Biology


BIO.1 The student will plan and conduct investigations in which * observations of living things are recorded in the lab and in the field; * hypotheses are formulated based on observations; * variables are defined and investigations are designed to test hypotheses; * graphing and arithmetic calculations are used as tools in data analysis; * conclusions are formed based on recorded quantitative and qualitative data; * impacts of sources of error inherent in experimental design are identified and discussed; * validity of data is determined; * alternative explanations and models are recognized and analyzed; * appropriate technology is used for gathering and analyzing data and communicating results; and * research is used based on popular and scientific literature.

This SOL does not have a web site.



BIO.2 The student will investigate and understand the history of biological concepts. Key concepts include * evidence supporting the cell theory; * scientific explanations of the development of organisms through time; * causative agents of disease; * the evolution of the DNA model; and * the collaborative efforts of scientists, past and present.

DNA-Background/History and Classroom Activities

This site is mostly text, but extremely descriptive. It provides a detailed look at DNA (some graphics are available).



BIO.3 The student will investigate and understand biochemical principles essential for life. Key concepts include * water chemistry and its impact on life processes; * the structure and function of macromolecules; * the nature of enzymes; and * the significance of and relationship between photosynthesis and respiration.

Photosynthesis Center

An award winning site that contains a massive amount of information regarding photosynthesis. This mostly text site includes a detailed description of exactly what photosynthesis is.



BIO.4 The student will investigate and understand relationships between cell structure and function. Key concepts include * characterizing prokaryotic organisms; * exploring the diversity and variation of eukaryotes; * building analogies between the activities of a single cell and a whole organism; and * modeling the cell membrane, cell communication, and cell recognition.

Cells and Cell Division

A complete guide to cells. This extremely well organized site contains many cell links. Most of the links include wonderful pictures and graphics.



BIO.5 The student will investigate and understand life functions of monerans, protists, fungi, plants, and animals, including humans. Key concepts include * how their structures are alike and different; * comparison of their metabolic activities; * analyses of their responses to the environment; * maintenance of homeostasis; * human health issues, human anatomy, body systems, and life functions; * how viruses compare with organisms; and * observation of local organisms when applicable.

Phylogeny-Taxonomy Look Up

This site allows you to select the organism you are looking for and then provides a great amount of information about the orgainism. This site is extremely well organized and very easy to use.



BIO.6 The student will investigate and understand common mechanisms of inheritance and protein synthesis. Key concepts include * cell division; * sex cell formation; * cell specialization; * prediction of inheritance of traits based on the laws of heredity; * effects of genetic recombination and mutation; * events involved in the construction of proteins; and * exploration of the impact of DNA technologies.

Cells and Cell Division

A complete guide to cells. This extremely well organized site contains many cell links. Most of the links include wonderful pictures and graphics.



BIO.7 The student will investigate and understand bases for modern classification systems. Key concepts include * structural similarities in organisms; * fossil record interpretation; * comparison of developmental stages in different organisms; * examination of protein similarities and differences among organisms; * comparison of DNA sequences in organisms; * systems of classification that are adaptable to new scientific discoveries; and * examination of local flora and fauna where applicable.

Natural Perspective

A site full of colorful pictures and useful information. This site allows students to explore the different kingdoms. This is an extremely well organized and interesting site.



BIO.8 The student will investigate and understand how populations change through time. Key concepts include * examining evidence found in fossil records; * investigating how variation of traits, reproductive strategies, and environmental pressures impact on the survival of populations; * recognizing how adaptations lead to natural selection; and * exploring how new species emerge.

Take the Lucy Test

Allows you to compare the fossil records for humans and chimpanzees and then compare them to the fossils of Lucy. The quiz allows you to compare the records and then gives a description of each fossil. The quiz is easy to take, as well as short, and provides a section for comments.



BIO.9 The student will investigate and understand dynamic equilibria within populations, communities, and ecosystems. Key concepts include * interactions within and among populations including carrying capacities, limiting factors, and growth curves; * nutrient cycling with energy flow through ecosystems; * succession patterns in ecosystems; * the effects of natural events and human influences on ecosystems; and * analysis of local ecosystems.

The GLOBE Program

A must-join site! Students can communicate with others from around the worl. A wonderful way of exploring different regions in a non-traditionl manner.



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