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Middle School Middle School Life Science

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Suggested Prerequisites

N/A

Description

You will discover the intricate features and complexities of living things and how all life on Earth is interconnected. Throughout this two-segment course, you will explore topics including cells, organization of life, genetics, the human body, energy needs, and ecology. Through virtual tours and 3D learning experiences, you will dive into history and explore how living things have changed over millions of years. This course provides opportunities to build scientific models, perform research, and complete lab investigations, each of which supports the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through virtual simulations, hands-on investigations, and collaborative opportunities, you will build an understanding of life on Earth that will enhance your understanding of the world around you.

Module One: What Is Life?

-Scientific investigations and the scientific method

-Experimental design

-The cell theory

-Structure and function of cell organelles 

-Homeostasis at the cellular level


Module Two: Organization of Life

-The Linnaean system of classification

-Taxonomy

-Domains and kingdoms

-Organization of organisms

-Data analysis


Module Three: Cell Division and Genetics

-Function of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)

-Structure and function of chromosomes

-Heredity and traits

-Sexual and asexual reproduction

-Cell division: mitosis and meiosis

-Patterns of inheritance

-Genetic probabilities with Punnett squares and pedigrees

Module Four: Body Systems and Health

-Functions of major body systems

-Homeostasis

-Types of pathogens

-Cellular respiration

-The law of conservation of energy

-Impacts of biotechnology

 

Module Five: Organization of Life

-The scientific theory of evolution

-Fossil evidence as support for the scientific theory of evolution

-Differences between scientific theories and laws

-The effect of genetic variation on changes in organisms

-Adaptations and extinction

-Advantages and disadvantages of biotechnology

-Conditions required for natural selection

 

Module Six: Cell Division and Genetics

-The process of photosynthesis

-The carbon cycle

-Benefits and limits of scientific models

-The roles of producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem

-Energy transfer through a food web and trophic levels

-The relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration

-Symbiosis and organism relationships

-Limiting factors in an ecosystem

NCAA-Approved Courses

Our NCAA approved courses are updated often. Please visit the NCAA Eligibility Center and use our school code to see all current eligible courses. The FlexPoint Virtual School NCAA High School code is: 850171