the Chesapeake Bay watershed

	Indicator 8.d.3
	Explain the impact of eutrophication on local ecosystems

	Indicator 8.d.4
	Formulate ways of dealing with environmental problems

Benchmark 8.e

Analyze the Flora, Fauna, and Microorganisms of Virginia Ecosystems

	Indicator 8.e.1
	Observe and analyze the flora, fauna and microorganisms of Virginia

	Indicator 8.e.2
	Analyze the diversity of in an ecosystem

Essential - Standard, benchmark, or indicator from the VDOE Standards of Learning document. In the absence of VDOE standards for a given course, content subject to testing such as AP and IB can be labeled Essential.
Expected - Standard, benchmark, or indicator added by the FCPS Program of Studies to provide a context, a bridge, or an enhancement to the Essential SBIs.
Extended - Standard, benchmark, or indicator added by the FCPS Program of Studies generally used to differentiate instruction for advanced learners (Honors/GT)