KS3 & KS4 science curriculum

This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Plant growth and development, where they explored how hormones regulate growth and reproduction in plants. It deepens their understanding by focusing on Gene technology, examining how genetic engineering is used to modify organisms for medical and agricultural purposes. As the final unit in the big question, How do living things grow and reproduce?, it reinforces pupils’ understanding of how genetic manipulation influences growth and reproduction, connecting natural processes to modern technological advances.

1. Genetic engineering
2. Genetic testing for healthcare
3. Genetic testing for family planning

• The genetic material of all organisms is made of DNA, wound up into structures called chromosomes.
• Sections of chromosomes are called genes, which store instructions for making proteins (including enzymes).
• There are usually two versions of each gene in a pair of chromosomes; the two versions of a gene are called alleles.
• Some alleles are associated with conditions that affect people’s health (e.g. cystic fibrosis).
• Consumers, including humans, are dependent upon crop plants to maintain our food security.
• Plants can be infected by communicable diseases.
• Earth’s climate is changing as a result of human actions.