Themes of Biology These seven themes are found
Themes of Biology
• These seven themes are found throughout biology • They both unify and explain biology as a SCIENCE. • We will be discussing these themes in more detail throughout the year.
Cellular Structure and Function • • In all living things Highly organized Smallest unit of life Basic structure the same • Complexity differs • Unicellular and multicellular
An amoeba in the process of engulfing a diatom Several Bacterial Cells Human Nerve Cell
Reproduction • All living things reproduce • Sexual (exchange of DNA, genetically different offspring) • Asexual (binary fission, budding, Human Ovum and Sperm genetically identical offspring.
Metabolism • Defn – Sum of all chemical reactions in an organism. • Many chemical reactions occur to obtain and use energy to support life (for growth, movement and processing information) • Energy path Plants Animals Decomposers
Homeostasis • All organisms must maintain a stable internal environment. • External changes can cause organisms to change their processes to maintain homeostasis.
Heredity • Passing of traits from parent to offspring through genes. • Genes contain DNA that have the instructions for building proteins. • Mutations are changes in DNA that are either harmful or beneficial.
Evolution • Central unifying theme of biology • Defn – Change in the inherited traits of a species over time. • Evolution explains the diversity of life on earth • Also, the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem.
Interdependence • Organisms in biological community have evolved to live and interact together • Complex web of interactions can be disrupted and biodiversity can be lost.
Themes Assignment • Here is your job… – You and your group members will pick your favorite animal. – You will relate the seven themes of biology to the life of that animal. – You will make a mobile with a picture of the animal and a description of the seven themes. – You will receive a handout with more information for this assignment.
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