Life Sciences

Overview

This subject used to be called Biology before the new curriculum was introduced in 2006. The aim of this department is to encourage students to become aware of life around us, the interactions which occur in the environment, problems facing bio-diversity and life on earth, the working of the human body and most importantly, the appreciation of life as well as nuturing a keen interest in the Science of Life.

The courses offered cover a wide spectrum of biological topics from studying Cells, Tissues, Biological Molecules to Basic Control and Processes in Basic Life Systems. A large portion of the learning programme is devoted to Environmental Studies in which basic Ecology, Human Influences on the Environment, Sustaining our Environment, Population Studies and Diseases are studied. A substantial part of the Grade 12 learning programme is devoted to the study of Evolution based on early theories, as well as an explanation of evolution in terms of current knowledge.

In the Junior Grades (Grade 8 & 9) Natural Science is taught. The Life Sciences take charge of the Biology component in this Learning Area. The primary aim is to prepare students adequately for Life Sciences in the senior Grades, as well as instilling some awareness of the Human Body and our Environment, for those who choose not to continue with Life Sciences in Grade 10.

Being a practical subject a portion of the course is taught through experimental work. This aims to develop an understanding of scientific method which brings with it opportunity to take readings in the field and to transfer this data onto tables, graphs etc for interpretation and drawing of conclusions. To complement the practical component two excursions are undertaken each year. The Grade 8\’s explore geographical and biological situations in The Settlers’ Park Reserve whilst the Grade 10\’s undertake a trip to the Rocky Shore.

What is the Purpose of Life Sciences?

The study of Life Sciences enables learners to develop an understanding of the nature of science, the influence of ethics and biases, and the interrelationship of science, technology, indigenous knowledge, environment and society. Learners explore these concepts, which are essential to basic life processes and the interrelationship and inter-dependence of components of the living and physical world. This understanding is directed to improve the quality of life and life support systems in the biosphere. It also allows students to apply knowledge and skills in a way that will lead to sustainable management of resources and life-support systems.

Homework

Homework is left to the discretion of individual teachers in the department to supplement their teaching methods in the classroom.

Educational Resources

Suggested References:
Branch, M & G. 1981. The Living Shores of Southern Africa. Cape Town: Struik Publishers.
Dempster, ER. 2006. Crossing Over: The Basics of Evolution. Cape Town:HSRC. (Also available on the HSRC website)
Knobel, J. 1999. The Magnificent Natural Heritage of South Africa. Cape Town: Sunbird Publishing.
Lovegrove, B. 1993. The Living Deserts of Southern Africa. Cape Town: Fernwood Press.
Macrae, C. 1999. Life Etched in Stone: Fossils of South Africa. Johannesburg: Geological Society of South Africa.
McCarthy, T & Rubidge, B. 2005. The Story of Earth and Life: Cape Town: Struik Publishers.
van Wyk, B-E & Gericke, N. 2000. People’s Plants: A Guide to Useful Plants of Southern Africa. Pretoria. Briza Publications.
Skinner & Chimimba. 2006. The Mammals of the Southern African Subregion.
Roberts Book of Birds.
Relevant Websites
National Geographic
Poodwaddle
Climate Change

Grade 8 and 9 Natural Sciences

Grade 10 Information

Grade 11 Information

Grade 12 Information