Biology Weekly Lesson Plan

Course Overview:
Biology is the study of living organisms, encompassing their structure, function, growth,
evolution, and interactions with the environment. This course explores various biological
concepts, from cellular functions to ecological systems, and emphasizes the importance of
biotechnology in modern science.

General Objectives:

 Understand the structure and functions of cells and their components.

 Explore the fundamentals of genetics and inheritance patterns.
 Analyze the principles of ecology and evolutionary theory.
 Investigate human biology and the applications of biotechnology.

Week 1-2: Introduction to Biology

 Objective: Understand the fundamental characteristics of life, biological organization, and the
principles of cell theory.
 Topics:
o Characteristics of Life: Defining features that distinguish living organisms from non-living
matter.
o Biological Organization: Levels of organization from cells to ecosystems.
o Cell Theory: The foundational concept that all living organisms are composed of cells,
and cells are the basic unit of life.
 Activities:
o Microscopic Observation: Examine various types of cells under a microscope and
document their structure.
o Group Discussion: Discuss the importance of cell theory and its implications for biology.
 Assessment:
o Quiz on Basic Biological Terms: Evaluate understanding of key terms such as cell theory,
characteristics of life, and biological levels of organization.

Notes:

 Emphasize the foundational nature of cell theory in understanding biology.

 Use visuals or videos to showcase different cell types (e.g., plant, animal, bacterial cells).

Week 3-4: Cell Structure and Function

 Objective: Identify the structure and functions of cellular organelles and explain how substances
move across the cell membrane.
 Topics:
 o Cellular Organelles: Description and functions of key organelles (nucleus, mitochondria,
ribosomes, etc.).
o Cell Membrane: Structure and function, including selective permeability.
o Transport Mechanisms: Passive and active transport, including osmosis and diffusion.
 Activities:
o Model-Building: Students create physical or digital models of cell structures to
demonstrate organelle locations and functions.
 Assessment:
o Lab Report: Conduct an osmosis experiment and write a report explaining the results
and transport mechanisms involved.

Notes:

 Provide diagrams and models to help students visualize the cellular components.
 Emphasize the importance of the cell membrane in maintaining homeostasis within the cell.

Week 5-6: Genetics

 Objective: Explain the structure of DNA, its replication process, and basic principles of
Mendelian genetics.
 Topics:
o DNA Structure: Double-helix structure, nucleotides, and base pairing.
o DNA Replication: The process by which DNA is copied before cell division.
o Mendelian Genetics: Inheritance patterns of traits based on Gregor Mendel's laws.
 Activities:
o Punnett Square Exercises: Solve problems using Punnett squares to predict offspring
traits.
o DNA Extraction: Extract DNA from fruits (e.g., strawberries) to demonstrate the process
of DNA isolation.
 Assessment:
o Genetics Problem-Solving Worksheet: Apply Mendelian genetics principles to solve
inheritance problems.

Notes:

 Use interactive simulations or online tools to help students visualize genetic crosses and
inheritance patterns.
 Discuss the significance of Mendel's work in modern genetics.

Week 7-8: Evolution and Ecology

 Objective: Analyze natural selection principles and the dynamics of ecological relationships.
 Topics:
 o Natural Selection: How traits beneficial for survival become more common in a
population.
o Ecological Relationships: Interactions such as predation, competition, mutualism, and
symbiosis.
 Activities:
o Case Studies on Evolution: Review examples of natural selection in various species (e.g.,
finches, peppered moths).
o Ecosystem Role-Play: Students assume roles of different species in an ecosystem and act
out interactions.
 Assessment:
o Short Essay: Write an essay discussing the ecological impact of a specific species or
interaction.

Notes:

 Use videos or animations to demonstrate evolution and ecological interactions.

 Encourage students to research and present case studies on evolutionary adaptations.

Week 9-10: Human Biology

 Objective: Describe the structure and function of human organ systems and discuss common
health issues.
 Topics:
o Human Organ Systems: Overview of the major systems (e.g., circulatory, respiratory,
digestive, nervous).
o Health and Diseases: Discussion on common diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease,
infections) and their impact on human health.
 Activities:
o Diagram Labeling: Label the major human organ systems and their components.
o Health Statistics Analysis: Analyze data on global health trends and discuss health
issues.
 Assessment:
o Oral Presentation: Present on a common disease, discussing its symptoms, causes,
treatments, and prevention.

Notes:

 Use interactive models or virtual dissections to explore human organ systems.

 Discuss lifestyle factors and their role in disease prevention.

Week 11-16: Advanced Topics & Review

 Objective: Investigate biotechnological applications and environmental biology issues.

 Topics:
 o Biotechnology: Techniques such as genetic engineering, cloning, and CRISPR.
o Environmental Biology: Issues such as pollution, climate change, and conservation.
 Activities:
o Debate on Genetic Engineering: Discuss the ethical implications of genetic modification
and biotechnology.
 Assessment:
o Final Project: Complete a research project on a biotechnological application or
environmental issue.
o Final Exam: A comprehensive exam covering all course topics.

Notes:

 Provide current examples of biotechnological advancements and their real-world applications.

 Discuss the environmental challenges facing our planet and the role of biology in finding
solutions.

This revised lesson plan incorporates a structured approach to understanding key biological
concepts, with diverse activities designed to engage students and deepen their knowledge. The
added notes guide the teacher in emphasizing core topics while encouraging critical thinking and
practical application of biology in real-world contexts.