RSC Senior School Information Booklet 2022

Science
2022 Senior School Course Information
Genetics & Evolution
Subject Description
The transmission of heritable characteristics from one generation to the next involves DNA and genes. Mutations provide
a source of variation. Scientific evidence supports the theory of evolution by natural selection to explain how populations
have changed over time.
Content Outline
• The relationship between DNA, genes and chromosomes
• How genetic information is inherited
• Meiosis and fertilisation
• Patterns of inheritance
• Predicting the results of crosses involving dominant/recessive gene pairs or in genes that are sex-linked
• Mutations and factors that contribute to causing mutations
• Biotechnology techniques such as gel electrophoresis
• Issues relating to the use of biotechnology
• Processes involved in natural selection including variation, isolation and selection
• Biodiversity as a function of evolution
• Changes caused by natural selection in populations
• Relating genetic characteristics to survival and reproductive rates
• Evaluating and interpreting evidence for evaluation
Assessment
• Practical reports
• Assignments
• Tests
Chemical Reactions
Subject Description
This course examines the atomic structure of elements and how they are organised in the Periodic Table. A variety of
chemical reactions are used to introduce students to the ways of producing chemical products. Factors that effect the rate
of reactions are also investigated.
Content Outline
• Similarities of the properties of elements in the same Group in the Periodic Table
• Structure of atoms in terms of electron shells
• How the electronic structure of an atom determines its position in the Periodic Table and its properties
• Chemical activity of metals
• How chemistry can be used to produce a range of useful substances such as fuels, metals and pharmaceuticals
• Predicting the products of different types of simple chemical reactions
• Factors that affect the rate of chemical reactions
Assessment
• Practical reports
• Assignments
• Tests
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