1. Genetics and Ecosystems yr 9Scx Science ideas I need to know
Pre-test 1
Science ideas I need to know
Success Criteria
Start of Unit
End of Unit
I know this
I know some of this
I need to learn this
I know this
1a. Label a typical cell with nucleus and chromosomes and show that genes are carried on chromosomes made of DNA
1b. Draw a labelled nucleotide
1c. Construct a model of DNA showing the 4 bases, phosphate and sugar molecules
1d. Explain that genes are ‘coded instructions’ for making proteins and that DNA is the chemical which stores the coded instructions
1e. Define Alleles as versions of genes
1f. Define the terms dominant, recessive, phenotype, genotype, homozygous and heterozygous
2b. Use a Punnet square to predict offspring genotype and phenotypes
2c. Calculate and predict the results of a simple cross involving 1:1 or 3:1 ratios
2d. Discuss how sex /gender is determined in humans
3a. Distinguish between inherited variation (traits) and variation caused by the environment
3b. Classify variation as either continuous or discontinuous variation.
4a. Understand the main sources of variation
4b. identify the key differences between sexual and asexual reproduction

2. Genetics and Ecosystems yr 9Scx Science ideas I need to know
Pre-test 2
Science ideas I need to know
Success Criteria
Start of Unit
End of Unit
I know this
I know some of this
I need to learn this
I know this
4c. Understand the main stages of Sexual Reproduction
4d. Calculate the chromosome number in various organisms as well as their gametes
4e. Model/draw the basic steps of cell division (mitosis) for growth and repair
4f. Model/draw the basic steps of gamete production (meiosis) for sexual reproduction
4g. Examine how Mutation introduces new alleles
5a. List the key points about Charles Darwin and his “origin of species” book
5b. Describe the main features of natural selection
6a. Construct a diagram to show the relationship between an ecosystem, environment, community, population, species, habitat and niche
6b. Define the terms and roles of producers, consumers, herbivores, omnivores, carnivores, and decomposers
6c. Construct a food chain and food web
6d. Describe what the arrows a food web show, in terms of energy
7a. Give examples of adaptations that are structural, behavioural or physiological / functional
7b. Complete a case study for a New Zealand Plant or Animal on its Habitat, Niche and Adaptations
8a. Identify and describe unique features about kowhai / tui, kauri, kiwi, kakapo, tuatara
8b. List the main threats to our native plants and animals