Stem cells and differentiation
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Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Cell division: mitosis and meiosis, where they explored how cells divide and genetic variation occurs. It deepens their understanding by focusing on stem cells and differentiation, examining how unspecialised cells become specialised and their potential medical uses. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Hormones and human reproduction, where they will apply this knowledge to understand how hormones regulate reproductive processes and cell development.
Prior knowledge requirements
- All organisms are made up of one or more cells.
- Multicellular organisms grow by making new cells.
- New cells are made when existing cells divide by mitosis.
- Specialised cells in multicellular organisms (including humans and plants) have shapes, sizes and structures that are adapted for the jobs the cells do.
- 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).
- The proteins that are made are used to build other structures and control chemical reactions.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Cell division: mitosis and meiosis, where they explored how cells divide and genetic variation occurs. It deepens their understanding by focusing on stem cells and differentiation, examining how unspecialised cells become specialised and their potential medical uses. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Hormones and human reproduction, where they will apply this knowledge to understand how hormones regulate reproductive processes and cell development.
Prior knowledge requirements
- All organisms are made up of one or more cells.
- Multicellular organisms grow by making new cells.
- New cells are made when existing cells divide by mitosis.
- Specialised cells in multicellular organisms (including humans and plants) have shapes, sizes and structures that are adapted for the jobs the cells do.
- 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).
- The proteins that are made are used to build other structures and control chemical reactions.
Biology
Stem cells and differentiation
This unit explores the function of stem cells and the importance of cell differentiation. It discusses the benefits and risks of stem cell use in medicine, evaluates applications of science, and considers the personal, social, economic, and environmental implications of scientific decisions.
4 lessons in unit
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