Ecosystems
Resources for teaching VCE Biology Unit 1
GTAC developed the following resources to complement the key knowledge points and key science skills for Unit 1 in VCE Biology Study Design. Many of the resources feature in our Unit 1 & 2 overview Professional Learning events and advice for laboratory technicians is included where needed.
Sample timeline for teaching VCE Biology Unit 1
The GTAC team has created a sample timeline for teaching VCE Biology Unit 1 with reference to the 2022 - 2026 VCE Biology Study Design. The sample timeline covers all key knowledge points from the study design but orders them so that they can be explored within overarching narratives (as indicated). Opportunities to utilise GTAC resources are indicated and the are also available on this page. Click here to view the timeline.
An investigation of osmosis
An experiment that investigates the movement of water across a semi-permiable membrane. This experiment can be carried out at school or at home. Students can access the experiment via Students > Learning resources > An investigation of osmosis. Click here to view the experiment. This link can be shared with students also.
Cells online
A collection of specially prepared worksheets that explore cell structure and function and microscopy techniques. Click here to access the worksheets.
Modelling cell specialisations
A series of activities where students construct 2D and 3D model cells to explore the roles of organelles and the structure and functions of specialised cells. Each of these resources can be adapted to run in isolation. Click here to view these activities.
An investigation of movement of substances across membranes
A practical investigation in which students investigate the ability of four different solutes to diffuse across a semi-permeable membrane. This resource includes a laboratory preparation and marking guide. Click here for more information on this resource.
Exploring cell membranes
A series of activities in which students use particle models to make predictions, and formulate understandings and definitions of the processes of diffusion and osmosis. This resource includes a practical activity and short online course. Click here to view this module.
Mitosis in growing root tips
A procedure that stains chromosomes in the growing root tips of garlic in order for viewing under a light microscope. Click here to view the resources for this practical inlcuding advice for Lab Techs.
The Cell Cycle - Controlling cell division for human development and growth
An activity in which students manipulate a model of the cell cycle to simulate cell division. They then explore embryonic development and the effect of teratogens on the cell cycle. Click here to view this activity.
The sunburn response and skin cancer: A case study of a malfunction in apoptosis
An online course in which students explore how a malfunction in apoptosis can lead to skin cancer and a promising treatment called Venetoclax. Click here for more information on this resource
Critically evaluating scientific research
An online course in which students are introduced to the key elements that contribute to the validity and reliability of a scientific study. They are guided through an evaluation of one study, then apply their critical evaluation skills to an additional study. Click here to view this resource.
Apoptosis pathways: keeping the balance and removing rogue cells
An online course in which students discover how a malfunction in apoptosis can cause cancer. Students can access this resource by clicking Students > Online courses on the GTAC homepage. Click here to view this resource.
Stories of cell death and malfunctions in apoptosis
An online course in which students explore the need for apoptosis and consider how malfunctions in apoptosis can cause disease. Students explore why it is important in embryonic and foetal development, its role in the female reproductive cycle, how it is necessary to keep cell numbers in balance and its importance to ensure we destroy cells that present a threat to the body. Click here for more information on this resource.
Properties of stem cells and their use in research
Victorian stem cell researchers discuss the properties of stem cells and their role in differentiation, specialisation and renewal of cells and tissues. Learn about their research questions and how they use stem cells in their research. This series of media clips has been developed in collaboration with Stem Cells Australia and the School of Biomedical Science, University of Melbourne. Click here to view this resource.
Introduction to ethics
A series of resources that introduce students to some approaches and basic concepts involved in ethical analysis of a bioethical issue. Students can access the online course featured in this resource by clicking Students > Online courses on the GTAC homepage. Click here to view this resource.
From gum to bum - a journey through the human digestive tract
A series of activities where students research the sections of the human digestive system, act out the function of each section and investigate common malfunctions. Click here to view these activities.
Homeostasis in the blood
A collection of activities in which students explore the insulin-mediated regulation of blood-glucose, classify components of the system within the stimulus-response model and diagnose a malfunction of this pathway for a diabetic patient. Click here to view these activities.
Iron homeostasis
An online course in which students construct a stimulus-response model to represent how you balance iron levels in your body and to investigate and diagnose iron disorders. Students can access this resource by clicking Students > Online courses on the GTAC homepage. Click here to view this course.
Chemical signalling - Insulin
An online course in which students explore how insulin acts on muscle cells to regulate glucose uptake and glucose homeostasis. Students can access this resource by clicking Students > Online courses on the GTAC homepage. Click here to view this course.