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Biology Syllabus

Contents
 RATIONALE

S cience plays a major role in the evolution of knowledge. It empowers us to use creative and
independent approaches to problem-solving. It arouses our natural curiosity and enables us to meet
diverse and ever expanding challenges. It enhances our ability to inquire, seek answers, research and
interpret data. These skills use the scientific method which lead to the construction of theories and
laws that help us to explain natural phenomena and exercise control over our environment. Science
is, thus, an integral component of a balanced education.

The life sciences involve the study of living organisms and their life processes. Biology is at the core of
the life sciences and allows for the examination, investigation and recording of the diverse forms of
life. The study of Biology leads to an understanding and appreciation of the concept of life at all levels
and hence, to a greater respect and reverence for life. The interconnected web of life and the unique
role of the human species are integral to the dynamic nature of the biosphere. Students of Biology
should recognise the enormous responsibility which must be undertaken to ensure the continuity of
life in all its forms. It is incumbent that student use this knowledge to protect, sustain, manage,
conserve and improve the variety of life in the ecosphere. Additionally, the study of Biology prepares
students for careers in biological, agricultural, environmental, medical, paramedical and applied
sciences.

The CAPE® Biology Syllabus is redesigned with a greater emphasis on the application of scientific
concepts and principles. It recognises the need for an understanding of some of the basic principles of
Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics, and, therefore seeks to strengthen the inter-relationship with
these subjects. It also recognises the inter-relatedness among the topics in Biology, and social and
environmental issues. Such an approach is adopted to develop those long-term transferable skills of
ethical conduct, team work, problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation, and communication. It
encourages the use of various student-centred teaching-learning strategies to inculcate the
knowledge and competencies that will prove useful in everyday life, while at the same time catering
to multiple intelligences and different learning styles and needs. It will provide a sound foundation to
pursue the study of Life Sciences and related professions at the post-secondary level.

The most important natural resource in the Caribbean is its people. If the Caribbean is to play an
important role in the new global village and survive economically, a sustained development of the
scientific and technological resources of its people is essential. This syllabus will contribute to the
development of the Ideal Caribbean Person as articulated by the CARICOM Heads of Government in
the following areas: respect for human life and awareness of the importance of living in harmony with
the environment; demonstration of multiple literacies; independent and critical thinking and the
innovative application of science and technology to problem-solving. In keeping with the UNESCO
Pillars of Learning, on completion of the study of this course, students will learn to do, learn to be and
learn to transform themselves and society.

CXC A10/U2/17
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