What you learn
The study of biology involves learning about living organisms and life processes in all of its forms, from a molecular level, through cells and individual organisms to populations and whole communities of animals and plants.
There are 61 lessons in the HSC Study Lab Preliminary Biology course, which corresponds to the 120 indicative hours of study required by the syllabus.
Module 1 | A local ecosystem
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The distribution, diversity and numbers of plants and animals found in ecosystems are determined by biotic and abiotic factors
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Each local aquatic or terrestrial ecosystem is unique
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Module 2 | Patterns in nature
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Organisms are made of cells that have similar structural characteristics
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Membranes around cells provide separation from and links with the external environment
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Plants and animals have specialised structures to obtain nutrients from their environment
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Gaseous exchange and transport systems transfer chemicals through the internal and between the external environments of plants and animals
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Maintenance of organisms requires growth and repair
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Module 3 | Life on earth
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Analysis of the oldest sedimentary rocks provides evidence for the origin of life
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The fossil record provides information about the subsequent evolution of living things
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Further developments in our scientific knowledge allows for greater understanding of life's origins and evolution.
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The study of present-day organisms increases our understanding of past organisms and environments
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Module 4 | Evolution of Australian biota
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Evidence for the rearrangement of crustal plates and continental drift indicates that Australia was once part of an ancient super continent
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The changes in Australian flora and fauna over millions of years have happened through evolution
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Continuation of species has resulted, in part, from the reproductive adaptations that have evolved in Australian plants and animals
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A study of palaeontology and past environments increases our understanding of the possible future range of plants and animals
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