United States · Common Core State Standards
12th Grade Biology
An intensive exploration of the mechanisms of life from molecular interactions to ecosystem dynamics. Students analyze complex biological systems using evidence based inquiry to understand how life sustains itself and evolves in a changing world.
The Molecular Basis of Life
Investigation into the chemical foundations of biological systems and the specialized functions of cellular organelles.
Analysis of how carbon based molecules provide the structural and functional requirements for living organisms.
Examining the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration as energy transformation systems.
Study of how cells maintain internal environments and communicate through chemical signals.
Information Storage and Transfer
Focus on the mechanisms of heredity, gene expression, and the ethical implications of genetic engineering.
Exploring the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to functional proteins.
Applying mathematical models to predict the distribution of genetic traits in populations.
Evaluating the tools used to manipulate DNA and the societal impact of genetic technologies.
Evolutionary Dynamics
Analyzing the evidence for evolution and the mechanisms that drive the diversification of life on Earth.
Investigating how environmental pressures lead to differential reproductive success.
Synthesizing data from fossils, anatomy, and molecular biology to reconstruct evolutionary history.
Study of the Hardy Weinberg principle and the factors that disrupt genetic equilibrium.
Ecological Interactions
Exploring the complex relationships between organisms and their environments across different scales.
Tracing the movement of matter and energy through trophic levels and biogeochemical cycles.
Modeling population growth and the factors that limit carrying capacity.
Examining symbiotic relationships, succession, and the importance of biological diversity.
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Study of the integrated systems that maintain homeostasis in the human body.
Comparing the rapid response of the nervous system with the long term regulation of the endocrine system.
Investigating the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens and the role of vaccines.
Analyzing the transport of gases and nutrients to sustain cellular metabolism.
Global Health and Sustainability
Synthesizing biological knowledge to address modern challenges in health, environment, and resource management.
Studying the spread of infectious diseases and the biological basis of pandemics.
Strategies for preserving biodiversity and restoring degraded ecosystems.
Reflection on the role of scientists in society and the ethical dilemmas of future research.