BIOLOGY

The Biology Curriculum is uniquely designed to cover both breadth and depth of the subject. Modules
adopt a spiral and thematic approach. For example, Foundations in Ecology and Microbiology, Diversity
of Life in the Micro-Kingdoms, Evolutionary Biology, and Diversity of Invertebrates and Vertebrates
contribute towards the learning of Ecology, Diversity and Evolutionary Biology. Basic Cell Biology,
Advanced Cell Biology I and II, Introductory and Advanced Biochemistry, and Basic and Advanced
Molecular Genetics contribute towards the learning and applications in Cell Biology and Biochemistry, as
well as Classical and Molecular Genetics.
The first and second years are Foundation Years which aim to provide students with a solid foundation in
Biology. They develop observation and inquiry skills. They will also pick up good habits of the mind, and
effective scientific skills through experiential and hands-on learning.
The third and fourth years are Advancement Years which allow students to read modules that take them
beyond the basics. They investigate biological phenomena and engage in more in-depth investigations.
There is more exposure to critical thinking and analytical skills in the more demanding modules.
The fifth and sixth years are Specialization Years whereby students who are deeply interested in pursuing
Biology-related disciplines in universities, will continue to read offered modules that adopt a more
applicative and in-depth approach. These modules allow more knowledge application in broader and
concept-orientated perspectives. Students will also become more independent in their learning
approaches.
The Department offers both Major in Biology and Major with Honours in Biology. To qualify for reading a
Major with Honours in Biology, students have to achieve consistently good results in Core modules.
Students normally sit for AP Biology in their Year 6.
The Department follows the general school policies on curriculum and assessment. For more details,
please refer to the school curriculum framework.
The Department does not practice exemption and acceleration of modules. Students who may have
advanced knowledge in certain topics in Biology will still be expected to go through the modules to attain
hands-on experience in the laboratory and in the field, which unlike theoretical knowledge, cannot be
acquired from textbooks.

Table of CORE modules offered in 2013

Year
1

5
Major
Modules

6
Major
Module
6
Honours
Modules

Module
Code

Module Title

BL1106

Basic Cell Biology

Pre-requisites

MC

None

None

None

BL2104

Foundations in Ecology and

Microbiology
Diversity of Life in the MicroKingdoms

BL2105

Basic Animal Physiology I

None

BL3105

General Botany

None

BL3106

Basic Animal Physiology II

None

BL4105

Evolutionary Biology

None

BL4106

Diversity of Invertebrates and

Vertebrates

BL4107

Advanced Cell Biology I

BL4108

Advanced Cell Biology II

BL5102

Advanced Animal Physiology

BL5103

Ecology and the Environment

BL5104

Introductory Biochemistry

BL5106

Basic Molecular Genetics

BL6101

Advanced Topics in General

Biology

BL6403

Advanced Molecular Genetics

BL1107

BL6404

Advanced Biochemistry

BL1102 / BL2104 (Where

Applicable)
BL1101 / BL1106 (Where
Applicable)
BL1101 / BL1106 (Where
Applicable) and BL4107
BL3101 / BL3106 (Where
Applicable)
BL1104 / BL1107 / BL2102
(Where Applicable)
BL1101 / BL1106 (Where
Applicable), BL4101 / BL4107
(Where Applicable) and BL4108
BL1101 / BL1106 (Where
Applicable) and BL4101 /
BL4107 (Where Applicable)

2
2
2
2
2
2

All Year 3 5 Core Modules

BL5106

BL4101 / BL4107 (Where

Applicable) and BL4108
BL5104

Module Descriptors of CORE modules offered in 2013

Module
Code
BL1106

Module Descriptors
Basic Cell Biology
This module will teach students how to use microscopes competently to aid in the study of
cells. They will understand that cells are the basic units of life and through differentiation,
cells are organized into tissues, organs and systems. Students will also be introduced to the
great diversity of cells and the concept that cell specialization is determined by genetics and
environmental factors. Basic knowledge of the functions of the organelles that are found
inside cells and cellular processes will be taught. Lectures will be supplemented by
laboratory practicals where students learn to identify cells and prepare slides of cells on
their own. In addition, basic biochemical understanding of biomolecules such as
carbohydrates, proteins and lipids will be taught, and supplemented by practicals which test
for these. Presentation skills will be built up through exploration of stem cell research.

BL1107

Foundations In Ecology and Microbiology

In the first half of this module, students will learn the laws of thermodynamics and apply
them to the various processes of energy transfer between trophic levels in food webs as
well as in photosynthesis. They will learn that energy transfer is never 100% efficient. The
concepts of populations, communities and ecosystems will be introduced. Biogeochemical
and nutrient cycles will also be taught. They will learn about the various types of energy
sources available today and taught to make informed choices. The Ecology component will
be supplemented with experiential learning through a field trip and assignments that will
aid in studying interdependent relationships among organisms and their environment in a
selected ecosystem. This will also provide a means for students to appreciate the
importance of protecting the environment.
A stronger emphasis through experimental approaches will be introduced to students who
will be aware of both the adverse effects and benefits of bacteria and fungi in our daily lives
in the second part of the module. Students will explore the role of microorganisms such as
bacteria and fungi in food industries, medicine, agriculture and sewage treatment,
supplemented with investigative practical sessions. Students will learn important
microbiological techniques, effects of antiseptic agents on bacteria and even make a food
product from microbes. By the end of the module, students will acquire basic ecological
assessment skills, microbiological techniques and important laboratory skills which will be
applied in higher years modules.

BL2104

Diversity of Life in the Micro-Kingdoms

This module is a prequel to a Level 4000 module, Diversity of Invertebrates and
Vertebrates. Here, the students will learn about the need for a hierarchical classification of
living organisms, with basic understanding of taxonomy. They will also learn why viruses are
not part of the five Kingdoms. Major characteristics of each Kingdom, Phylum and Class will
be highlighted. This module focuses on three microscopic Kingdoms, namely Bacteria,
Protista and Fungi while the other two Kingdoms will be briefly touched upon. Examples
commonly encountered during daily life will be highlighted in class. Lab practicals will help
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students reinforce the knowledge acquired after each lesson.

BL2105

Basic Animal Physiology I

Physiology is a study of how organ systems are regulated and integrated for proper
functioning of the organism. The human body will be used as a model organism for
students to learn about mammalian anatomy and physiology. This module will first expose
students to the key concepts of structural adaptation for function and homeostasis.
Mechanisms of homeostasis will be introduced and illustrated using the regulation of body
temperature, which provides a relevant and meaningful context that allows students to
understand homeostasis. Students will also learn about reproduction through the study of
the human reproductive system, gamete formation and fertilization. They will then further
explore the miracle of life by studying how the single-celled zygote develops into the multicellular foetus through the various stages of cleavage, implantation, gastrulation and
organogenesis. Laboratory practicals would include an investigation to study the various
mechanisms of thermoregulation of a mammal, and the dissection of laboratory mice to
study the mammalian reproductive system.

BL3105

General Botany
Students will learn about the different parts of plants and the roles they play. The
reproductive structures of plants (ferns and angiosperms) will be covered. Self-pollination
and cross-pollination as well as the adaptations flowers have for wind and insect pollination
will be taught. The roles of biotic factors such as soil, water and nutrients on plant growth
will be discussed. The roles of plant hormones in growth, senescence and fruit maturation
will also be introduced. Cellular processes and abiotic factors affecting various aspects of
plant transport will also be emphasized.
In addition, morphological characteristics of spore-bearing and seed-bearing plants will be
examined in detail. They should also able to discuss at length the characteristics that
contribute to the success of various plants today. Lab practicals will allow students to
examine specimens in detail. A field trip will also be planned for the students to observe
plant diversity and applied botany in everyday life.

BL3106

Basic Animal Physiology II

Physiology is a study of how organ systems are regulated and integrated for proper
functioning of the organism. The human body will be used as a model organism for
students to learn about mammalian anatomy and physiology. In this module, the key
concepts of structural adaptation for function and homeostasis will be explored in various
physiological contexts such as regulation of blood pressure, carbon dioxide level and blood
osmolarity. Students will learn about the processes of nutrition, circulation, gas exchange,
excretion and osmoregulation, and will learn to appreciate how the various body systems
are adapted to carry out these processes. Laboratory practicals allow students to explore
body processes like digestion of starch by the alimentary canal, regulation of blood pressure
when the body position changes, breathing during exercise. The practicals also include
dissections which allow students to explore the structures of the organ specimens, and to
appreciate how structure is adapted for functions.
4

BL4105

Evolutionary Biology
In this module, students will learn about the concept evolution which includes a section on
population genetics. Evolution is more a paradigm than just a concept in that it can be
applied to most aspects of biology such as molecular biology, physiology, behavior and
ecology. Broadly, this module covers how the idea of evolution by natural selection was
conceptualized, what factors influence evolutionary change, limitations to what evolution
can do, various modes of evolution and how it leads to speciation.

BL4106

Diversity of Invertebrates and Vertebrates

This module expands from BL1102 or BL2104 and BL3105. The module provides a brief
introduction to the science behind classification by learning about taxonomy and
phylogeny. They will also learn about the characteristics of different invertebrates and
vertebrates taxa. At the end of the course, students should be able to explain why each
organism is classified as such. They should also able to discuss at length the characteristics
that contribute to the success of animals today. Laboratory practicals will allow students to
examine specimens in detail. A field trip will also be planned for the students to observe live
animals.

BL4107

Advanced Cell Biology I

Students basic knowledge about cell biology (acquired in BL1101 / BL1106) will be
reinforced and enhanced. Besides cell theory and organelles, they will learn about the
differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells as well as plant and animal cells. They
will discover that cell membranes are fluid mosaics and the advantages of such a structure.
With such membranes, diffusion, osmosis, active transport, endocytosis and exocytosis are
possible for exchange of materials between cells and their environment. The role of mitosis
in asexual reproduction, growth and repair, and the role of meiosis in sexual reproduction
shall be highlighted. They will also be introduced to different components of cytoskeleton
(microtubules, microfilaments & intermediate filaments) and extracellular matrix. In
addition, the students will be learning about the structures of nucleic acids (DNA & RNA)
and the discovery of DNA. The process of DNA replication as well as how information stored
in DNA is used to synthesize proteins shall also be discussed.

BL4108

Advanced Cell Biology II

Following the study from BL4107, this module introduces students to an in-depth
understanding of Mendelian patterns of genetic inheritance and variations that could occur
due to multiple alleles, epistasis, gene linkages, and other genetic phenomena. They will
also discover how variations in genotype determine phenotypic differences and the
inheritance of genes through formation of germ cells. Moving forward from how genetics
predisposes individuals, students will be introduced to the concept of cellular
communication, an integral component for the development of a healthy organism.
Students will continue to discover how deregulated cell division, cell death (apoptosis and
necrosis) and uncontrolled proliferation of cells lead to the formation of cancer. Finally,
students will also learn about the functions of adult and embryonic stem cells, and have the
experience of how to carry out basic tissue culture.
5

BL5102

Advanced Animal Physiology

This module focuses on the functional aspects of Physiology at the cellular and molecular
levels. Building up from the key concept of homeostasis learnt in the modules Basic Animal
Physiology, students will explore the co-ordination within homeostatic pathways through
signaling processes. Study of the nervous system, sensory system, skeletal-muscular system
and endocrine system allow students to understand how stimuli are detected by our
sensory receptors, how electrical signals are generated and conducted by our neurons, and
how responses are carried out by our muscles and glands. The practicals are fun mini
hands-on activities infused into the theory lessons to reinforce concepts learnt, and to
make the learning of these concepts more personalized, relevant and meaningful for the
students.

BL5103

Ecology and the Environment

This module will be built on the knowledge from BL1104/BL1107 and BL2102. Students are
introduced to population and community ecology. Advanced ecological concepts such as
prey and predator relationships, other symbiotic relationships, competition and succession
will be covered. Characteristics of various aquatic and terrestrial biomes will also be
explored. Anthropogenic effects and mitigation strategies on the environment will be
discussed. Students will learn how to contribute to protecting the environment as well as
conservation efforts taken to date around the world. Learning is supplemented by intensive
overseas and local field trips to explore and understand more about various aquatic and
terrestrial ecosystems.

BL5104

Introductory Biochemistry
This module will cover the basics of the chemical processes taking place in living
organisms. Students will be introduced to the energy flow in a cell, the coupling of
exergonic and endergonic reactions that forms the basis of all reactions, and ATP that
serves as the energy currency in cellular reactions. Intricacies of photosynthesis such as the
light-dependent and light-independent reactions will also be covered. Students will learn
how cells harvest energy through glycolysis, cellular respiration and fermentation.
Experiments will be conducted to reinforce the knowledge acquired.

BL5106

Basic Molecular Genetics

This module will be built on the knowledge acquired in Cell Biology. It focuses on the
genetic materials (DNA or RNA) which are the basis of inheritance and unseen forces behind
evolution as a result of natural selection. Students will be introduced to the history and
discovery of DNA as the genetic material, the central dogma of molecular genetics, the
genomic organization of DNA and RNA, as well as how gene expressions are controlled and
regulated at various cellular levels and processes. In addition, they will also learn about the
genetics of viruses and bacteria, mutations, and how genes are isolated, cloned and
sequenced for various biotechnological manipulations and applications. They will also get
hands-on experience in basic molecular biology techniques such as extraction and
restriction of plasmid DNA, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis and heat shock transformation
of bacterial cells.
6

BL6101

Advanced Topics in General Biology

This year long module includes a classical Biology approach in the first half. An overview
and deeper understanding in specific functions and adaptations in plants and animals,
specifically in the areas of responses will be touched on. In the animal system,
endocrinology and immunology will be explored. In the plant system, responses to
environmental cues from seed to flower will be emphasized. In addition, students will be
geared towards preparation for AP Biology through an intensive essay writing approach in
the broad based syllabus. In the second half of the module, bioethics will be emphasized.
The social, legal and ethical issues are raised with regards to the use and support of current
scientific technologies for research and treatments will be touched on. Some issues to
touch on include privacy, IVF, ESC, experiments on people, eugenics, human cloning, gene
therapy, GMOs and genetic testing in genomic revolution. This can take form of peerteaching presentations, journal research, and research writing approaches.

BL6403

Advanced Molecular Genetics

This module expands upon the foundations of basic molecular genetics. Students may look
into current developments in genetics and genomics related to translational research. They
may explore current practices in genetic medicines, gene identification, diagnostic and
therapeutic strategies. To supplement and enhance the independent learning process,
research based projects using model organisms may be used. The application of multiplex
PCR to determine polymorphisms and forensic profiling may also be explored.

BL6404

Advanced Biochemistry
This module is the integration between Biology and Chemistry. Students reading this
module must be firmly grounded in both disciplines. This module explores the four
structural levels of proteins. Protein structure is then related to functions. Students will also
learn how to extract and purify proteins using various methods. They will learn how to use
online databases as a powerful tool to determine protein identity and function. Research
writing proposals will also contribute to the authentic learning of students.

Table of ELECTIVE / ENRICHMENT modules offered in 2013

Years

Module
Code

Module Title

BL1301

Introductory Plant Tissue Culture

BL2302

Pre-requisites

MC

BL1107

Food Science

None

BL3306

Sports Science

None

BL3307

Basic Marine Biology

None

BL3305

Foundations In General Biology

None (This is a Bridging

Module)

BL4204

The Biology Olympian in You

BL3101/BL3106 (Where
Applicable), BL3105, BL4101 /
BL4107 (Where Applicable)
and BL4105

BL5201

Training in Biology Olympiad

Department Approval

BL4101 / BL4107 (Where

Applicable), BL4108 and
BL5106

BL6301

Developmental Biology

Module Descriptors of ELECTIVE / ENRICHMENT modules offered in 2012

Module Code

Module Descriptors

BL1301

Introductory Plant Tissue Culture

This module provides opportunities for pupils to culture a small piece of plant tissue
which could be taken from their natural environment, plant breeding or genetic
engineering materials, endangered plants or even virus-free plant species and
propagate them into many plantlets in an artificial controlled environment. Students
will learn the proper design and set-up of a tissue culture laboratory including the
essential laboratory equipment and apparatus. The theoretical approach and the
different hands-on techniques from the establishment of a plant tissue to its rooting
stage in laboratory conditions, followed by in an acclimatization condition and finally
to the natural planting environment will also be covered. For instance, students will
prepare formulated basic growth medium for the plant tissue, learn aseptic techniques
in the initiation of surface sterilized explants, design suitable sterilization protocol to
ensure explants are free from microbes, design media formulation that will enhance
the quality and speedy growth of the cultured plantlets and pot tissue cultured plants
in the natural planting environment. Interdisciplinary learning across the three
sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics are integrated into this module, and
students are also given the opportunities to learn simple research skills and problemsolving skills to stretch their creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial skills. Pupils
may apply the entrepreneurship skills in promoting the sale of the tissue cultured
plantlets. Apart from these, this enrichment module will inculcate interest in learning
concepts about different topics in Botany in addition to the tissue culture techniques.
To broaden their knowledge and further understanding the authentic applications of
plant tissue culture techniques, students will be involved in experiential learning
through a field trip to a commercial tissue culture laboratory or a research tissue
culture laboratory.

BL2302

Food Science
This is a new 2-MC enrichment module derived from the previous Introductory Food
Science module, BL2301. This module expands on the foundation knowledge that
students have acquired in BL1106, as biochemistry, nutrition and food science are
intimately related in various aspects. It will help students understand the scientific
8

principles underlying the production, processing, preparation and evaluation of food.

The concepts taught will be illustrated through a series of hands-on experiments
involving food preparation and food evaluation, which can enhance students
understanding and appreciation of the concepts learnt in an experiential manner. The
module will be assessed practically; this method of assessment will provide
opportunities for students to demonstrate creativity and apply what they have learnt
to novel real-life contexts.
BL3306

Sports Science
This is a new 2-MC enrichment combining the old enrichment modules of Sports
Nutrition & Sport Physiology. Students will learn about the rationales behind sports
training and how it affects sports performance through improved body physiology. A
general introduction provides an overview of the interrelationship between sports and
human physiology. The energy systems allow students to understand the origin or
source of energy that propel the muscular system of the body. The respiratory system
and circulatory system will cover both the anatomical structures and functions of the
various parts of the systems. The processes involved in respiration will be described
and references are made to distinguish respiration from breathing. Similarly, the
structures and functions of the heart and blood vessels will be discussed. The
processes involved in the pumping of the heart and mechanics involved in the working
of the various blood vessels will be illustrated. The muscular system gives a general
view of the working of the muscular fibres. The gross and microscopic view of the
muscles will be shown. The muscle action through sliding filament theory will also be
taught in the module. Practicals will supplement theories that are covered in class. The
module tries to draw relevance of human physiology to sports training in everyday life.
In addition, students will investigate the ways which diet influences athletic
performance and the mechanisms by which nutrients are used in the body. The
biochemical processes in which the nutrients participate during low and high intensity
level are also explored. The specific dietary requirements of athletes are examined and
the values of nutritional ergogenic aids are assessed. Different methods of designing
and assessing tailored eating plans for athletes are included to enhance their sporting
performance.

BL3307

Basic Marine Biology

This is a new 2-MC enrichment module derived from the previous Introductory Marine
Biology Module of BL3304. Marine Biology is the scientific study of organisms that
inhabit the sea. The study includes nearly all the sub-disciplines of Biology and other
cross-disciplinary subjects that are applicable for investigating marine organisms.
These may include Biochemistry, Microbiology, Taxonomy, Ecology, Evolution, Marine
Science and Environmental Science. In this introductory module, students will gain a
basic understanding of Marine Biology via their experiences from various
activities. The module curriculum will include classroom-based learning, field trips,
presentations and independent research assignments spanning across one semester.

BL3305

Foundations In General Biology

This is a bridging module offered to the yearly new intake of Year 3 students. Students
will be equipped with foundational knowledge from core content such as Ecology,
Basic Cell Biology, Diversity of Micro-Kingdoms and Basic Physiology through mass
lectures. In addition, a key emphasis in the second half of the module will be the
development and familiarization of hands-on biological skills that will equip students in
studying Biology in their senior high years. Lab skills will include microscopy,
microbiology and physiology techniques.

BL4204

The Biology Olympian in You

This course gives a glimpse of what Biology Olympiad is all about, by revisiting 5 major
areas of biology:- from global problems to ecology, evolution to biodiversity and
biosystematics, animal and plant anatomy to physiology, classical genetics to
molecular biology, and cell biology to biochemistry. This is a well-balanced module
integrating all aspects of biology in the first time, allowing students to have a holistic
perspective of the subject, and emphasizing on critical thinking and connecting major
biological concepts. The module curriculum includes class-room based learning and
discussion, hands-on laboratory skills including field work (and simulation), dissection
to physiology, molecular biology and biochemistry. This will eventually lead to the year
5 advanced module on Training in Biology Olympiad. Although this is not the prerequisite for the year 5 module, students may be more prepared if they are
considering taking part in the Biology Olympiad in the future.

BL5201

Training in Biology Olympiad

This module is designed for students who are selected due to their consistent excellent
performance in Biology modules. These students will be training for the Singapore
Biology Olympiad in this module. Students can expect rigorous training in a wide range
of Biology topics as well as answering techniques. A final selection of students will be
made in the course of this module and they will get to represent the school in the
Singapore Biology Olympiad.
This module is by invitation only.

BL6301

Developmental Biology
This course will show case and examine embryogenesis in animal, starting from
fertilization to birth in the case of animal development. Students will be exposed to
concepts, principles and mechanisms that underlie development in animals and plants.
Different organism models will be studied to demonstrate the rapid advances in this
field of life sciences. The module curriculum will include classroom-based learning, labbased experiments, presentations, and independent research assignments. Hands-on
experiments on various model organisms, including examination the development of C.
elegans, Drosophila, sea urchin, zebrafish, chicken and mouse, will be conducted to
complement learning.
10

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