KS3 & KS4 science curriculum

This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Variation and natural selection at the genetic level, where they explored how genetic variation drives evolution and creates differences within species. It deepens their understanding by examining modern biological classification, focusing on how evolutionary relationships and genetic traits are used to categorise organisms. As the final unit in the big question, Why are there similarities and differences between living things?, it reinforces pupils’ understanding of how genetics and evolution shape the diversity of life.

1. Classifying organisms as eukaryotic or prokaryotic
2. Electron microscopy, and the size and scale of cells: including standard form
3. Classification into kingdoms and domains: sub-cellular evidence
4. Classification and reclassification: genetic evidence

• Organisms can be classified into groups based on similarities and differences in their observable characteristics at the macroscopic level.
• Scientists classify every organism into a group, including a species and a genus.
• Organisms can be classified into groups within larger groups, from species up to kingdom.
• The common structures of animal and plant cells.
• Organisms can be classified into groups based on their characteristics at the microscopic, cellular level.