1. Cell Structure and Function | Identification of cell organelles, differences between bacterial, animal, and plant cells, functions of mitochondria and chloroplasts, and the role of the cell membrane in substance transport.
2. Enzymes and Digestion | Effects of temperature and pH on enzyme activity, enzyme specificity, digestion of macromolecules like starch and fats, and experimental methods for enzyme activity measurement.
3. Genetics and Evolution | Structure and function of DNA, inheritance patterns using Punnett squares, role of mutations in genetic variation, and the evidence for evolution from fossils and stone tools.
4. Pathogens and Disease | Types of pathogens (bacteria, viruses), transmission of diseases like measles and HIV, immune system defenses, effectiveness of vaccinations, and antibiotic resistance.
5. Health and Lifestyle | Effects of smoking, alcohol, and obesity on health, causes and prevention of cardiovascular disease, interpretation of BMI and waist-to-hip ratio, and factors influencing life expectancy.
6. Selective Breeding and Genetic Engineering | Benefits and risks of genetically modified crops, selective breeding in livestock, advantages of biological control over chemical pesticides, and ethical considerations in genetic manipulation.