Multicellular organisms typically consist of a number of interdependent transport systems that range in complexity and allow the organism to exchange nutrients, gases and wastes between the internal and external environments. Students examine the relationship between these transport systems and compare nutrient and gas requirements.

Inquiry questions

How are cells arranged in a multicellular organism? What is the difference in nutrient and gas requirements between autotrophs and heterotrophs? How does the composition of the transport medium change as it moves around an organism?

Working scientifically skills

In this module, students focus on collecting, processing and analysing data and information to: identify trends, patterns and relationships; solve problems; and communicate ideas about the organisation of living things.

Outcomes

A student:

• develops and evaluates questions and hypotheses for scientific investigation BIO11/12-1
• designs and evaluates investigations in order to obtain primary and secondary data and information BIO11/12-2
• conducts investigations to collect valid and reliable primary and secondary data and information BIO11/12-3
• selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media BIO11/12-4
• analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information BIO11/12-5
• solves scientific problems using primary and secondary data, critical thinking skills and scientific processes BIO11/12-6
• communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose BIO11/12-7
• explains the structure and function of multicellular organisms and describes how the coordinated activities of cells, tissues and organs contribute to macroscopic processes in organisms BIO11-9

While all Working Scientifically outcomes have been presented in this sample unit of work, teacher judgement should be used about which skill descriptors students will be working towards and engaging with.

In the sample unit of work, Working Scientifically outcomes are placed after content descriptors.

Assessment

Informal quizzes, feedback from peers and teachers, self-reflection