KS3 & KS4 science curriculum

This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Inheritance, genotype and phenotype, where they explored how genetic traits are passed down and expressed in organisms. It deepens their understanding by examining cell division through mitosis and meiosis, focusing on how these processes contribute to growth, reproduction, and genetic variation. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Stem cells and differentiation, where they will apply their knowledge to understand how cells develop into specialised types, further reinforcing concepts of cellular development and genetic expression.

1. Growth in multicellular organisms
2. The cell cycle and cell division: mitosis
3. The structure of DNA: including nucleotides
4. Errors in cell division and cancer: beyond the basics
5. Making gametes: meiosis

• [Y5] Growth and reproduction are part of the life cycle of all living organisms.
• All organisms are made up of one or more cells.
• Chromosomes stored in cells provide instructions for growth and other life processes.
• Humans and plants can reproduce sexually to have offspring that inherit some, but not all, of the characteristics of the parents.
• During sexual reproduction, male and female gametes fuse in process called fertilisation.