Resources for teaching VCE Biology Unit 2

GTAC developed the following resources to complement the key knowledge points and key science skills for Unit 2 in VCE Biology Study Design. Many of the resources feature in our Unit 1 & 2 overview Professional Learning events.

Sample timeline for teaching VCE Biology Unit 2

The GTAC team has created a sample timeline for teaching VCE Biology Unit 2 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.

Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH) to identify chromosome abnormalities

GTAC has developed two worksheets that showcase the use of FISH to identify chromosome abnormalities associated with Down Syndrome and Di George Syndrome. Click here to view and download the Down Syndrome worksheet. Click here to view and download the Di Geroge Syndrome worksheet.

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.

Meiosis and oocyte activity

An activity linking the stages of meiosis to the stages in oocyte development. Students place diagrams and descriptions of the meiotic stages in sequence and match that to stages in oocyte development. Click here to view this resource.

Sperm analysis activity

A laboratory practical activity to introduce students to methods of semen and sperm analysis for fertility testing in reproductive technologies. Students also complete a data analysis task to calculate sperm cell number, viability and motility from two patients. Click here to view this resource.

A genetic test for haemochromatosis

An online course in which students explore how gel electrophoresis is used to diagnose hereditary haemochromatosis and analyse a DNA profile to construct a family tree. Click here for more information and to access this resource.

Investigation related to a genetic cross

Students explore the history of corn and use a test cross as an experimental method to determine pedigree. They investigate inheritance patterns for two genes and analyse data on genotypes and phenotypes. Please note this resource was originally designed to meet old curriculum requirements and has been earmarked for redevelopment. Click here to view this resource.

Exploring fertility and assisted reproductive technologies

Two online courses designed to introduce students to issues surrounding fertility and the use of assisted reproductive technologies to support Outcome 3 AOS 3. Click here for more information on this resource.

Application and emerging issues of cloning in agriculture

Students explore the transmission of the genome through asexual reproduction. They then investigate issues that may arise when genetic engineering techniques are used to produce Genetically Modified Organisms. Click here to view this resource.

Desktop ecology and "Biomaths"

An online course in which students collect and use data on four animal species along a model seashore and progress through a series of tasks to present and analyse the data. Click here to view this resource.

Critically evaluating scientific posters

An online course in which students compare and contrast two scientific research posters on the same topic. Students critically evaluate each poster with the help of a scientific poster evaluation tool and make recommendations for improving the study and poster. Click here to view this resource.

Scientific poster templates

GTAC designed scientific poster templates for student investigations. Click here for more information on this resource.