UNIT ONE:Biochemistry

Essential Question: What is the relationship between the chemical properties of biological molecules and the biochemical reactions required to maintain normal cellular function and sustain life?

• In this unit, students will learn about electronegativity and intermolecular forces. Students will also learn about organic compounds and the importance of functional groups. Students will investigate macromolecules including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. Students will take a closer look at enzymes and enzyme activity as well as the different parts of a cell and their functions including membrane structure, function and transport.

Unit Two: Metabolic Processes

Essential Question: How and why do plants and animals obtain energy in different ways?

• In this unit, students will learn about metabolic processes including cellular respiration and it’s various stages. Students will also learn about Photosynthesis and light dependent and light independent reactions.

UNIT THREE: Molecular Genetics

Essential Question: How are genes expressed?

• In this unit, students will learn about the structure of DNA and RNA as well as DNA replication. They will learn about protein synthesis; transcription and translation. Students will investigate gene regulation and how mutations occur. Students will also learn about various biotechnological tools and techniques.

UNIT FOUR: Homeostasis

Essential Question: How do the endocrine, excretory and nervous system interact through feedback mechanisms in order to maintain homeostasis?

• In this unit, students will learn about homeostasis and it’s significance. Students will also learn about the nervous system and the functions of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. They will investigate the endocrine system and learn about the hormones that affect their blood sugar, stress and metabolism. Students will also learn about the different reproductive hormones. Students will learn about the excretory system and why it is important for their bodies to excrete wastes.

UNIT FIVE: Population Dynamics

Essential Question: How are human population growth, personal consumption, technological development and ecological footprint related?

• In this unit, students will learn about population dynamics. Students will investigate the changes in population, factors that regulate natural populations and the effects of human population growth, personal consumption and technological development.

FINAL EXAM: Proctored Exam

20% of Final Grade

• This exam is the final evaluation of SBI4U. All coursework should be completed and submitted before writing the final exam, please be advised that once the exam is written, any outstanding coursework will be given a grade of zero. The exam will be two hours. There are two options for taking the exam:
• WRITE EXAM AT ELITE HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS: If you live close to Elite High School Campus, or if you attend Elite High School Campus, you can take your exam there. You will receive a confirmation email with next steps and exam information once your exam date is scheduled.The exam can be rescheduled or cancelled with a reasonable proof in case of a medical emergency.
• USE EXAMITY PROCTORING SERVICE: For a fee of 22 USD*, students can arrange to take their exam in the comfort of their own home, at any time, on any day. Please select Examity Exam in the exam section of your course to set up your Examity profile and schedule your exam. Exams must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. *Price is subject to change.
• Please email exams@elitehighschool.com if you need assistance.