Grade 7, 8, 9, 10, 11H, 11S, 12SE Teacher: Aya Shamaa

Biology Project Guide

Grade 7
Respiratory System
This project is based on what we studied about the respiratory system. You should focus on:
- The structure and function of the respiratory system
- Common respiratory disorders
- The effects of smoking, vaping, and other harmful habits on lung health
Topics of the Project
Your project should cover Respiratory Disorders or The Dangers of Smoking, Vaping, and Shisha/IQOS
. Choose one of the following topics to discuss. Below are some examples:
1- Respiratory Disorders:
- Asthma
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
- Pneumonia

2- The Dangers of Smoking, Vaping, and Shisha/IQOS:

- Explain how these habits affect the respiratory system.
- Identify which one is the most dangerous and why.
Project Guidelines and Tips
Based on the chosen topic, the Student Should:
- Talk about each respiratory disorder
- Define the disease.
- Explain its causes.
- Describe the symptoms.
- Mention how to prevent it.
- Discuss the effects of smoking, vaping, and shisha/IQOS
- Compare their harmful effects.
- Identify which one is the most dangerous.
- Provide scientific evidence (e.g., statistics, research findings).
Simple Activity
Include a Simple Activity (Choose one or more of the following activities to make your project more
interactive or choose any activity you might find suitable for your topic)

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 - Breathing Exercise: Take a deep breath and count how long you can hold it. Compare this to a friend’s
results.
- Straw Breathing Test: Breathe in and out through a small straw to experience how someone with a lung
disease (like asthma) might feel.
- Balloon Test: Blow up a balloon and observe how it inflates, showing how our lungs expand when we
breathe.
- Cotton Lung Comparison: Take two cotton balls, leave one clean and rub the other with a pencil or
charcoal to show the effect of smoking on the lungs.
Simple Model of the Respiratory System
Examples:
- Lung Model with Balloons: Use a plastic bottle and balloons to show how the lungs expand and
contract.
- Paper Respiratory System: Draw and cut out the parts of the respiratory system, then label them.
- Healthy vs. Smoker’s Lung Drawing: Draw two sets of lungs—one healthy and one blackened to show
the effects of smoking.
Clear visuals
- Include labeled diagrams of the respiratory system.
- Add images that show lung damage caused by smoking.
Real-life examples
- Share a case study or news article about someone affected by smoking-related diseases.
Organized project
- Use headings and subheadings for clarity.
- Keep information concise and to the point.
- Make sure to cite sources if you use external information.

Grade 8
The Immune System
This project is based on what we studied about the immune system. You should focus on:
- The structure and function of the immune system
- How the body defends itself against diseases
- Factors that strengthen or weaken the immune system
Topics of the Project
Your project should cover the following topics:
- Blood Tests and What They Reveal
- Mention common tests like white blood cell count, antibody tests..
- Vaccines and How They Protect Us
- Describe how vaccines work to boost immunity.
- Provide examples of important vaccines (e.g., flu, COVID-19, tetanus).

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 - Autoimmune Diseases (When the Immune System Attacks the Body)

- Explain autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 Diabetes, Lupus, or Rheumatoid Arthritis.

- Describe how these conditions affect daily life.

1- The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle in Strengthening Immunity

Discuss how proper nutrition, sleep, exercise, and hygiene keep the immune system strong.
2- Allergies and How the Immune System Overreacts
- Explain what allergies are and how the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances (like
pollen, dust, or peanuts) as threats.
- Discuss common allergies and their symptoms.

3- Organ Transplants and Immune System Rejection

Explain why organ transplants sometimes fail and how doctors use medications to suppress immune
responses.
4- The Impact of Stress on the Immune System
- Discuss how chronic stress weakens immunity and increases the risk of getting sick.
- Provide simple relaxation techniques to help reduce stress.

5- Proper Use of Antibiotics

- Explain how antibiotics help fight bacterial infections and support the immune system.
- Emphasize the importance of taking antibiotics exactly as prescribed—completing the full course even if
you feel better—to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Clarify that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and discuss why unnecessary use can
harm the body’s natural defenses.
Project Guidelines and Tips
The Student Should:
- Explain Each Topic Clearly
- Define key terms and provide real-life examples using simple, engaging language.
- Include a Simple Activity.
Simple Activity
Include a Simple Activity (Choose one or more of the following activities to make your project more interactive
or choose any activity you might find suitable for your topic)
- Handwashing Test: Apply glitter or flour to your hands and try washing it off with and without soap to
show how germs stick to the skin.
- Lemon Juice Immunity Test: Cut an apple in half—leave one half plain and coat the other with lemon
juice. Observe how the lemon (like the immune system) protects the apple from browning.
- Simple Blood Test: using antibodies

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 - Antibiotics Reminder Activity: Create a poster or chart that explains the correct way to take antibiotics,
highlighting the importance of completing the course and not using them for viral infections.
Simple Model of the Immune System
- Shield and Sword Model: Craft a shield (representing antibodies) and a sword (representing white blood
cells) using paper or cardboard to symbolize how the immune system fights diseases.
- 3D Blood Model: Use colored clay or beads to create red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
inside a clear container.
- Antibody vs. Antigen Matching Game: Draw different antibodies and antigens on paper cards and match
them like a puzzle to show how they interact.

Grade 9
Digestive System & Circulatory System

This project focuses on the digestive system and circulatory system. You should explore:
- The function of each system and its importance.
- Common disorders affecting these systems.
- How to maintain a healthy digestive and circulatory system.
Topics of the Project
Stomach Ulcers
- Explain what stomach ulcers are and how they form.
- Discuss causes like H. pylori bacteria, stress, and unhealthy eating habits.
- Explain ways to prevent ulcers, such as healthy eating and avoiding excessive caffeine and spicy foods.

Inflammation of the Intestines

- Explain what causes intestinal inflammation (Crohn’s disease, colitis, or infections).
- Discuss symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
- Provide tips on managing intestinal health through fiber-rich diets, probiotics, and hydration.

Atherosclerosis
- Describe how fatty deposits build up in arteries, making them narrow and increasing the risk of heart
disease.
- Explain risk factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and high cholesterol.
- Provide prevention tips like eating less fried food, exercising, and avoiding smoking.

Damaged Myocardium
- Explain how heart muscles can weaken due to heart attacks, high blood pressure, or infections.
- Discuss how this affects blood circulation and oxygen supply.
- Provide lifestyle changes that support heart health, such as reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet,
and getting regular check-ups.

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 Artificial Pacemaker
- Explain how pacemakers help people with irregular heartbeats.
- Describe how they send electrical signals to keep the heart beating at a normal rate.
- Discuss the importance of medical advancements in saving lives.

Project Guidelines and Tips

The Student Should:

1- Explain Each Topic Clearly

- Define key terms and use simple language.
- Provide real-life examples and prevention tips.
2- Include a Simple Activity
(Choose one or more of the following activities to make your project more interactive or choose any
activity you might find suitable for your topic)
- Acid Test for Ulcers: Pour vinegar (acid) on a chalk piece to observe how acids affect the stomach
lining.
- Clogged Artery Model: Use a straw and slowly fill it with clay or wax to show how plaque buildup
restricts blood flow.
- Heartbeat Simulation: Use a small balloon filled with water to show how the heart pumps blood when
squeezed.
- Healthy vs. Unhealthy Meal Plan: Create a poster showing foods that promote digestive and heart health
vs. those that harm them.
3- Create a Simple Model
- Digestive System Model: Use colored clay or drawings to illustrate the stomach, intestines, and how
food moves through them.
- Artery vs. Blocked Artery: Use two pipes—one clear and one partially blocked with cotton—to show
how atherosclerosis affects blood flow.
- Heart Model

Grade 10

The Nervous System

This project is based on our study of the nervous system. You should explore:

- The structure and function of the nervous system.

- How the brain and nerves control the body.
- Common nervous system disorders and how they affect people.
Topics of the Project

1- Alzheimer’s Disease
- A brain disorder that causes memory loss and difficulty thinking.
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 - Causes: Build-up of harmful proteins in the brain, aging, and genetic factors.
- Prevention: Healthy diet, mental exercises, and regular physical activity.
- Affected Region (responsible for memory and thinking).
2- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- A disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer of nerves, leading to muscle
weakness and vision problems.
- Causes: Immune system dysfunction, genetics, and environmental factors.
- Prevention: No known cure, but exercise and a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms.
- Affected Region: Myelin sheath of neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
3- Parkinson’s Disease
- A condition that causes tremors, slow movement, and balance problems.
- Causes: Loss of dopamine-producing brain cells.
- Prevention: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding toxins.
- Affected Region: Basal ganglia and substantia nigra (control movement).
4- Epilepsy
- A disorder where brain activity becomes abnormal, leading to seizures.
- Causes: Brain injury, infections, or genetic factors.
- Prevention: Avoiding head injuries and infections.
- Affected Region: Cerebral cortex (especially the temporal lobe).
5- Stroke
- Occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, causing brain damage.
- Causes: High blood pressure, smoking, and unhealthy diet.
- Prevention: Eating healthily, exercising, and avoiding smoking.
- Affected Region: Varies but often affects the motor cortex and speech centers.
6- Meningitis
- Inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, is often caused by infection.
- Causes: Bacterial or viral infection.
- Prevention: Vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
- Affected Region: The meninges (brain and spinal cord coverings).
7- Bell’s Palsy
- A temporary paralysis of one side of the face due to nerve damage.
- Causes: Viral infections, cold exposure, or immune system problems.
- Prevention: Protecting the face from cold air and managing stress.
- Affected Region: Facial nerve (cranial nerve VII).
Project Guidelines and Tips

The Student Should:

1- Explain Each Topic Clearly

- Define key terms in simple language.
- Include real-life examples and prevention tips.
2- Include a Simple Activity
(Choose one or more of the following activities to make your project more interactive or choose any activity
you might find suitable for your topic)

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 - Memory Test for Alzheimer’s: Ask someone to remember a list of words, then check recall after 5
minutes to simulate memory loss.
- Hand Tremor Simulation for Parkinson’s: Try writing or drawing while shaking your hand to feel
the effects of tremors.
- Reaction Time Test for Stroke: Drop a ruler and measure how fast someone reacts, showing how
strokes slow responses.
- Blindfold Test for MS: Walk in a straight line with one leg slightly weak (to simulate nerve damage
and balance problems).
- Brain Blood Flow Model for Stroke: Use a sponge with red-dyed water to show how blood stops
reaching parts of the brain.
3- Create a Simple Model (Choose one of these ideas)
- Brain Model with Affected Regions: Use clay to highlight areas damaged by different disorders.
- Neuron Model: Show how multiple sclerosis damages the myelin sheath by wrapping and unwrapping a
wire with tape.
- Facial Nerve Model for Bell’s Palsy: Draw a face and show how nerve damage affects one side.
- Meninges Model for Meningitis: Use layers of tissue or plastic wrap to show how meninges protect the
brain.

Grade 11

The Female Reproductive System

This project focuses on the female reproductive system, its structure, function, and related diseases. Students
should explore:

- The basic structure and function of the female reproductive organs.

- Common disorders affecting the reproductive system.
Topics of the Project

1- Uterine Cancer (Cervical Cancer)

- What it is: Cancer that starts in the cervix (the lower part of the uterus).
- Symptoms: Unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during sex.
- Causes: Infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
- Prevention: Regular Pap smears (screening), HPV vaccine.
2- Menopause
- What it is: The natural end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, usually happening between ages 45-55.
- Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep problems, vaginal dryness.
- Causes: Decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels.
- Prevention: Healthy diet, exercise, and sometimes hormone therapy.
3- Endometriosis
- What it is: When tissue like the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus.
- Symptoms: Painful periods, pain during intercourse, infertility.
- Causes: Unknown, but hormonal and genetic factors may play a role.
- Prevention: There is no sure way to prevent it, but early diagnosis can help manage symptoms.
4- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

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 - What it is: A hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries.
- Symptoms: Irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, weight gain.
- Causes: Hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance.
- Prevention: Healthy lifestyle, weight management, and sometimes medication.
Project Guidelines and Tips

The Student Should:

1- Explain Each Disease Clearly

Describe what the disease is, its symptoms, causes, and how it can be prevented or treated.

2- Include a Simple Activity

(Choose one or more of the following activities to make your project more interactive or choose any activity
you might find suitable for your topic)
- Model of the Female Reproductive System: Use clay to create a simple model of the female
reproductive organs, labeling each part (ovaries, uterus, cervix, etc.).
- Menopause Simulation: Create a role-play or drawing to show what it feels like to go through
menopause.
- Poster on Cervical Cancer: Make a simple poster showing the importance of HPV vaccination and
regular screenings.
3- Create a Simple Model
- Uterus Model: Use materials like clay or foam to build a simple model of the uterus and explain its role.
- PCOS Model: Show how cysts form on the ovaries in PCOS using small beads to represent cysts.

Grade 11

Mutations and Transgenesis

Topics for Discussion:

1- Chromosomal Mutations
- Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Turner Syndrome
- Klinefelter Syndrome
- Cri-du-chat Syndrome
2- Nucleotide Mutations
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Albinism
- Hemophilia

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3- Transgenesis
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- Bt cotton
- Genetically engineered insulin
- Transgenic animals (like glowing fish)
- Gene therapy
Tips for the Project:

1- You should talk about each mutation:

- Chromosomal mutations occur when there are changes in the number or structure of chromosomes. For
example, Down Syndrome occurs due to an extra chromosome 21 (trisomy), and Turner Syndrome
occurs due to a missing X chromosome in females.
- Nucleotide mutations are changing at the DNA level where a single nucleotide or small group of
nucleotides are altered. For example, Sickle Cell Anemia is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin
gene where adenine is replaced by thymine, changing the structure of hemoglobin.
2- You should explain the causes:
- For Down Syndrome, the cause is an extra chromosome 21, while Sickle Cell Anemia is caused by a
point mutation in the hemoglobin gene, changing the structure of red blood cells.
3- You should discuss the effects of the mutation:
- Down Syndrome leads to intellectual disability and physical traits like slanted eyes and a flat face.
Sickle Cell Anemia causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, leading to blood flow issues and
organ damage.
4- You should explain how to prevent or manage these mutations:
- Some mutations, like Sickle Cell Anemia, can be managed with blood transfusions or bone marrow
transplants. Others, like Turner Syndrome, require hormone treatments to aid development.
5- For Transgenesis, you should discuss:
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are created by inserting genes from other species to enhance
desired traits, such as pest resistance in Bt cotton.
- Genetically engineered insulin is produced using bacteria modified with human genes to treat diabetes.
- Transgenic animals, like glowing fish, are organisms that have been modified to express certain traits,
such as bioluminescence.
- Gene therapy is a medical technique that involves altering a person’s DNA to treat or prevent diseases.
Activities:

- You can create models to represent mutations:

- For Chromosomal mutations: Create a model of a chromosome showing the extra chromosome in Down
Syndrome or a missing chromosome in Cri-du-chat Syndrome.
- For Nucleotide mutations: Show how a change in a single nucleotide in Sickle Cell Anemia affects the
shape of hemoglobin.
- You can present the mutations using posters or slides:
- Create diagrams of the DNA strands, showing how the mutation in Cystic Fibrosis (deletion of three
nucleotides) affects the protein.
- For Transgenesis, create a flowchart to show how GMOs are developed or how genetically engineered
insulin is produced.

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 Relating Mutations and Transgenesis to Daily Life:

- Mutations are natural occurrences that can lead to variations in organisms, causing diseases like Sickle
Cell Anemia or Down Syndrome. Some mutations can also have no harmful effects, like Albinism.
- Transgenesis is used in biotechnology to improve crops, produce medicines, and even create animals
with new traits. Genetically engineered insulin has transformed the treatment of diabetes, while GMOs
help increase agricultural efficiency.
- Understanding mutations and transgenesis gives us the tools to treat genetic disorders and improve
products in various industries.

Grade 12 SE

Nutrition Project

Topics for Discussion:

1- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Causes, effects, and prevention
- Risk factors: High cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet.
2- Obesity
- Measuring BMI (Body Mass Index)
- Causes and health risks of obesity
- Prevention and management strategies
- Energy Expenditure and Calorie Consumption
- Caloric needs based on age, weight, and activity level
- Importance of balancing calorie intake and expenditure for a healthy lifestyle
3- Malnutrition
- Causes, effects, and types (under-nutrition and over-nutrition)
- Impact on overall health
4- Kwashiorkor
- A type of malnutrition caused by a severe lack of protein in the diet
- Symptoms and effects on the body
- Prevention and treatment strategies
Tips for the Project:

1- You should talk about:

- Cardiovascular diseases include heart diseases and stroke, often caused by poor diet (high in fats and
sugars), lack of exercise, and smoking. You should explain how diseases like atherosclerosis (plaque
build-up in arteries) can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
- Discuss risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure and the importance of a balanced
diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking to prevent these diseases.
2- You should measure obesity using BMI:
- BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple tool to assess if a person’s weight is in a healthy range based on
their height and weight.
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 - You can explain how BMI is calculated and discuss the health risks associated with obesity, including
diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
- You should explain energy expenditure and calorie consumption:
3- Energy expenditure refers to how many calories the body uses at rest and during activity.
- You can explain how age, weight, and activity level affect a person’s calorie needs and the importance
of consuming the right number of calories to maintain a healthy weight.
- For example, a sedentary teenager will have different caloric needs than an active adult. Discuss how
age and growth can increase calorie needs.
4- You should discuss malnutrition:
- Malnutrition is a condition caused by not getting enough of the right nutrients, which can lead to serious
health problems.
- Explain the two types: under nutrition (not enough calories or nutrients) and over-nutrition (too many
calories, often leading to obesity).
- Discuss the effects of malnutrition on growth, immune function, and overall health.
5- You should explain Kwashiorkor:
- Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition caused by a lack of protein in the diet, despite adequate
calorie intake.
- Symptoms include edema (swelling), fatty liver, skin changes, and stunted growth.
- Prevention includes ensuring adequate protein intake, and treatment focuses on replenishing protein
levels in the body.
Activities:

You can create models or diagrams:

- Cardiovascular diseases: Create a diagram showing how atherosclerosis affects arteries or use a heart
model to explain how heart disease develops.
- Obesity: You can create a visual showing how excess fat accumulates in the body or demonstrate how to
calculate BMI.
- Malnutrition: You can create a chart comparing the effects of under-nutrition and over-nutrition or
design a healthy plate showing how to balance nutrients.
Real-life examples:

- Show how different foods can impact energy expenditure and calorie consumption. For example,
comparing the calories in a sugary drink to a healthy salad or explaining how exercise increases calorie
burn.
Relating Nutrition to Daily Life:

- Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining a healthy body. Eating a balanced diet helps prevent
cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and malnutrition.
- Managing weight through calorie consumption and energy expenditure is essential for overall health.
- Understanding the effects of Kwashiorkor and other forms of malnutrition can help ensure we consume
enough of the right nutrients to stay healthy.

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