Standard: Life Sciences

Students demonstrate an understanding of how living systems function and how they interact with the physical environment. This includes an understanding of the cycling of matter and flow of energy in living systems. An understanding of the characteristics, structure and function of cells, organisms and living systems will be developed. Students will also develop a deeper understanding of the principles of heredity, biological evolution, and the diversity and interdependence of life. Students demonstrate an understanding of different historical perspectives, scientific approaches and emerging scientific issues associated with the life sciences.

• Benchmark A: [11-12]
  Explain how processes at the cellular level affect the functions and characteristics of an organism.
  

• Benchmark B: [11-12]
  Explain how humans are connected to and impact natural systems.
  

• Benchmark C: [11-12]
  Explain how the molecular basis of life and the principles of genetics determine inheritance.
  

• Benchmark D: [11-12]
  Relate how biotic and abiotic global cahnges have occured in the past and will continue to do so in the future.
  

• Benchmark E: [11-12]
  Explain the interconnectedness of the components of a natural system.
  

• Benchmark F: [11-12]
  Explain how human choices today will affect the quality and quantity of life on earth.
  

• Benchmark G: [11-12]
  Summarize the historical development of scientific theoris and ideas within the study of life sciences.